Design Criteria and Construction of Functional Apparel for Event Decorators in Lafia, Nigeria

The objective of this study was to determine design criteria and construct the functional apparel for event decorators. The study was carried out in Lafia, Nigeria. Population of the study comprised 102 decorators. Simple random sampling techniques was used to sample 50 decorators for the study. The instruments for data collection were the Body measurement chart (BMC), functional apparel need assessment chart (FANAC) and the Judges assessment form (JAF). Four specific objectives guided the study. Frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations were used for data analysis. Findings revealed six major apparel needs for decorators’ functional apparel to include-stress reduction, safety in the work place, for group identification, for job effectiveness, for protection, for uniqueness and self-esteem. the study identified four functions performed by interior decorators in the study area, which include decorating the venue, discussing/meetings with clients, determining decor requirements and performing basic first aid emergency. Among the instrument/tools required in their operations, event decorators are always in need of scissors, tape, office pin, hammer, fabric, nails, thumb pin, ribbon, flowers, spray, gums, masking tapes and staplers, as lead items in carrying out operations. To perform tasks effectively, event decorators desired apparel that will; be comfortable in use, be made with large armhole for free arm movement, be comfortable in fit, allow wearer move freely to perform tasks, have styles safe to prevent fall, be made with durable fabric, be made with correct pattern size for fit, be made with appropriate seams, be well finished to serve its purpose in use and be produced with safe fasteners to prevent injury and be roomy to accommodate all necessary tools to minimize stress. Four recommendations were made among which include-apparel industries and manufacturers should use design criteria identified in this study as the basis for developing functional apparels for event decorators and that the findings should be made available to apparel producing industries and manufacturers to encourage the production of functional apparel for different occupational jobs based on their activities.