Forward, Design of a Mini-Collection for Women Aged 50+

Abstract

Unlike previous generations, aging American women continue to be active and to purchase new clothing based upon their expressed needs and values. Based on the literature review and interviews of a cohort of women 50+ years, this group can be considered an underrepresented market in the fashion industry. Through the design of four ensembles, the design process is outlined: techniques, procedures, and outcomes of silhouette, color, construction, pattern, fabric/textile, and other details. These innovative design outcomes are related to the needs expressed by the interviewees. This mini-collection of four ensembles, entitled Forward, provides the active aging market with clothing made specifically for females of their age group.

Keywords:

• aging
• identity
• clothes
• design
• gender

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Caroline Albers

Caroline Albers is an independent scholar and an apparel and product designer. Her undergraduate research was completed at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis where she studied Apparel Design. Caroline’s research interests include the dynamic relationship between clothing, identity, and the physical body of underrepresented people. [email protected]