Clothing for the female crutch user: Case studies of the clothing worn by the middle class American female crutch user

Abstract

The preferred clothing styles, and consideration factors of selected female underarm crutch users were investigated along with the comparison of body measurements between permanent and temporary crutch users. Results indicated permanent crutch users with strong function orientation preferred set-in sleeves, buttoned cuffs, enlarged jewel neckline, shawl collar and bloused silhouette. This was different from the temporary crutch users preference. The measurement difference of the same weight category showed that the proportion of permanent crutch users, with larger upper torso, was different to that of temporary crutch users. Factors for permanent crutch users selection of clothing included function, fit and fabric when evaluating illustrations, and comfort and esthetics were additional factors after trying on the prototypes of their choice. The prototype designs ameliorated the aspect of five subjects.