Elderly women's clothing: acquisition,fit and alterations of ready-to-wear garments

The major objective of this research was to determine the clothing needs of elderly women. An interview schedule was developed to elicit information about specific clothing needs, including acquisition, fitting problems and garment alterations. Data were obtained from 150 women residing in northern Colorado. The subjects were grouped into three age categories: 30–64, 65–74, and 75 and over. Findings indicated that most women purchased ready-to-wear garments which sometimes required alterations. The most frequent alteration needed was shortening the skirt length. It was noted that with increasing age, women became less aware of needed alterations for proper fit. Elderly women did not perceive a need for garment alterations if they thought the garment was attractive and felt comfortable.