Women consumers consider fit to be a crucial factor when making their clothing purchase decisions. This is because women make their purchasing decisions based not only on whether the clothing is fashionable but also on how it fits. While clothing styles are important, the most critical factor is the proper fit according to a person’s physique.
Fitting is a crucial factor for buyers when making a purchase decision. Most ready-to-wear garments have some fit issues. The fit of the garment is also important to consumers when making their purchasing decisions. Clothing styles are important, but the most critical factor is the proper fit according to the body structure of the individual. The garments are said to fit properly when they do not have any extreme fullness or pull lines while being worn. Also, the correct placement of darts, seams, or grainlines is important. The type of garment determines the importance of a proper fit. In the case of contoured dress, minor fit issues will be visible. However, with loose-fitted clothing, an exact fitting is not necessary as it does not make a difference. If the fit of the garment is not correct, it doesn’t matter if you have high-quality fabrics and superb craftsmanship.
Fitting issues affect not only the customer but also the manufacturers and retailers of ready-made clothing. It may seem like a small problem. The retailer’s expenses are inflated by the costs of returns, dissatisfaction with brands, and the extra time spent in the trial room. Fit is often the deciding factor in whether a garment will be purchased. In addition to the visual appeal, well-fitted clothing is also preferred for its comfort. Most people tend to keep clothes that don’t fit well in the back of their closets.
Plus-size fashion poses a challenge to manufacturers since it requires a change in proportions for a perfect fit for all sizes. The evaluation of fit is not based on the development of patterns or the ready-to-wear measures.
The human body doesn’t scale up the same way, so scaling up for plus sizes is not possible. The differences between straight-size and plus-size body types and variations within plus-size bodies are not taken into account. These garments were not designed with love handles and bellies in mind. Even though maternity clothing includes these features, it’s often the only choice for plus-size consumers. It may not have room for a larger tummy or plumper arms. In some areas, things will be loose, but in other places, they may be tight.
Each garment manufacturer has a specific target segment, with demographic characteristics that define the consumer profile. The manufacturer will spend a lot of money in order to achieve the perfect fit and dimensions. Manufacturers can benefit from the best range of sizes. To implement this, many companies use advanced strategies and technologies for device sizing categories and systems. To solve the sizing issue, you can use:
Data collection on demographics: An interview with a representative sample of the target population will provide information about age, ethnicity, and body type. The model must be carefully selected, as any deviation could have a domino effect. To understand the variation and range of sizes, statistical tools can be used. Currently, more and more companies are using 3D scanning and automation technologies. These tools are a cost-effective and efficient way for manufacturers to collect data. Only a small number of manufacturers consider demographics, lifestyle, and socio-economic data when determining sizing.
Different stakeholders within the supply chain may have different perceptions of what constitutes a good fit. Designers may have a theory on which size will best match a certain body measurement to create a flawless look. The patternmakers will try to keep the same eye across a variety of sizes. The consumer’s perceptions and preferences about sizes and styles can also give them an improved look. The effectiveness of the sizing systems is dependent on the skill of patternmakers and graders. The patternmakers and graders must identify, define, and produce the appropriate type of fit for the target audience. This can be done using body scanners, market research, wear testing, and virtual fit assessments.
Clothing design and style: Each style is designed to be able to accommodate a variety of body types. Certain techniques, such as baggy fits, work with many body types. Stretchable fabrics can also be used to make garments that fit a wide range of bodies.
Size labels: It is important to provide information about the sizes of clothing. Many consumers ask for clarification on measures. The labels do not correspond to the body measurements. They try out different sizes of the product. This is because there are no standardized sizes for all manufacturers. Manufacturers use terms like slim, classic, and relaxed fit to eliminate this problem. The problem is more complicated for women’s clothing. Womenswear labels are often a series of numbers that do not relate to the dimensions of the body or clothing. Menswear labels are usually based on body measurements.
Size criteria: Every brand, before producing ready-made clothing in large quantities, checks and identifies what the consumer needs. Sizing and fit are also important. Manufacturers are divided on how to label the sizes of garments. Customers can also provide valuable insights into this process.
Plus-size clothing: The designers have a difficult time designing plus-size clothes. It is necessary to take into account the change in proportions so that the garment can fit a larger range of sizes. Comparing garment measurements with values from measurement tables for ready-to-wear does not always allow a judgment on how well the fit is for intended target groups.
Hohenstein Institute, Germany, conducted fitting tests with a test group of 250 people of various ages and types of body. The sample provided body measurements that matched those of the target group. Data collected in this way provided information on the body type and dress size that needed to be tested. The test subjects were matched to the appropriate age group or body type. This enabled clothing for 60-year-olds or plus sizes to be tested. Stephanie Muller is an expert at fitting tests and works with manufacturers. Muller’s team collaborated with manufacturers to create more accurate body measurement tables. This allows them to help make loyal customers who will buy their wardrobes from the same brand.
Muller says that the only way she can solve fitting issues and improve customer satisfaction is to focus on people rather than dumbasses. She says that “in reality, whether a person perceives a clothing as having a good fit depends on the way it feels and looks on their body.”