AHFE Open AccessHuman Factors for Apparel and Textile Engineering
Editors: Gianni Montagna, Cristina Carvalho
Topics: Material and Textile Engineering
Publication Date: 2024
ISBN: 978-1-964867-10-6
DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004908
Articles
Alternative methods for building energy preservation
This article deals with aspects of the thermo-physical efficiency of coarse textile fibers arranged in the form of fibrous layers. The study is based on the need to improve the thermal protection of buildings in the context of sustainable development and to reduce the energy weight of buildings by reducing GHG emissions (H2O, CO2, CH4, CFC, N2O, etc.).At this stage, more and more products for construction are certified and analyzed in terms of embodied energy content and potential impact on the environment. In the current research, the tendency is to return to natural materials, with features similar to those of conventional materials in terms of performance.The advantage of exploiting a huge quantity of wool existing in Romania, currently unused, is the excellent wet-thermal and comfort properties of wool, concerning man and nature, 100% natural raw material, ecological and renewable, with a positive impact on man.By applying the technology specific to non-woven products, textile layers with layer density between 13 - 37 kg/m3 were made from wool with a fineness of 45-55 microns and a length of 150-220 mm. Measured characteristics (time-constant and spatially uniform heat flux) of the layers under different thermal conditions, respectively obtained from mathematical modeling and simulation were provided. Thermal measurements were performed with a complex lab device of the Laboratory of Civil and Environmental Engineering (LGCgE) of the University of Artois, IUT Bethune, France. The installation contains thermostatic baths, Huber 240-CC3, XPS thermal insulation on the samples contour, Kapton guard rings of 5 cm on the flux meters contour, Al, isotherm, warm, upper thermal plate, Tmax; upper dissipative flux meter with temperature sensor, Φsup, Tsup, upper warm plate thermal insulation; sample, computer with specialized software, lower cold plate thermal insulation, data acquisition board, lower dissipative fluxmeter with temperature sensor Φinf, Tinf, Pt 100 thermal reference, Al, lower, isotherm, cold, thermal plate, Tmin and a height adjusting samples system.To analyze the simultaneous influence of the independent parameters textile layer thickness (mm) and temperature (0C) on thermal parameters such as thermal resistance R - [m2K/W]; thermal conductivity λ - [W/(mK)] and the amount of heat stored in the sample Q - [J], an experimental design program using the rotating compound central factorial of order 2 was obtained.The designed matrix contains 13 sets of experimental combinations, 8 of which are distinct and 5 of which are the midpoint, and are made to determine the error value during the experiments. The experimental matrix contains the coded and actual values of X1 - textile layer thickness (mm) and X2 - temperature (0C) in 13 sets of experimental combinations in which the sample was measured. The empirical relationship between the independent process parameters and the obtained properties was obtained using the multiple regression technique. The interaction between the values of the independent variables X1 and X2 is presented as a polynomial equation of order 2, where the resulting value of Y depends on the interaction given by the polynomial equation at certain values of X1 and X2.Starting from the experimental data, the solutions provided by this specialized program led us to obtain models and simulations with very high accuracy. Technological limits and potential of the technology were materialized by correction coefficients (repeatable products under the same technological conditions, approximation of a technological, socio-economic optimum).By using this program, it is found that thermal resistance decreases with increasing layer density and hot plate temperature. The highest thermal resistance value of 2.77 m2 K/W was obtained at a density of 13 kg/m3 and a hot plate temperature of 400C. With increasing layer density (keeping the layer mass in g/m2 constant) the layer thickness decreases. Thus, the layer structure becomes more compact (the number of pores decreases, i.e. the amount of air in the structure decreases) causing the thermal resistance to decrease.
Marian-catalin Grosu, Ioan Hossu, Emilia Visileanu, Flori Breaban, Alexandra Gabriela Ene, Felicia Dondea
Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Advanced materials with infrared camouflage properties
Nowadays, textile materials with a protective role must ensure the body's defence against a multitude of threats and fulfil a variety of functional requirements. In particular, textile products intended for military applications require durability, resistance to ballistic threats and environmental conditions (eg, ultraviolet (UV) light, moisture, fire, heat and wind), comfort, etc. In addition, these materials must provide camouflage in various ambient conditions at a wide range of wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum such as the near-infrared (NIR) region (750–1200 nm) and far infrared (FIR) (3–5 and 8–14 μm).For the experiments, 3 types of yarns were used with a length density of 49.35 x 1 (20.26 /1) Tex (Nm) - 100% cotton yarn, 19.64 x 2 (50.92 / 2) Tex (Nm) - 100% PA yarn and 20.38 x 2 (49.07 /2) Tex (Nm) - 100% PES yarn. Textile structures in plain weave and ripstop weave (Rips I and Rips II) characterized by tear and abrasion resistance were designed and produced on the STB 2-212 weaving machine. After the finishing operation, the 100% cotton textile structure was treated by impregnation with 70 g/l ITOBINDER AG or 70 g/l PERMUTEX after alkaline boiling phases (8 ml/l caustic soda 38 0 Be, 3 g/l carbonic soda, 3 g/l trisodium phosphate, 2 g/l Kemapon PC/LF; 1,5 ml/l Seghion PC/LF), 4 washes, acidulation: 1 ml/l acetic acid (15 min), rinsing, free drying. The Rips I and Rips II variants have been film-coated on one side by scraping with acrylate paste. The printing samples were made by screen printing technology using water-based inks of the NEWTEX TRANSPARENT HD 10 type and Chromatex HD-10 pigments on automatic machines - carousel type, multi-colour, intermediate drying, Alfa Plus. Reflectance indices and curves were determined using a Perkin Elmer Lambda 950 UV-VIS-NIR Spectrophotometer in the wavelength ranges 860-1200 nm and 1000-1200 nm.To characterize the variability of the reflectivity index of 100% cotton textile structures, Rips I and Rips II, specific descriptive statistical methods were used. Histogram and box-plot graphs were plotted.Assessment of colour difference was carried out after light fastness, alkaline sweat, acid sweat, water and wash tests for the predominant colours of the camouflage colour printed fabric variants. The lightfastness test was performed after 100 hours of exposure on the XENOTEST APOLLO JAMES HEAL machine and colour differences were identified on the HunterLab machine. K/S and reflectance/transmittance (R/T) remission curves were drawn. L*, a*, b* parameters were calculated and interpreted in comparison with the control variants and the colours were fitted into trigonometric quadrants after each resistance test.The colour combination for the samples was made using Optitex pattern design and 3D simulation software (Gina 1 and Gina 2). The determination of the average reflectance was carried out by applying a specific procedure. The following were identified: colour designator, range of colour reflectance, the proportion of area covered by colour in the investigated area, the area covered by colour in the investigated area. To assess the degree of reflectance of each colour in the whole spectral band (860-1200) the median values were calculated.Regression coefficients have been calculated allowing the calculation of the reflectance index at any wavelength in the measured range. In the wavelength range 860-1200 nm all colours in the Gina 1 and Gina 2 structure show reflectance indices between -2.82% (black colour - Gina 2) and 57.68% (green colour - Gina 2). The exception is the beige colour with 92.36% (Gina 1) and 76.49% (Gina 2). In the wavelength range 1000-1200 nm, only the beige colour shows reflectance values >70%, respectively: 89.98% (Gina 1) and 74.25% (Gina 2).The weighted average values of the total reflectance index as a function of the weight of colours in the structures are very good with values <70%, respectively: 35.62% (Gina 1) and 31.48% (Gina 2) in the wavelength range 860-1200 nm and 35.30% (Gina 1) and 32.70% (Gina 2) in the wavelength range 1000-1200 nm.
Emilia Visileanu, Elena Perdum, Laurentiu Dinca, Adrian Salistean, Felicia Dondea, Razvan Scarlat
Open Access
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Conference Proceedings
Fashion design combining agar bioplastics with other materials
This study aimed to utilize agar-based bioplastics derived from natural sources, in conjunction with fabrics such as denim, to pioneer new avenues in fashion design and textile creation. Specifically, the production of fashion items using agar bioplastics was explored. Further, on the basis of the findings and insights acquired research through design, experimental fabrication of textile samples was conducted by amalgamating bioplastics with ten different types of fabric. The experiments revealed texture variations depending on the fabric used, indicating the potential for novel texture expression through the combination of agar bioplastics and fabrics. However, it was also found that the application of agar bioplastics as a fabric coating could produce several similar textures. Although agar bioplastics are biodegradable, the fabric also contains non-biodegradable materials therefore, the development of processing and recycling methods for agar bioplastics must constitute a major area of concern for future research.
Yutaro Kori
Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Interaction of material design elements for improved human tactile comfort
When it comes to textiles and clothing, human comfort is usually seen as a fundamental need for clothing wearers. This study focuses on the segment of the tactile comfort of textiles. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of material engineering (in terms of different compositional and structural designs of materials used in the manufacture of sportswear) on human perception of the tactile properties of materials. In this study, the focus was placed on the bipolar attributes roughness-smoothness (S-R), which were evaluated by a group of volunteers. For the purpose of evaluation, a set of adequate sportswear materials were selected. The selection of materials was based on the criteria of representativeness (the materials must be representative of the sportswear manufacture), and diversity of yarns (use of different yarns such as standard and recycled polyester, addition of elastane component into the structure to improve the comfort and garment fit). In order to be able to compare the outcomes of the material evaluation conducted by recruited evaluators, additional instrumental measurements were carried out and placed in the context of the subjective results. A roughness tester was used for this part of the measurement. According to the results, the difference between the designed materials in terms of the observed attributes is significant. This leads to the conclusion that the selection of an unsuitable material from the group of investigated materials should lead to an unsatisfactory comfort level and possibly to a less successful performance of an athlete.
Ivana Salopek Čubrić, Goran Čubrić, Laure Maurice
Open Access
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Conference Proceedings
Integrating Tradition with Modernity: Transformation of Tang Dynasty Aesthetics in Contemporary Costume Design Through Dunhuang Mural Inspirations
This study delves into the aesthetic elements of clothing in China's Dunhuang murals from the Tang Dynasty, aiming to understand their transformation and inheritance in contemporary costume design. It seeks to reveal the integration of traditional culture with modern fashion, emphasizing the fusion of ancient and modern aesthetics and its impact on the contemporary costume industry. The methodology involves analyzing Tang Dynasty costume characteristics as portrayed in Dunhuang murals, focusing on aspects like smooth lines, simplicity, and color coordination. It then examines how these aesthetics are transformed and inherited in current costume trends, highlighting the innovative integration of classical Tang elements into modern designs. The findings indicate that this creative blend leads to fashionable attire that resonates with both classical and contemporary tastes, diversifying design styles and revitalizing the clothing industry. Conclusively, the study underscores the significant influence of Tang Dynasty aesthetics on contemporary dress culture. The adaptation and modern reinterpretation of Tang attire not only enrich the contemporary clothing market but also deepen the appreciation of traditional Chinese culture. This research offers fresh insights into cultural inheritance and innovation, advocating for China's contemporary costume design to exhibit its unique allure globally, thus facilitating the spread and exchange of Chinese culture in today's interconnected world.
Yunfan Zhang, Eakachat Joneurairatana
Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Comprehensive Analysis of Body Shapes in the Indian Male Population: A National and Regional Study
The product creation process in India relies on imported anthropometric data from other nations, posing a major challenge for Indian consumers who desire tailored things that cater to their distinct physical attributes. Indian shoppers sometimes face difficulties in finding well-fitting garments due to the limited availability of comprehensive information on Indian body types and sizes. This issue is especially prevalent in the textile industry. The gravity of this situation is underscored by recent calculations indicating that apparel returns constitute a substantial 20% to 40% of sales, a trend that is exacerbated by the growing e-commerce sector.In response to the pressing need, a comprehensive statewide anthropometric survey was conducted using state-of-the-art 3D whole-body scanning technology. Conducted on a significant scale, this study encompassed a cohort of more than 13,000 male volunteers (total scanned subjects 13279 and valid subjects 12546), aged 15 to 70. The selection process was meticulous, ensuring representation from all six geographical regions of India. The collected data was methodically grouped into clusters, resulting in the categorization of body shapes on both a regional and national level. This classification technique was established based on accurate measurements of height and significant girth dimensions, specifically focusing on the waist, hip, upper hip, and chest girths.The three most frequent body types among Indian men, according to this indigenous survey, are the rectangle, the inverted trapezoid, and the trapezoid. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of body shapes at the regional level was conducted and compared to the shape clusters seen at the national level. The fundamental body structure groupings among Indian males were discovered to be in line with the national groupings, notwithstanding regional differences. The three primary male body forms were present in all the regions, however there were disparities in how common these shapes were. This ground-breaking study underscores how crucial it is to take regional variances in product sizing and design into account in order to appropriately serve the diversified Indian population.
Manoj Tiwari, Noopur Anand
Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Comprehensive Analysis of Body Shapes in the Indian Female Population: A National and Regional Study
India relies on anthropometric data sourced from foreign nations to develop products, resulting in a formidable challenge for Indian consumers in their quest for products tailored to their specific bodily attributes. The garment industry, in particular, grapples with this issue, where Indian consumers must often compromise on the fit of clothing due to the absence of comprehensive databases pertaining to Indian body shapes and sizes. Recent reports underscore the gravity of this situation, revealing that garment returns account for a substantial 20% to 40% of sales, a trend exacerbated by the burgeoning e-commerce sector.In response to this pressing need, a nationwide anthropometric survey was meticulously conducted, leveraging state-of-the-art 3D whole-body scanning technology. This extensive study encompassed a cohort of more than 13,000 female volunteers (total subjects scanned 13045 and valid subjects 12492), aged 15 to 70, meticulously selected to represent all states across India's six distinct geographic regions. Systematically, the data collected was subjected to clustering, resulting in the categorization of body shapes, both at the regional and national levels. This classification process was anchored in robust measurements of height and key girth dimensions, with a specific focus on Bust, waist, hip, and upper hip girths. This indigenous research unveiled the four most prevalent body shapes among Indian females: Hourglass, Rectangle, Trapezoid, and Bottom hourglass. Furthermore, a comprehensive regional analysis of body shapes was conducted, and it was found that while regional variations existed, the fundamental body shape clusters among Indian females remained consistent with the national clusters. The regions displayed the same four primary body shapes for females, with variations in the prevalence of these identified shapes. This groundbreaking study underscores the necessity of considering regional variations in product design and sizing to cater to the diverse Indian population accurately.
Manoj Tiwari, Noopur Anand
Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Seasonal variations in the comfortable bedroom temperature at the time of waking
In Japan, many women complain of coldness, and suggestions for addressing the problem are needed. This study derived a comfortable waking room temperature based on bedroom and outdoor temperatures during waking hours and the associated thermal sensations, which were measured over a period of 16 months for a participant who experienced strong coldness. The basal body temperature remained biphasic but varied seasonally. In addition, the thermal sensations changed during the year. From winter to summer, the participant did not report being comfortable unless the bedroom temperature reached 21.4 °C, whereas from summer to winter, the comfortable temperature threshold was 17.3 °C. The bedroom had a desirable temperature of 20 °C without adjustment in November and a comfortable enough temperature of 18 °C in December and April and 17 °C in January to March. In summer, bedroom temperatures of 24 °C (reduced by 2.5 °C) in July and 26 °C (reduced by 1 °C) in August would be sufficient for the body to acclimatize to the heat.
Tamaki Mitsuno, Mayuko Yoshimura
Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Design and Development of Large Language Model Applied to Fashion Analysis
Consumer preferences and intense market competition are characterized by dynamic due to the rapidly evolving fashion industry. However, existing trend analysis tools do not fully exploit large datasets, resulting in a lack of precision and timeliness in trend prediction, and often fail to grasp the complex nuances specific to the fashion sector. To address this research gap, this study aims to develop a cutting-edge, AI-driven model for fashion trend analysis and prediction, leveraging the power of big data and advanced machine learning technologies. A mixed method of qualitative and quantitative methods was conducted in this study. To be specific, the latest fashion trend data from WGSN including terncolor trends, fabrics and materials, and market analysis were used to collect data. These data were undergone thorough cleaning and preprocessing using NLTK. After that, the LLAMA2-7B model was selected for pre-training, which was then fine-tuned using LORA technology. Finally,the performance evaluation of the model was rigorously evaluated using an independent test set. Metrics including accuracy, recall, and F1 score were computed to assess the model's effectiveness. In addition, a manual evaluation was conducted, focusing on the specific analytical requirements of the fashion domain to ensure the model's validity and applicability. Furthermore, a user-friendly interface was developed, enabling both technical and non-technical users to easily utilize the model for fashion trend analysis and prediction. This study not only enhances the accuracy and efficiency of trend analysis and prediction but also offers valuable market insights and decision-making support for fashion designers, brand managers, and retailers. This advancement marks a substantial step forward in data analysis and prediction methodologies within the fashion industry, paving the way for new perspectives and approaches in future trend analysis and market strategy formulation.
Yiming Fan, Yinan Wang
Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Reinterpretation of brand fashion archives. Recombining materials and techniques for new applications
The Textile Industry is one of the sectors with the highest environmental impact in the European Union, both in terms of raw material use and gas emissions. Currently, only 1% of textiles are recycled due to the presence of hazardous substances that hinder high-quality recycling, resulting in the contamination of ecosystems. However, efforts are underway to improve the situation through the implementation of collection infrastructure for pre-consumer and post-consumer textile fractions and investments in plant modernization, Textile Hubs (Waste Framework Directive Revision, 2023). European Fashion recommendations (EU Strategy for Circular Textiles, 2022), call for the adoption of circular and sustainable processes to reduce impacts of overproduction and change consumption patterns (UN SDG's Agenda 2030). The Beta generation faces challenges as resource scarcity and Artificial Intelligence impact that affect every aspect of daily life. In a context of multiple realities, there is a growing interest in combining material experiences with virtual ones. The phenomenon of decluttering in fashion promotes a new vision of the wardrobe (Sharpe, 2022), encouraging upcycling and regeneration practices in the domestic context. The vintage fashion trend and revival of styles and techniques of the past can extend to fashion archives. These plays a key role in preserving historical memory and understanding fashion as an artistic and cultural expression. This is reflected in Cluster 2 - Horizon Europe program (2023-2024), which funds research and promotes better access to European cultural heritage and cultural and creative industries. The laboratorial experience of the Fashion Eco Design 2 and Textile Design courses, proposes new models of upcycling in line with European goals and recommendations. They focus on textile materials through hybrid prototyping systems and experiment with theoretical, practical, and speculative approaches by investigating processes of design for circularity and reassembly (Potting, 2017). The aim of the courses is to design tailored and multifunctional solutions from the archives investigated. The paper illustrates the approach from research to analysis of stylistic elements, materials, fabric patterns, and pattern making, so transferred to the contemporary through design-driven recombination system. The approach sets up a system of relationships by innovating links between past and present, manufacturing traditions, digital technologies, and artificial intelligence, by renewing the cultural and productive heritage of a brand that meets new trends. The revival of the Gutteridge 1878 brand archive enables co-creation processes by merging research, experimentation, and the use of innovative methodologies and technologies to create new, more current values. It promotes the integration of university education, communities of practice, united in the design, communication and dissemination of research results according to the Quadruple Helix model. The critical and evolutionary thinking that guides student projects outline new models of value creation, promoting an adaptive regeneration approach, establishing cooperation between artificial systems, machines and materials (Sbordone, 2023).
Maria Antonietta SBORDONE, Ilenia Amato, Martina Orlacchio, Angelo Rega, Sara De Toro
Open Access
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Conference Proceedings
Second-hand fashion and its impact on business sustainability
The aim of this study was to examine the beliefs that influence the predisposition to buy second-hand clothes. The methodology had a quantitative approach, through the collection of data via an online survey, which were analyzed using the PLS algorithm and the bootstrapping technique for structural equations. The influence of consumers' environmental beliefs, willingness to spend and beliefs on attitudes towards second-hand fashion was assessed. The results indicate that attitude towards second-hand fashion has a mediating effect between beliefs and intention to purchase second-hand clothing; moreover, environment and willingness to spend have a positive and significant effect on attitude towards second-hand fashion.
Alejandra Torres Jaramiilo, Juan Manuel Maldonado-Matute, Ana Armijos, María José González Calle, María Isabel Arteaga Ortíz, Pedro Fernando Guerreo Maxi
Open Access
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Conference Proceedings
Kimono design and color scheme proposal using image-generating AI technology
The kimono market has shrunk by about a tenth in 40 years. While demand is decreasing, there is an equal or even more significant shortage of companies and workers, so some existing companies face a greater burden in production than before. Some kimono OEM productions in Nishijin, a part of Kyoto in Japan famous for kimono textiles, have more customers as the number of competitors in the same business is decreasing. This has made it difficult to propose differentiated designs for each customer. In particular, the content of the customer's order is often expressed only in words and abstract expressions, making it difficult to determine the design. In addition, it is usually necessary to consider multiple color schemes for each design. These processes must be carried out by a limited number of people within the company and in a short period. Given the current situation, we believe ‘streamlining the design process’ is necessary in the kimono industry. On the other hand, the technological development of image-generating AI is accelerating rapidly and attracting great social interest. The rapid development of image-generating AI technology is expected to improve the productivity of various operations in various industries. Therefore, this study investigated and verified the possibility of using image-generating AI in the kimono design process. In the experiment, AI was used to generate images using texts as input values, and it was examined whether the design and color scheme of the images matched human impressions. Under the current experimental environment, it was found that the AI-generated images and human impressions were close in terms of country/region with a high degree of accuracy. The color analysis showed that the color of the AI-generated images was comparable to that of human impressions for both the country/region and the adjective word. This suggested the possibility of using image-generating AIs to support the kimono coloring process.
Saori Kitaguchi, Shintaro Kato
Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Exploring Lower Body Asymmetry in Female Fencers: Implications for Enhanced Legging Design and Performance
Fencing is a sport that places unique demands on the body due to its asymmetrical movements. As a result of long-term training, the body shapes of female fencers can differ from those of non-athlete women, leading to specific requirements for sportswear design. However, there is a lack of research focusing on the anthropometry of female fencers and their lower limb asymmetry, particularly in comparison with non-athlete females. This study aims to fill this research gap by examining and analyzing the body shapes of female fencers and non-athlete women using three-dimensional scanning technology. To achieve this goal, seven professional fencers and eight non-athlete women were invited to participate in a scanning experiment in a standard "A" pose. Cross-sectional circumferences of the lower body at eight separate positions were computed and compared between the left and right side, as well as between fencers and non-athletes. In addition, the performances of three commercial leggings were evaluated for fencers. The results revealed a clear asymmetry in the fencers' bodies. This finding could provide valuable insights into the physical attributes that contribute to the unique requirements for legging design, potentially enhancing the performance of fencers. Further research in this area could lead to the development of more effective and comfortable sportswear for fencers, ultimately improving their performance and reducing the risk of injury.
Ruixin Liang, Frances Wan, Xiaolu Li, Jun Zhang, Joanne Yip
Open Access
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Conference Proceedings
Garment Fit Evaluation via Customer Feedback on Daily Wear
The apparel manufacturing sector is progressively employing virtual prototype demos to optimize the pre-production phase and augment correspondence with relevant parties. Connecting consumer demands with accessible sizes is still difficult, though. This paper suggests a methodology that uses natural language programming to understand customers' practical requirements through customer interactions. Customer perceptions can be incorporated into the research process to obtain important insights into the preferences of the target audience and guarantee that the clothing fulfils their expectations. This methodology facilitates precise evaluation of clothing fit, enhances client contentment, and pinpoints opportunities for enhancement. Customers' participation in research also fosters inclusivity and diversity in terms of body shapes and preferences. Through the integration of client feedback, brands can develop customized products that cultivate brand loyalty and enduring partnerships. The study used sentiment analysis and self-observation to gather extensive data for a virtual model of predicted clothing fit. The results emphasize the value of body positivity, self-acceptance, and a broad definition of beauty. Brands may challenge conventional beauty norms and increase customer happiness and confidence by providing a variety of sizes and styles. The study gathered information on factors pertaining to self-perception, personal preferences, and the assessment of garment fit. Correlations between the perception of body form and size and the choice of clothing were found using a logistic regression model. The findings offer insightful information that helps companies customize their offerings and marketing plans, outperform rivals, and retain a devoted clientele.
Nga Yin Dik, Wai Kei Tsang, Ah Pun Chan, Kwan Yu Lo
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An investigation of garment construction and textile properties in enhancing the plus-size shapewear bra effectiveness
This study aims to develop an initial design concept to enhance the contouring function of a plus-size shaping bra by investigating significant design features, garment construction, and textile characteristics. The golden ratio theory of the female breast is employed as a reference for evaluating the contouring effectiveness of the plus-size shapewear bra. This evaluation was conducted by collecting visual and numerical data from a 3D body scanner. Additionally, this study investigated perceived comfort in terms of thermal and pressure aspects to establish the correlation between garment construction and wearing comfort. In the experiment, two female subjects with 80D cup sizes were invited to evaluate four plus-size shapewear bras with varying design features. Qualitative and quantitative feedback is gathered through questionnaire and wear trials. The results indicate that a shorter shoulder strap distance, cross-back strap position, and bra cup construction are ideal for supporting and distributing the breast load. Moreover, the stretchability of fabric is found to be correlated with enhancing the contouring function by applying proper garment pressure. Evaluating the thermal comfort of garment is the secondary objective to provide insights into the overall perceived comfort of plus-size shapewear bras available in the market. These results could serve as a valuable reference for advancing bra design for plus-size females and offer potential avenues for further development.
Hiu Tung Yu, Pak Yiu Liu, Ka Po Lee, Xiaolu Li, Joanne Yip
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