Qiantong Chen

University of Manchester, UK

Title: Bra Pattern Engineering Development for Adolescent Girls

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Biography

Qiantong Chen is a PhD candidate at the University of Manchester, specializing in Textile and Apparel. She holds a Master’s degree in International Fashion Marketing and a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Technology from the University of Manchester. Her doctoral research focuses on developing in pattern engineering for adolescent girls’ bras, combining qualitative research and anthropometric data analysis, aiming to define a methodology to support the engineering of bras for adolescent females.

Abstract

The transition from childhood to adolescence is marked by significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes, specifically in females. During this period, physical development is very complex. In addition, inconsistent sizing systems from different retailers and the lack of consideration for girls' body shape changing add more confusion for adolescent girls when selecting a suitable bra. As a result, the bras sale in the current market do not adequately meet the specific needs of this specific age group. Also, there is limited research has been done on bras’ patterns particularly designed for adolescent girls. Therefore, this research aims to develop methodologies of bra pattern engineering that conforms to the body structure of adolescent females based on Armstrong's bra making theory. Qualitative research, 3D body scanning technology and anthropometric data analysis were employed to develop the bra pattern. The outcomes of this research contribute insights into females’ confusion from selecting bras during puberty. The application of 3D body scanning technology further improves bra fit and comfort in this work. And this research provides new directions and further refinement in designing bras for adolescent girls.