Selected factors influencing wear comfort of clothing: case studies

Abstract

Wear comfort is a fundamental and universal need for consumers and depends on a multitude of factors among which thermo-physiological comfort, skin sensorial comfort and garment construction parameters such as design and fit. This paper discusses three case-studies which demonstrate the importance of the design, fit and fabric finish on wear comfort. The studies involved: a. The application of phase change materials (PCMs) to the fabric used in unisuits for rowers to better maintain their thermal balance during exercise. b. Improving the design of workwear for nursing staff. c. The development of well fitted functional body wear involving moisture regulating fabrics to prevent non-aesthetic sweat stains on shirts and blouses. The results have shown that minor adaptations to the design and fit which is well adjusted to the body shape of the wearer can have a major impact on the thermophysiological and tactile comfort feeling of the wearer. On the other hand, the use of phase change materials had little effect on the skin temperature of the wearer which was in stark contrast with the use of moisture regulating fabrics that indeed largely influence overall comfort sensation of garments. These insights were very valuable to the garment manufacturers which meanwhile have implemented these results into their products. The adapted nursing uniforms were taken into production and enthusiastically welcomed by the end users. Shortly the functional body wear will also come available on the market.

Clothing suggestions based on comfort extracted from physiological and emotional parameters

“…Along with the fabric type (natural or synthetic), clothing fit also determines comfortability. As mentioned earlier, comfortability is the harmony of a human body's psychological, physical and physiological states (Raeve et al, 2018). Comfortability is related to several factors, including skin contact, air and moisture permeability, fit and fabric handle properties (Hooper et al, 2015).…”

“…Consumers also experience interactions between their skin and the clothing material. Therefore, surface roughness or smoothness of clothing can enhance or aggravate sensorial comfort and create an emotional connection to the clothing (Raeve et al, 2018). For example, a soft or smooth surface provides a pleasant experience, while a rough or stiff surface provides an unpleasant experience (Essick et al, 1999).…”

A study on comfort properties of oak Tasar silk waste and acrylic blended fabrics

“…Comfort is the utmost aspect of clothing which is needed foremost by the wearer. Comfort is a perception of well-being in which the human body is in psychological, physiological and physical harmony with the environment where it is situated (Raeve et al, 2018). It is contributed by various factors like garment fit, persons' physiological need, psychological need, fabric construction, yarn construction and fibre properties.…”

“…While this perspiration is transmitted to the atmosphere, the body temperature reduces and then the body feels cool. So the garments should allow the perspiration to pass through, otherwise, it will result in discomfort (Raeve et al 2018).…”

Incorporating convolutions into transformers for textile fiber identification from fabric images

“…With the pursuit of a high quality of life, consumers are increasingly concerned about the comfort and functionality of garments, such as skin-friendliness, wicking properties and sun protection. 1–3 The attributes of apparel are closely associated with the types of raw fibers. 4 , 5 Clothes of 100% cotton have superior softness, moisture absorption and skin-friendliness, yet are prone to wrinkling.…”