The purpose of this research was to determine women's preferences for either imported or domestic blouses. A questionnaire was distributed to two groups: 114 students at The University of Alabama and 104 women in Tuscaloosa women's clubs. Information was obtained to: determine proportionate numbers of women's imported and domestic blouses purchased by the consumers, iden tify reasons for the consumers' purchases of either imported or domestic blouses, and examine relationships between socioeconomic factors and con sumer preferences for imported or domestic blouses. Data analysis included frequency distributions and cross tabulation procedures. A chi square was com puted on the appropriate variables to test relationships. Most of the blouses pur chased by students were imported, while most of those purchased by club women were domestic made. The purchase motive indicated most frequently by both groups were: color coordination with existing wardrobe, unusual detail (trim, styling, etc.), and attractive price. No significant relationships were found when the proportions of imported or domestic blouses purchased were cross‐tab ulated with age and income categories. The fact that consumers in this study purchased blouses for the same reasons, regardless of where they were pro duced, indicates a need for the U.S. textile and apparel industry to become more competitive in the global market.

The reduction of energy costs related to heating homes is a concern of consumers. Interior designers are challenged to help their clients solve this problem in creative and aesthetically pleasing ways. It is important for designers to know what steps clients have taken to make homes more energy efficient. Such knowledge can provide a basis for interior design solutions which may not have been considered by clients. A random survey of 445 Alabama households showed the majority of homes were heated by either natural gas or electricity. Supplementary heat was used by one‐third of the residents and one‐third had added insulation. The most common method of conserving energy was to reduce thermostat settings. It was concluded that many clients have taken basic steps toward conserving energy. To realize additional savings professional knowledge of interior designers will be required.