This practical text takes students step-by-step through the preproduction processes of apparel product development: planning, forecasting, fabricating, developing silhouettes and specifications, pricing and sourcing. It demonstrates how these processes must be coordinated to get the right product to retail when customers want it and at a price they are willing to pay. Based on consultations with some of the most successful and innovative firms in the fashion business, the text covers the evolving partnerships among textile suppliers, product developers, manufacturers, and retailers as they work to develop apparel products in today's customer-driven environment.New to this edition:-- Increased number of case studies and sidebars-- International examples and case studies address the effects of globalization-- More information on menswear, children's wear, and special-size markets-- Updated tables and statistical information and new photo examples-- Discussion of Technological advancements related to product development-- Appx describing careers in product development and resources for additional research-- The context of a global agile manufacturing environment-- Best practices of major product developers-- Challenging hands-on product development activities-- Instructor's Guide includes course outlines, suggestions for teaching each chapter, and guidelines for overseeing and evaluating product development projects
Sandra J. Keiser is associate professor and chairperson of the Fashion Department of Mount Mary College. She was a member of the planning committee for The Changing Shape of Fashion symposium in New York, planned in conjunction with the UN-sponsored 1999--International Year of Older Persons, and a speaker at the First International Conference on Rural Aging in 2000. Her product development knowledge stems from extensive research, consultation and collaboration with industry experts. Myrna B. Garner is associate professor in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at Illinois State University and a member of the Graduate Faculty. She has authored or co-authored articles for the Journal of Family and Consumer Sciences, the Journal of Women Aging and Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, among others.