Date of Award

12-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master Art in Fashion Business and Entrepreneurship

Department

Fashion Business

First Advisor

Dr. Chajuana Trawick

Second Advisor

Shevare' Perry

Third Advisor

Ameli Skoglund

Abstract

This study explored the plus􀂱size apparel fit and the satisfaction of the plus􀂱size women in the United States. According to researchers, there is a well-known gap for apparel grading when it comes to plus-size apparel. This study took a qualitative approach and used structured interviews and surveys with twenty plus-size women size 16 through 22 and ages ranging from 22 through 50 in the Midwest area. The results of the interviews and the survey indicate the plus-size woman is unsatisfied with the fit of their clothing, more specifically the fit of their pants. The results indicate there are many variants that can cause the fit of a garment not to fit as intended. In this industry, advancement of apparel mass production to include mass customization is imperative. The research questions this researcher intended to answer were:

  • What is the current plus-size apparel dissatisfaction for the top three body shapes?
  • What pattern shape changes should be made on plus-size pants?
  • Can we achieve a good fit with the traditional grading? In theory, does it make sense to create a grade rule for various body shapes?
  • For mass customization, should plus-size apparel align with menswear techniques?

Comments

Copyright 2021, Lenora Brown.

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