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Textile and Apparel Industries

Body Shape Profiles of Overweight and Obese Women: Exploring Weight Perception and Apparel Shopping Behaviors

Authors
  • Uikyung Jung
  • Stephanie Gonzalez (University of Central Oklahoma)

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between body shape profiles, weight perception, and apparel shopping behaviors among overweight and obese women using data from the SizeUSA national sizing survey. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) identified four distinct body shape profiles based on vertical, upper body horizontal, lower body horizontal, and torso length measurements. While body shape profiles did not significantly influence weight perception, the latent body dimension factors within each profile were positively correlated with self-perceived weight. Body shape profiles significantly impacted department store and running shoe preferences, with pear-shaped individuals showing a stronger inclination toward these purchases. Weight perception emerged as a stronger predictor of shopping preferences compared to objective body shape profiles. These findings highlight the importance of addressing both physical and psychological factors in tailoring marketing strategies and product offerings to better serve plus-size consumers.

Keywords: Latent Profile Analysis, Plus-size women, Weight Perception, Apparel Shopping

How to Cite:

Jung, U. & Gonzalez, S., (2025) “Body Shape Profiles of Overweight and Obese Women: Exploring Weight Perception and Apparel Shopping Behaviors”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18917

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Published on
2025-01-20

Peer Reviewed