Design and Product Development

Application of Posture in Product Design of Apparel

Authors: Carol McDonald (Gneiss Concept) , Katy Alden Schildmeyer (IEEE P3141) , Tunmin (Catherine) Jai (Texas Tech University)

Abstract

Posture is essential to the proper production design of apparel, especially as the industry is trying to be more inclusive (Labat & Ryan, 2019; McDonald et al., 2024). Understanding posture is important to more inclusive design and designing properly fitting garments for everyone. Since proper posture is crucial for fit, comfort, appearance, and health, garments designed with posture in mind can enhance comfort and reduce physical strain, especially for individuals in demanding occupations. McDonald et al. (2024) outline the ‘PARCS’ principle, which defines posture through five key descriptors: Placement, Alignment, Rotation, Curvature, and Symmetry. In this concept paper, the authors propose several research questions aimed at exploring posture differences across populations and enhancing industry knowledge regarding adaptive apparel design.

Keywords: posture, adaptive apparel, apparel design, PARCS, fitting, placement, alignment, rotation, curvature, symmetry

How to Cite: McDonald, C. , Schildmeyer, K. A. & Jai, T. (. (2025) “Application of Posture in Product Design of Apparel”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings. 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18908