부산대학교 도서관

This study aims to provide basic information on the changes in lower body measurements and shapes of women in their 20s for developing better fitting slacks patterns and a more applicable sizing system that can be widely utilized for women of all ages. Factor and cluster analysis were performed on 1,360 women’s direct measurement data within the age group from the 5th (2004) and 7th (2015) Korean Human Body Measurement Investigation. The factor analysis identified four factors and explained 82.54% of the total variance; Factor 1, horizontal measurements of lower body; Factor 2, vertical lengths of lower body; Factor 3, measurements of leg and hip areas; Factor 4, lengths of hip and crotch areas. The cluster analysis categorized the lower body shapes of each age group into four shapes; Shape 1, a petite lower body with short legs; Shape 2, a long lower body with medium built; Shape 3, an obese abdomen and legs; Shape 4, a short and slim lower body. Shape 4 (36.5%), Shape 2 (31.2%), Shape 1 (27.8%), and Shape 3 (4.5%) were placed in the order of frequency from the highest to lowest among all the age groups. The findings of this study showed gradual changes in the lower body measurements and shapes of women in their 20s and relevant physical features of each age group. They can be utilized for developing women’s slacks patterns with better fitting and more comfort.