There’s a lot of room for improvement when it comes to the accuracy of women’s clothing sizes, and now we know there might be another reason why the information retailers have been using is completely outdated.
A new study published in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology, and Education reveals that the average size of an American women is now between a 16 to 18, which isan increase from 10-year-old data that indicated most women in the U.S. were a size 14.
The study used the measurements of more than 5,500 American women over the age of 20, as well as data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Using this information, scientists determined that the average waist circumference has increased 2.6 inches over the past 21 years,which accounts for the increase in clothing size.
Researchers explained that this updated information is crucial for the fashion industry and for women in general, many of whichhave compared themselves to this inaccurate and misleading information for years.
In conducting the study, the researchers write that they hope “that women may be relieved in knowing the average clothing size worn is larger than [they] thought,” and that it alters the public’s perception of “average” size.
“I am hoping this will help nudge the fashion industry to seriously consider expanding their sizes,” said study author Deborah Christel, Ph.D.
“In light of this overlap in sizing classification, frequent reports of female customers being frustrated about the general fit and sizing of clothing is understandable,” the authors wrote.
So if you find yourself frustrated, you’re not alone, but hopefully the industry will take note and sizable changes will be made.
Read more here: http://twentytwowords.com/
