Design and Product Development

Sewing for My Curves: Insights Into Plus-Sized Garment Fit Dissatisfaction

Authors: Addie K Martindale (Georgia Southern University) , Ellen Carol McKinney (Iowa State University)

Abstract

With the average American woman now wearing a size 16 (Christel & Dunn, 2016) it is pertinent to better understand the garment fit needs of the plus-size segment. this qualitative netnographic study explored the common sewing pattern alterations made by plus size sewing bloggers to better understand plus size women's garment fit issues. Revealed by this study was the most common garment fit issues concerned the bust, bicep, shoulders, and lower back. As sewing patterns and ready-to-wear production patterns use the same proportions and grading procedures this understanding of common garment fit issues provides and academia a better understanding of how plus-size apparel design needs to improve.

Keywords: patternmaking, Plus Size, fit, Dissatisfaction

How to Cite: Martindale, A. K. & McKinney, E. C. (2019) “Sewing for My Curves: Insights Into Plus-Sized Garment Fit Dissatisfaction”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings. 76(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.8466