CLOTMNG REFERENCES AND BUYING PRACTICES OF
FIFTY PRESHMEN AND FIFTY SENIOR GfiRLS OF
SERVITE MGM SCHOOL
DETROH’, MECHIGAN

Thai: fiat m. Doom of M. A.
MlCHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Sister Mary Ambrose, Sitzmann, O. S.‘ M.
1956

 

 

 

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2/05 mm swim—Ins“

momma marmmss mm mm manor: or
mm mm AND um sexton em: or
smvm axon sorrow. nmotr. mcutmu

By
Slater Mary Amhroee, Sitmnn. 0.8.M.

An Abetraet

Submitted to the School for Advanced Graduate Studiee
of Michigan State Univereity of Agriculture and

Applied Science in partial fulfillment of
the requiremente {or the degree or

Maeter of Arte
Department of Textilee. Clothing and Related Arte
Auguet, 8956

ApprovedQZ/fljc é L/b) AMA 1v»!

ammo mourners AND BUYING mortars or
run mm»: AND rim semen cm or
senvxrr. men scnoot. nmoxr. utcnmm

The purpoee of thie eurvey’wne to secure specific in-
formation on purchaeing practicea and teetora influencing
cheicee of clothing or one hundred high echool girle.

in:ormation.uae eought hy'meane or e queetienneire
and pereonel interview to determine the eociooeconomic
backgreund of the etudente; their independence in clothing
cheicee and the evaluation of etyle. color, and deeign or
dreeeee typical of thoee worn hy'teenpage girle. .An in-
ventory at their preeent wardrohee nae made to determine
the number and kind or garmente they owned and in what
eeye the wardrobee or the treehmen and eenier girle dit-
rered.

Reeponeee on thetype a: garment preferred for
echool wear indicated that the majority'preterred the re-
quired echool uniform. .Although the wearing of the uniform
file a requirement, they did not coneider it a violation of
their independence in choice. There were no eigniiicant
differencee between the treehmen and eenior girle in their
etated preferencee in etyle. color, or deeign. .Although
the majority or the girle felt their werdrohee comparable
to thoee of their girl friende, more freehmen than eenior
girle felt that they'had fewer and leee expeneive clothee
than their peere. Separatee were favored by the ireehmen

girle for practically all ectivitiee. Seniore preferred
eeeatere and ekirte for work. euite and dreeeee for church
and aocial activitiea.

Analyeie of their buying practicee revealed that
approximately‘eightybfive of the one hundred girle puro
cheeed all of their clothing readywmade. in their eelectien
of clothing, freehnen girle were influenced hy’eindcw
diepieye, parente, and by the clothing ef their girl friende.
The aenier girie were more influenced by’nagaainee and win»
doe dieplaye. Purchaeee were meet frequently made in
neighborhood etoree_rather than in the downtown department
etoree. Ceeh purchaeee were made for minor itena of apparel
while both the charge account and laybaaay'nethod of payment
were need for purchaeea of naJor itene ae coete, dreeeee.
and euite. Parente of the freshmen girle paid for all er
part of their clothing while about one-half of the eenior
girle accepted full financial reeponeihility’for their
clothing expendituree. . \

in general, the findinge in thie eurvey’cenfermed
te findinge of previoue etudiee of clothing precticee of

teensage girle.

CLOTHING PREFERENCES.AND BUYIHG PRACTICES O?
FIFTY'FRESHMEfltAND PEFTY'SENIOR GIRLS OF
SERVTTE HIGH SCHOOL, DETROIT. MICHIGAN

BY
SISTER non? mimosa, 5112mm, 0.5.1.1.

.A THESIS

Submitted to the School for.Advanced Graduate Studiee
of uichigan State Univereity'ofrAgricuiture and
Applied Science in partial fulfillment of
the requiremente for the degree of
EASTER OF.ARTS
Department of Textiles, Clothing and Related.Arte

August. 1956

newtsoornm

The writer wishes to express her appreciation to:

Miss Hazel B. Strehan, Head of Textiles, Clothing
and Related Arte. for her guidance, interest and kindness
throughout the writing of this thesis.

Students of servite High school who so generously
cooperated in providing data for this study.

Chapter

I.
11. |
11!.

V3
V1.

TABLE OF‘CONTENTS

introduction.....u..........................

RIVEO"01'LEECPIEETCeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

MGthOdS and PfOCCdHPCDeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee I

Diecueeion and interpretetions..............
Personal Deta...............................
Clothing Preferences........................
Preferencee for Readybto-wear...............
Buying Practices............................
lnventony...................................
Summary;....................................
Conclusions.................................
Bibiiography................................
.nppendix.At Personal Deta..................
.Appendix Bi Questionnaire on Clothing
- Preferencea and Buying ‘

PPIGEACCCeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

App‘fld!‘ CI IRWHEOWeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee-e

ii

Page

1
h
19
22
22
31

hi
S9
68
87
9i
93
98

102
116

Table

1.

11.,

1111
TV.
V;
Vie
V11.
V111.

1X.

X1.
_X11.
X111.

XV.

m.
m.
xvm.
xxx.
XX.

IABLES

Distribution of.Ages...o........o............e
Employment of Fathere.............o...........
Employment of Mothera.................1.......
student Employment............................
Family’Composition............................
Color and Design Choices......................
Suitability'of Garments for Various Occasions.

Description of Ten Dresses Used in
Pfthfcnc. Studyeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Summary of Preferences........................
Buying Practices..............................
Garments Purchased Readybwado.................
Stores from which Clothing in Purchaeed.......
Sources of influence on Clothing Choiceecuao-o
Price Range for chnquc Dressesfc-oo-cooo-aof

Comparison of Clothing with that of
808‘ Girl PTECRdeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

inventory'of‘Winter c0.t.eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeelee
inventory'of Mid-Season Coate.................
inventory 0! Sport JDGROEDeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

inventory 0’ Cardigan SWMEtOTIeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Page

22
23
2h
25
28
37
39

ha
53
60
61
62
6h
66

67
71
72
73
7h

inventory or RtiflCOltDeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee 7S

Inventory'of $u1t'eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

iii

76

XXIIe
XXIII.

XXIV.

XXV.
XXVI.
)‘CCVIIe
XXV111.
XXIX.

Inventory of Wool Dresses..."................
inventory of Cotton Dreeoce...................
Inventory of Synthetic Dresses................
inventory of Cotton Blouees...................
inventory of Synthetic Blouses................
inventory of Cotton Skirts....................
inventory of Wool Skirts".......-.............
inventory of Sweatere.........................

Inventory Of pres! shoeseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

iv

77
78
79
80
81

33

~85

86

CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION

We are all aware that the high school girl of today
is socially different from the adolescent girl of the early
20th century. Her social activities are more numerous and
different from those of her mother because of her participa-
tion in varied activities. Today teen-age groups are recog-
nised as a new consumer-buyer group whose preferences and
buying practices are significantly different from adults.
Clothing production and distribution agencies recognise this
new market. Many teen-age girls today are employed on a
part-time basis and frequently work fulletime during the
summer months. They have greater independence in the se-
lection of the type and quantity of clothing they wear and
they also have more economic independence than their mothers
had at the same age.

Today's market offers such an array of new materials
that we want to develop in our students an awareness of the
changing consumer~buyer market from which their selection is
to be made so that they will be able to evaluate the textile
products in terms of relative merits and limitations.

Therefore this present study will be an investigation
of the clothing preferences and buying practices of a limited
teen-age group in order to gain information that will serve

as a basis of future instruction in giving students those

2

practical skills and knowledge which will enable them to form
correct Judgments in choosing the clothing items they pur-
ChECBe ‘

A limited amount of social-psychological research has
already been done on clothing preferences and buying practices.
These studies indicate that teenoage girls vary in physical,
social and emotional development and that their clothing
preferences may, or in part, bear a direct relationship to
their age, and also to their social and emotional maturity.

This small study is designed to investigate differences
in preferences and buying practices of two adolescent groups
whose ages vary hy three years. ‘A selected group of one
hundred girls attending a parochial school of Detroit will
participate in this study.

The specific objectives of this survey are:

i. To gain pertinent information about the
social and economic status of their
families.A

2. To investigate whether or not the re-
quirement of wearing a school uniform
violates their concept of independence
of choice, and if they'wouid like any
modification in the type of school uni-
form currently worn.

3. To investigate to what extent these one
hundred girls have independence in the
choice of their wearing apparel.

h. .An analysis of each girl's evaluation of
ten dresses, considered typical of those
worn by her age group, will be studied
for preferences in style, color, fabric,

quality of workmanship, ease of care,
and suitability for specific occasions.

5. To investigate clothing choices and buy-
ing practices of freshmen and senior
groups as revealed through an analysis
of their individual wardrobe inventories.

The primary value of this study will be for the inves-
tigator who feels that she will secure a better understanding
of her students. concept of individual clothing requirements
and the problems inherent in their selection and purchase.

it is also the hope of the investigator that this
study may contribute in a small way to others who are con-

cerned with clothing for teen-age girls.

CHAPTER 11
REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Co-ordination and versatility are keynotes cf the
fascinating fashion picture of the wardrobe of our teen-
ager today. The develcpment of Judgment in analyzing clothing
requirements and the development of skills in actual buying
procedures are more significant than heretofore, because so
much of the family's clothing is purchased ready-made.

Modern ingenuity has produced such varied fabrics that Judg-
ment of quality and choice of colors and finishes have be-
come very complicated. .A review of literature reveals that
more and more attention is being directed toward the study

- of buying practices.

Bayor and Wybourn states ”Clothing has many potential-
ities for enriching our everyday living; it can help a person
live more fully and effectively: but it also can cause un-
happiness and frustration."1

‘Several investigations indicate that for adolescents
clothing assumes greater importance than it does for other
age groups. Hurlock, who has made a study of adolescents,
finds that the majority of those interviewed indicate that
adolescence was the period of life in which they had been

most strongly affected by the approval or disapproval of

1Bayer, Stephanie and wybourn, Marjory, Third Clothing
and Textile Seminar, Journal 25 Home Economics, December, 1950,

pe 803e

others in regard to dress. Self confidence was increased
by clothing most in adolescence. She also made the obsern
vation that the adolescent is no longer 'satisfied with
clothing that resembles the crowd.“ it must be made of
equally good material, it must come from equally good stores,
and it must be as expensive a wardrobe as that of the ado-
lescent friend.2

Likewise, Silverman in her study of the attitudes and
feelings of teenoage girls toward clothing as well as their
actual practices in relation to clothing, concluded that
desire for the approval of friends, desire for the internal
satisfactions of feelings of poise, self-confidence and
happiness, and belief in the advantages in vocational and
social areas to be achieved from good clothing and an at-
tractive appearance, were factors which influenced the
choices of clothing and the attention to appearance on the
part of a major portion of teennage girls.3

Margaret Warning in her study sought to determine if
the clothing of the daughters is used in the same way as the
clothing of the adult family members, that is, as a symbol
which corresponds to the social class of the family. She

2Hurlock, Elizabeth, Adolescent Develo ment, New”York,
McGrawbHill Book Co., l9h9. p. 137.

3Silverman S ‘ ‘ '

ylvia 5., Clothin and A. arance Their
P cholooicnl In lication; for Teen-Ego Girls, Eontributions
to Education No. $12, Hew‘YorE, fiureau of Publications,
Teachers. College, Columbia University, l9h5, p. lho.

6

found that the number of garments owned by the girls, the
individuals who selected the garments and the types of
stores in which the purchases were made are not important
-facts in themselves, but they'are indicative of the values
and the attitudes which are responsible for the similarities
in clothing behavior within one class and for the differences
in behavior between social classes. The fact which is vitally
important is that the social class members recognise that they
belong to a social group and want to own and use clothes
which give them the feeling of group solidarity because the
lgarments are similar to the clothes worn by the other members
of the social class. social class members want to follow
the practices which they recognise as behavior acceptable to
the other members of the social class to which they'belong.
She concludes that clothing is more than an individual
matter, that the clothing of the daughter is used by the
family'to shoV'status and is therefore not the concern of
one child alone. She found that purchasing practices, the
.msttsr of independence in shopping, number of garments pre-
‘viously'owned by'anothsr person, the discarding of garments,
and finally, the kinds and the amounts of social participa-
tion differed in the various social classes and affected

the clothing behavior of social class members.1

Tm

 

lWarning, Mhrgaret, ”The implications of Social Class
for Clothing Behaviors The Acquisition and Use of‘Apparel
for Girls Seven, Eight, and Nine Years of Age in Three Social
Classes in Des Moines, loss,” Unpublished Doctoral Thesis,
Michigan State university, l956, p. l26.

King, investigated the role of clothing in the family
relationships in twenty-five selected families, and reported
that clothing seemed to be of significantly greater impor-
tance for the teen-age girls in these families than for any
other age or sex group. The teen-age girls in her case
studies were found to use clothing as protection from fear
or ridicule, as a means of gaining social and adult status,
and also for personal satisfaction. King's investigation
further revealed that clothing gave teen-age girls a sense
of personal satisfaction as well as social status if they
were allowed to choose the clothing which they felt was in
conformance with their group. Clothing frustrations, among
the adolescent girls interviewed, stemmed from the imposi-
tion of a standard of dress which was in conflict with the
standard of their group.h

ln the study conducted by Holmblade, she found that
about a third of the pupils and a half of the mothers said
that disagreements about clothes had taken place. it appears
that conflicts arose between the mother and daughter because
of differing opinions concerning which styles and colors were
becoming to the daughter. ‘Another point of disagreement
between mother and daughter was the fact that the mother

thought the daughter's choices were too old for her. A.few

uKing, Bernice, 9A Study of the Role of Clothing in
the Family Relationships of Twenty-five Selected Families,”
Unpublished Master's Thesis, Michigan State College, East
Lansing, l9h9, p. llS.

of the arguments reported were related to the cleaning and
care of the garments.5

A.atudy made by Collar involving the questioning of
high school girls about buying clothes indicated that most
of the girls did not make long-time plans for their clothing
but purchased things as they felt they needed them. She
reported that over three-fourths of the pupils in her study
said that they knew neither hOW’much money had been spent

for their clothing from September to march nor.how much

they could plan to Spend in the remainder of the school

year.6

The question arises as to.whether high school pupils
are allowed to select their own clothing. vanSyckle found
the following patterns of participation in the purchases of
clothing reported by the consumers whom she interviewed.

For the children over 12 years of age. slightly over a fourth
of the purchases were made by the parents alone, about half

by the parents and child together, and somewhat under s

5iiolmblsde,.A. J.. 'A.Comparative Study of the Clothing
.Area of the Secondary Homemaking Curriculum in s Selected
Community and Related Beliefs and Practices of Families in
that Community)“ Unpublished Doctoral Thesis, Michigan State
College, 195A. p. 100.

6Collar, Ruth, 1A.$tudy of the Clothing Planning,
Selecting and Buying Practices of Homemaking 1 Girls in
Selected Urban Areas of Michigan,” Unpublished Master's
Thesis, Michigan Stats College, East Lansing, p. 10h.

fourth by the child alone.7

A.similar situation with respect to the increased
proportion of older children who took responsibility for
the buying of their clothing was presented by Silverman.
Only one-tenth of the lB-year-olds reported selecting their
own clothes while over two~thlrds of the lB-year-olds did so.
However, three-fourths of the older girls sought their
mothers. advice in making the selections.8

Richardson suggests that the persons involved in the
purchase of a garment may'vsry with the type of garment.
.About thrseofourths of the ninth-grads girls whom she
studied reported having the hslp of their mothers in pur-
chasing maJor items of apparel such as skirts, sweaters,
and dresses. Most of the pupils purchased minor items, such
as scarfs and blouses, by themselves.9 Data on this problem
or adolescent independence in shopping was compiled in both
of the studies by Cobb and Reid. Cobb found that sixty-one
percent of the girls select their clothes with their mothers'
help) thirtybtwo percent select their own clothes; while

A; A ._ A

7van Syckle, Calla, flPractices Folio ed by Consumer in
Buying Large Expenditure items of Clothing, Furniture and
Equipment, Technical Bulletin No. Shh, East Lansing, Ago
ricultural Experiment Station, Michigan State College,
June, 1951, Pa 120

8

gRichardson, Marigene, "A Study of the Clothing

Planning, Selecting and Buying Practices of Homemaking 1
Girls in Reimbursed Schools in Selected Areas," Unpublished
Master‘s Problem, Michigan State College, East Lansing,
1953: P0 160

Silverman,‘22, cit., p. 59.

10

six percent have their clothes selected for them. She
stated, 'lt is significant that the middle economic group
' and the middle educational group achieve the greatest in-
dependence in selection of clothing . . . as age increases
there is a marked tendency for girls to select their own
clothing, as indicated by eighty-three percent at age
eighteen,"10 Reid found that although many of the girls
did not shop independently, ninety-three percent usually
were present when clothes were bought for them.11

What influences the consumer in her purchasing?
Nystrom says that the nature and extent of consumer demands
are dependent upon the amount of income received, size and
composition of the family, education of the homemaker and
the wage earner, habits and customs of consumption, and
the influence of fashion. He also states that changes in
consumer demand are due to changes in purchasing power,
improvements in the production of goods, changes in the
- habits and customs, and changes in the kinds of work and

ways of living.12

1OCobb, Nellie, "Some Factors influencing Clothin
Satisfactions and Dissatisfactions of High School Girls gn
Lee County High School, Auburn,.Aiabama, Unpublished
Master's Thesis,.Alabama Polytechnic institute, Auburn,

1951, p. ’40.

11Reid, Doris Jean, 'A Study of the Clothing Practices
of‘Urban High School Girls," Unpublished Master's hesis,
Virginia Polytechnic Institute, Blacksburg, 1951, p. 26.

1alslystrom, Paul H., Economics 33. Retailing, New York,
The Ronald Press Co., 19h9p PP. 21-§l.

ll

Brisco and Wingate emphasize the importance of
reaching consumer demand through the use of appeal. Ad-
vertising and salesmanship are important factors in arousing
demand. They feel it is necessary to keep in mind that the
woman customer is the most important person in retailing
and that her decisions account for approximately ninety
percent of the department-store sales.13

Stone, Form and Strahan maintain that the social
climate of the shopping expedition influences the decision
of the purchase. They divide shoppers into two groups:
the "receptive" group includes honemakers who like to shop,
who are influenced by window displays, who approach cloth-
ing purchases with an uncertainty or vagueness concerning
what they want to buy, who desire the support of shopping
companions or that of sales clerks in arriving at a pura
chase decision. The "insulated" group dislikes window
shopping, avoids window displays, approaches clothing pur-
chases with a certainty of what they want and excludes
shopping companions and sales clerks from their purchase
decision.“t

Esther Thor and May Cowles found in their study that

consumers lack knowledge of buying methods and thus are to

h“ 4...

l .
3Brisco, N. A. and Wingate, J. W., Retail Selling,
New York, Prentice-Hall inc., l9h5, p. 8.

mStone, Gregory P., Form, Wm. H., and Strshsn,
Hazel B.‘ ”The Social Climate of Decision in Shopping for
Clothes, Journalcfl‘flome Economics, February, l9Sh, p. 88.

12

blame for the many typeset unsatisfactory goods on the mar-
ket. Consumers are ignorant or lack independent Judgment

in selecting merchandise. They discuss a survcy'mado by
Dosring and Eilingwood at Madison, Visconsin, to determine
consumers' buying habits in the selection of dresses. One
of the incestigators assumed the role of salesperson and
observed and recorded the comments and reactions while pur-
chasing or desiring to purchase dresses. 0! the two hundred
customers observed, titty'purohasad a total of fifty dresses:
thirtybnine paid cash, and credit sea extended to fourteen:-
two paid a deposit on future delivery; On.an average, five
‘drsssss were tried on for each dress purchased. Nearly'onsv
half of the customers had shopping companions. The time for
each sale varied from.tivs minutes to two hours. Over once
third of the customers stated the price they'wishcd to pay;
The price asked accounted for refusal to purchase by fifteen
of the two hundred fifty‘customsrs. Comments on style were
made by'onoathlrdg one-fourth desired the latest fashion)
sixtybfour were concerned with‘vorkmanshipx thirtsan sa-
sninsd seam stitching in the garments: durability influenced
nineteen; thirteen did not specify particular choice of
material than asking to see garments. .Apparsntiy'customsrs
wished garments suitable in color, lins.’and tit. Color

was datinitsiy'statsd by l773 sixteen desired becomingnsss
of line; and the tit or the garment concerned 11:. Twenty»

firs refused to hay'bscanss alterations vars necessary»

13

This survey further indicates that price, style, quality,
and personal suitability were the major factors in the se-
lection of dresses by the consumers observed. Customers
showed little interest in learning trade names for materials
and colors.1

Dyer etetes that becomingness and suitability in
clothing do not necessarily need to mean a greet expenditure
of money. Selection does take time and energy it desirable
goods are to be obtained. Four points are to be considered
in the selection and purchase of clothing: social status,
occasion for which the garment is to be used, age, and type
or person for whom the garment is secured. "Right dress is,
therefore, that which is fit for the station in lite, and
for the work to be done in it; is graceful, becoming, durable,
healthful, and finally that which is comfortable.'16

One or the decisions people must make when they buy
clothes is where they will do their shopping; whether they
*wlll patronize local stores, making shopping trips out or
town, or order clothes by mail; whether they will make their
purchases in department stores or specialty shops. .A fur-

ther consideration is whether or not they will plan to buy

garments at sale prices. The evidence concerning people's

 

15Thor, Esther and Coulee, M. D., ”How Women Select
Dresses,‘l Journal‘2£,Home Economics, December, l9h3, pp.

573'576e

l6 '
Dyer Elisabeth Zextile Fabrics Chicago Houghton
Mitflln Co., 39bit. p. 156. "‘"""""'e' '

1h

beliefs and practices in this connection is rather limited.
When people buy clothing they usually select a certain gar-
ment or garments from the merchandise displayed to them and
reject others. What is their basis of decision in favor of
a given garment? Coleman found that appearance of the gar-
ment was the factor most frequently reported as a major

‘7 vanSyckle found

consideration in the choice of clothing.
that although durability and ease of upkeep were also men-
tioned by well over half of the.conaumers, appearance was
the factor considered most important by the great majority
of the consumers.18

One of the interesting questionsconcerning the
adolescent girl's choices in clothing is the source from
which she receives ideas for the clothing she purchases.
Meyer asked this question of senior high school girls in a
Kansas community and found that store windows, their
schoolmates' clothing, their mother's suggestions, and
fashion magazines were each mentioned by two-thirds or more.

of the pupils.19 Leash found in her study of teen-age
buying practices that the girl's choices in clothing were

La

17Coleman, Margaret, “An Analysis of the Responsibil-
ities of the FirstJYear Homemaking Teacher with implications
for.Teacher Education,” Unpublished Doctor's Dissertation,
Teachers. College, Columbia University, New York, l95h, p. 99.

18'V'anSSywtmle,3.2. cit., p. 20.

l9Moyer, Louisa, "The Clothing Practices of a Selected
Group of Kansas Senior High School Girls,"Unpubllshed Master's
Thesis, Kansas State College, Manhattan, l9hh, p. 15.

is

influenced most by clothing advertisements in newspapers
and also by store window displays] their parents and class.
mates also influenced their choices. Leash also found that
the majority of the girls shopped in downtown department
stores and specialty shops. Only twentybfive or onewfourth
of the total group always or frequently shopped in their
neighborhood starch”?o
interesting results compiled for several surveys
were found on specific clothing preferences. Consideration
of the preferences relates to type of garment, color, style,
and line. Silverman found that throughout the age range of
twelve to eighteen, sweaters and shirts were the most popular
mode of dress worn by a large majority of each age group;
“cotton dresses were their second choice. The indications
A were that there was a preferred mode of dress_to which all

groups attempted to conform.2!

Preferences in types, textures and designs of fabrics
were also considered by Smith in her survey. Cotton was the
most pepular fabric for blouses as indicated by fifty-nine
percent of the girls, while nylon was selected by thirty-
nine percent and rayon crepe by fifteen percent. Sweater

fabrics were listed in the following order: nylon, cashmere,

.__._A 1% ____ _. .‘44... “— h__ L——

20Leash, Grace, 9A Survey of the Clothing Preferences
and Buying Practices of 100 Girls of West Division High School
in Milwaukee, Vii’isconsin,‘I Unpublished Master's Thesis, Michigan
State College, l953. pp. 58-59. '

ZISII‘Vemn, 22a 2-1-1109 p. LLBe

l6

wool, and angora. Gabardine was the most pepular for suits
and soft-textured fabrics for‘sklrts.22
The girl's expressions of preferences for line showed
that for all types of garments, plain fabrics were consist-
ently more acceptable to the girls than plaid or printed
fabrics. Casual and tailored garments were favored by all
of the girls. and sixty-four percent of the girls indicated
a preference for straight skirts, sixteen percent for pleated
and fifteen percent for flared.23
fin the Cobb study. preference for line was correlated
with age: and it revealed that one hundred percent of those
aged fifteen preferred soft curved lines as compared to only
sixtymseven percent of those who were eighteen years old.
None of the younger girls preferred straight lines. while
thirtywthree percent of the eighteen year age group indicated
this preference. The inference seems to be that as age in-
creases the tendency for preference of straight lines in-
21;

CP03333e

.An investigation of the problems of two thousand
girls by Hertzler in l9h0 showed that twentyhone percent

228mlth,.Alms, FApperel Buying Motives and Habits of
High School Girls of Des Moines, lawn,” Unpublished Master's
Thesis, Drake university, Des Moines, 1950, p. 80.

23Helman, Lois, "The Relationship of Color and Line of
Dress to the Personality of High School Girls,“ Unpublished
Maiger's Thesis, Drexel institute of Technology, Philadelphia,
‘9 3 p. 3‘s

2%01333, 22s 513;", Pe 1L6.

i?

felt that their clothes were not adequate for their needs.
For some, this lack of proper clothing gave rise to feelings
of inferiority. Others felt that they were kept from
Joining the group because of lack of clothing}?5

Leash found that ninetybons percent considered their
ssrdrobss adequate for school. Eightybeight percent con-
sidered than adequate for informal sear, hat only fortybtvo
percent considered than adequate for formal occasions. These
figures indicated a surprisingly large number who felt that
their wardrobes were adequate. This nay’bs partially exp
piainsd by*the fact that eightybtvo of the girls worked and
seventybfivs of than.spsnt at least a part of their earnings
on clothing. rsrtybthrae girls earned from five to fifteen
dollars a week. This date may’indicsts s self-satisfied
attitude on the part of the students due to their limited
social experience. to their family'backgroand. and also to
the fact that there was little evidence of social mobility
in the family.26

Holmhlsde in her study of the clothing ssrn by'tean~
agsrs sought to find the clothes that parents do not sent
their daughter to soar. Ten of the mothers did not want
their daughters to wear clothes which they considered

25herteler, Alvenda, 'Problems of the Normal.ndolsscent
Girl." glifornia gourna 1___ of: Secondagx Education. February.
nPP-

26LCCCR, 22s 2%" Pa 65a

18

inappropriate for a specific occasion such as: Jeans to
' school, shorts for downtown, good clothes to school, shirt
and jeans when there was company or nylon stockings to school.
A similar number did not went their daughters to wear gar-
ments in which necklines were too low, skirts and sweaters
which were too tight, or very sheer blouses. A.few mothers
also named garments which they thought to be in poor taste
as colors that were too gaudy, or clothes that were too
fussy, and shirts in unb2coming styles.27

Silverman felt the school could serve the parents
well by interpreting to them clothing interest and resulting
behavior. Later she recommended, becauso.a great majority
of the group she studied indicated a desire for an expert
in the school, that such a person could help them.with their
clothing problems as well as help them express their in-
dividuality and enhance their attractiveness. nAdditionslly,
she suggested that such courses must be of the functional
type, not only acquainting girls with the theoretical
foundation of design and line but also realistic problems

of appropriateness, individuality and suitability to age.28

27Hoimblade, 32. 23;... p. 93.

2BSilverman,'gg.‘g_i__t_., p. ll9.

19

CHAPTER 1!!
METHODS AND PROCEDURES

The questionnaire and garments used in the personal
interviews of this study will be designed to secure specific
information as to purchasing practices and factors influenc-
ing the choice of clothing_of fifty freshmen and fifty senior
girls of Servite High School, Detroit, Sichigan.

These two groups will be surveyed to ascertain similar-
ities and differences between the two age groups in their
clothing choices. The senior girls chosen to participate
in this study will be enrolled in clothing classes during
the current school year. Since freshmen girls may not
enroll in clothing classes their participation will be on a
voluntary basis.

The questionnaire for the interviews will be given a
trial test to determine the length of time necessary for its
completion and also to Judge whether the questions are
clearly stated and understood. Because of the great amount
of information to be secured, it is not feasible to try to
obtain it in one interview. Two interviews of approximately
fortybfive minutes each will be scheduled for each student.
Since these interviews can be best secured after school or
on Saturday, it will be necessary to extend the interviews
over a period of weeks.

The questionnaire will consist of three parts:

Part I (see Appendix.A, page 98) will be a personal

220
data sheet designed to give the investigator specific in-
formation concerning each student's family. it will include
questions on the occupation and birthplace of the parents,
the amount of money, if any, earned by the student inter~
viewed and what proportionate expenditure of the money she
earns is used for her clothing.

Questions designed to reveal the student's Judgment
concerning the adequacy of her wardrobe, how she compares
.it with those of her peers, and her own observation con-
cerning her personal appearance and grooming habits will
also be included in Part 1. Each student participating in
the study will be asked to personally fill out this section
of the questionnaire.

Part ii (see.Appendix 8, page 102) will be designed
to determine whether these one hundred girls feel that the
wearing of a school uniform violates their concept of
independence in making clothing choices and whether they
desire any modification in the type of school uniform which
they are now'wearing. .A third group of questions will be
designed to measure the degree of sensitivity they have
concerning their personal requirements in clothing and their
awareness of the factors which influence their choices.

Ten dresses, typical of those available in retail
stores and typical of dresses worn by teen-age girls, will
be used to study individual preferences in ready-to-wear.

These dresses will be examined by the students for specific

20
data sheet designed to give the investigator specific in-
formation concerning each student's family. it will include
questions'on the occupation and birthplace of the parents,
the amount of money, if any) earned by the student inter-
viewed and what preportionate expenditure of the money she
earns is used for her clothing.

Questions designed to reveal the student's Judgment
concerning the adequacy of her wardrobe, how she compares
it with those of her peers, and her own observation con-
cerning her personal appearance and grooming habits will
also be included in Part 1. Each student participating in
the study will he asked to personally fill out this section
of the questionnaire.

Part ii (see.Appendix B, page 102) will be designed
to determine whether these one hundred girls feel that the
wearing of a school uniform violates their concept of
independence in making clothing choices and whether they
desire any modification in the type of school uniform which
they are now’wearing. .A third group of questions will be
designed to measure the degree of sensitivity they have
concerning their personal requirements in clothing and their
awareness of the factors which influence their choices.

Ten dresses, typical of those available in retail
stores and typical of dresses worn by teen-age girls, will
he used to study individual preferences in readyuto-wear.

These dresses will be examined by the students for specific

21

preferences in style, color, fabric, quality of workmanship.
_ and ease of care. Each dress will be identified by a number.
A price tag. and label with all available pertinent infor-
mation about fabric, finish, or recommendations for care
will be attached to the garments.

Part 111 will be an inventory check-list for outer-
garments in their present wardrobe. It will provide infor-
mation concerning the number of the specified outer-garments
owned, the approximate date of purchase, approximate cost,
and type of fabric, color and style.

in order to obtain as accurate information as possible,
this inventony check-list will be filled out at home where

they'may actually check on the requested information.

cmnmiv
_DISCUSSION'AND Inraarnarnrions

22

An analysis of the personal data sheets revealed

pertinent information about these one hundred girls.

.Ages of these one hundred girls ranged from thirteen to

eighteen inclusively.

Nearly two-thirds of the freshmen

were fourteen years of age, and about threeefourths of the

Table 1 indicates

seniors were seventeen years of age.

the distribution of ages within the two groups.

yma;

DISTRIBUTION 0F.AGE8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

_WAge <1},_ lh‘ lS_*_ i6 ll,wg _lB Total
Freshmen lo 32 8 SO
geniors 12 36 g 50

 

The data on the occupations of the fathers indicated

that the majority'may be classified as skilled or semi-

skilled workers.

belonged in a professional classification.

Only six out of the ninety-three reporting
Since Detroit is

an industrial city it was expected that the majority of

their fathers might be employed in some branch of the

23

automotive industry. Occupations of the fathers are listed

in TflbIB 110

TABLE I

 

EMPLONMENT 0F RATHERS

‘_-_._. ..__.___ .‘LH a_._.

 

 

e of .
Position pg Freshmen Seniors Totali
Factory 21 lh 3S
Salesman 5 7 l2
Maintenance 2 3 S
Foreman l 3 u
Carpenter l 3 h
Engineer 1 3 h
Accountant 2 2 h
Policeman 2 l 3
Barber 2 l 3
Painter 2 l 3
Baker l 2 3
Doctor 0 2 2
Grocer i l 2
Plumber 2 O 2
Undertaker 0 2 2
Radio-Television l l 2
Landscaper i 0 l
Cab Driver 1 0 l
Dispatcher l O 1
Not working 2 3 5
Not living 1 l 2

 

 

 

 

it was found that twentybfour or practically one-
fourth of the mothers were engaged in full-time positions
outside the home, while fourteen mothers held part-time
positions. This has implications in terms of the relative
amount which might be spent for clothing and of the buying

2n

practices within the home. The type of positions held by
the mothers is shown in Table ill.

TABLE II

 

.,___._i ww—

EMPLOYMENT OF EDTHERS

 

 

 

M9. 2'; W Fres%.‘%%iors Fresfigysgfiiors M

A“ ‘ V :4______
Saleslady 5 h l 2 12
Factory h 2 2 3 ll
Secretary 1 3 l 0 5
Telephone . l O 2 l h
Seametress 2 0 O 0 2
Nurse 2 0 0 0 2
Cook . O O 0 2 2
Total 15 9 . 6 3 % 33

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

An analysis of the data on self-employment indicated
that thirtyefive or the seniors and thirtybthree of the
freshman girls were currently employed. Thirtyvone worked
after school: forty had Saturday Jobs: and forty-rive or
almost one-half of the total group interviewed indicated that
they had worked last summer. The fact that so many of the

girls work suggests a need for supplementing their family

23

income to provide for basic needs or for non-essential but
desined expenditures. Most of the senior girls were employed
as clerks in nearby department stores; whereas the majority
of the freshmen girls were babysitters. Table IV indicates
the average hourly wage paid to the freshmen and senior
groups. The six girls who earned more than one dollar per
hour had special aptitudes or abilities. Two were organists,

three gave music lessons, and one gave dancing lessons.

TABLE 9;

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

 

 

 

 

Type of Earnings Earnings
Positions Freshmen Seniors per hour per week
Selesgirl 2 l9 3 .75 to .85 $10 to $15

‘ Babysitter 3i 6 .ho ' .50 2 " 5
waitress 0 h .90 10 " 12
Teacher 0 3 1.00 "1.50 35 ' ho
Organist O 2 2.00 35 " ho
Receptionist 0 l .95 20 “ 25
Total 33 35

 

 

 

 

The reasons given for employment outside the home

overwhelmingly indicated a desire for additional money for

26

clothing purchases. Eightybflve percent of the money these
one hundred girls earned was spent for clothing, approxi-
mately ten percent for school supplies and transportation,
and the remaining five percent was put into savings.

To better understand the home life of these girls,
questions were asked about the birthplace of their parents
and the language spoken at home. .Analysis of replies re-
vealed that twentywiive fathers and twentybseven mothers
were foreign born. However, thirty of the fiftybseven were
born in Canada. Since Windsor is only across the river
from Detroit, the remaining twenty-seven foreign born parents
did not seem exceedingly high in number. However, it was
indicated that a foreign language was spoken in nineteen of
the one hundred homes. Further questioning revealed that
although English was usually spoken in the home, Flemish,
French, German, and ltalian were spoken chiefly by the
parents or upon the occasion of a visitor in the home who
did not speak English.

it seems significant that most of the girls interv
viewed came from relatively small family groups. Table V
shows the number of children in the family and the ages of
brothers and sisters living at home as well as those not
living at home. Fiftybeix or more than half of the families
had one, two, or three children. Thirtybthree or one-third
of the total families had four, five, or six children. i

There were eleven homes in which there were six or more

27

children. While there were approximately ea many brother:

aa aietere living at home, there were fewer boys than girla
under high echool age. There were comparatively'few older
brothers or aiatere who had homes of their own or were

living away from home. in the majority of the familiee in
this aurvey the children were too young to contribute in

any appreciable way to their eupport. No doubt this accounts,
in part. for the number of mothere who sought employment out-
aide the home. Teble‘v shove the family composition aa to
number of children in the family, eex and whether they were

younger or older than the interviewee.

28

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29

The response to the questions on self-evaluation of
their personal appearance indicated twentybtwo of the girls
were not satisfied with their appearance. it was interest-
ing to note that sixteen of the twentyutwo were freshmen.
When questioned further it was found that dissatisfaction
was not always due to the inadequacy of their clothes, but
to over-weight, figure deformities or poor complexion which
made them feel uncomfortable and unhappy about their appear-
ance.

, Almost one-half of the senior girls stated that they
were satisfied with both the number and variety of garments
in their wardrobe. Since two-thirds of them.worked and
spent approximately eightybfive percent of their earnings
on clothing. one might assume that the desire for clothes
was a primary motivation in their seeking employment. ‘Almost
three times as many freshmen girls as seniors felt that
their clothes were not comparable to those of their friends.
The freshman girl who had Just entered high school probably
had had limited social activity. but now felt her wardrobe
inadequate for the additional activities she would be at-
tending or participating in.

Church, parties; and dating were the social occasions
outside of school for which clothing was important. The
,senior girls felt a need for more party dresses because of
more social activities. The freshmen girls, however, felt

their wardrobes adequate for their more limited social

30

requirements. Both age groups, however, felt the needfor or
wanted more sweaters, blouses, and play clothes. Sport
activities and parties were the school activities that made
the individual girl feel the need and desire for appropriate
clothing. Only one senior, as compared to five freshmen
girls, felt that her wardrobe was not adequate for social
participation in her group.

Analysis of the responses to questions pertaining to
their independence as to what should be worn for special
occasions reVealed that fifteen senior girls seldom sought
the opinion of others while only five of the freshman group

indicated such independence in this regard.

CLOTHINO’PREFERENCES

A.“

 

The school uniform worn at Servite High School

31

32

it has been both traditional and compulsory for the
girls attending this parochial school to wear a prescribed
school uniform. in Part ll, (see Appendix 8, page 103) of
the questionnaire on clothing preferences an attempt was
made to determine whether the girls would prefer not to
dress uniformly or would like any modification in the uni-
form now being worn.

The uniform the girls wear consists of a navy blue
rayon~dacron gabardine box~type Jacket and a four~gore
skirt with a pleat in both the back and the front. The
blouse is a white broadcloth “Ship and Shore“ brand with
short sleeves and a pointed collar. For church wear, a
peaked hat is worn. Black and white saddle Oxfords and
white anklets complete the uniform.

The uniform was currently purchased from Kern's,
one of the large downtown Detroit department stores. The
cost of the Jacket was $12.95: the skirt, $6.95; the
blouse, $2.95; the hat, $1.95. Most of the girls purchased
two skirts and three blouses when they were freshmen.
Seventybfive percent of the girls have been able to wear
their school uniform for the entire four years thewaere
in high school and have found it necessary to purchase
only two new blouses each year.

An analysis of the responses concerning the attitude
of the girls toward the wearing of a prescribed uniform to

school follows. When the questionnaire was administered,

33

the freshmen group had been wearing their uniform only
three weeks. When asked if they preferred wearing street
clothes to school instead of the school uniform, thirteen.
freshmen said they preferred the street clothes, but only
four of the seniors preferred street clothes to the uniform.
Both groups felt that the style of the uniform was attrac-
tive and becoming to the maJority of the girls. When con.
sidering the initial costs and maintenance over the period
of the four years they felt that it was much less expensive
than if they had individually selected their own clothes.

Many of the girls indicated that they would like to
see minor changes made-in the style or design of the uni-
form. Twentwaive girls wished that the Jacket was more
fitted, ten would like to have the Jacket replaced with a
weakit. while eight would have preferred a Jerkin instead
of the Jacket. seventyhfive of the students would like to
have the shoulder pads removed from the Jacket. Sixty felt
that the skirt needed no modification. Ten senior girls
preferred a straighter skirt, while fifteen of the freshmen
girls preferred a circular or fuller skirt.

The style and fabric of the blouse were well liked
by m. maJorlty of the total group. They suggested that the
top button on the blouse be raised about an inch as they
felt that the neckline was too low; .Almost the entire group
were dissatisfied with the hat that had been chosen. The
elastic in the back of the hat tended to make it slide off

the head. They preferred a “beanie” type of hat.

Ninety percent of group were satisfied with the
saddle oxford which was chosen and stated that if the
school had not required a specific type of shoe that they
.would have selected saddle oxfords. -Ninety girls felt the
saddle oxford was comfortable and gave good support. Ten
percent of the group preferred the loafer type of shoe to
the saddle oxford.

When asked if they felt unhappy in wearing garments
to school that were not of their own choice, four seniors
and thirteen freshmen stated that they were unhappy. When
asked if given a choice would they continue to wear the
uniform to school, fortybsix of the seniors and thirtyb
seven of the freshmen stated that they preferred the school
. uniform. Reasons substantiating their preferences were:
Pwith the wearing of a uniform there was no rivalryg' ”No
question of what to wear the next day)“ "More economical)"
IOne can keep other clothes for other activities;' "Not
enough other clothes;' and I'Saves on the washing and
'ironing.9 The girls who disliked having to wear the uni-
form stetedr 'Got tired of wearing the same thing;' 'Did
not like to be dressed like someone elsex'l and I'l.iked to
wear a variety of clothes.“

4 An.analysis of the responses as to the serviceability
and durability of their school uniforms indicated marked
differences of opinion. Almost half of the girls did not

think that the fabric in their uniform gave satisfactory
serVice. Their dissatisfaction was based on "Gets out of
shape;' I'Gets shinyg” and ”Sleeves wear out.“ Comments on
case of care were: "Wrinkles fall out)“ and “Does not show
soil or spots." Approximately one-fourth felt that it was
necessary to press the skirt frequently in order to present
a neat appearance.

When questioned about the factors that most frequently
_influence their choice in the purchase of a skirt or blouse,
it was found that none of the one hundred girls knew a brand
name for a skirt; the only brand name that they knew for
blouses was I'Ship and Shore,” the brand name of the blouse
that they were with the school uniform. One hundred percent
of the girls were concerned about color, price, and style;
whereas, cost of upkeep, ease of care, and fiber content
were not important factors to them. Only ten of the one
hundred interviewed were concerned with workmanship. Fifty-
two of the freshman group and only five of the senior group
wished to purchase both skirts and blouses that were similar
to those of their friends.

Color and design hold a very prominent place in
their clothing preferences. Table‘Vi shows that blue seemed
significantly high in their color preference in coats,
dresses, and blouses. Gray was popular for suits or skirts. .
in order of frequency, blue, white, brown, and pink were

the favored colors for sweaters. Approximately one-third

36

preferred blue or white for blouses. Red was the second

choice color for winter coat: and pink for spring coats.
Plain fabric was the predominate choice for all garments.

I However, for fabrico with denign, plaid was a favorite for

skirts, and prints were favored for dresses. Table‘Vi
indicate: their color preference for their favorite coat,

suit, blouse, sweeter, skirt and dress.

37

My}.

 

COLOR AND DESIGN CHOICES

 

 

0 0:31:11»
oxguz Dov-sung:
358283“23322
a: n. a: a: t9 :2 :3 «o >. n. a. a.

Winter Cost 39 7 6 3 10 22 a O O 80 8 12
Spring Cost 30 19 0 13 0 1h 8 11 O 88 12 0
Favorite Suit 17 5 o u 11 o 8 o o 96 h 0
Favorite Blouse 3h 18 O 35 O 0 h h 0 73 12 15
Favorite Sweater 29 15 16 22 O 2 0 9 8 100 0 0
Favorite Skirt 15 O 22 0 3h 0 16 0 O 60 21 19
Favorite Dress 32 21 6 16 6 O 10 9 h h9 11 ho

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When asked why they chose the specific blouse, skirt,
and dress and indicated it as their "favorite'' most of those
interviewed said that they liked this particular iten.because
of its style end/or color. Eighty said that the skirt sea a

I'i'avorite" because of fit. Fiftybthree indicsted that it III
the fabric which made the dress a favorite for them.

When the girls were questioned about garments in
their wardrobes that had previously belonged to someone else,
it use found that costs. blouses, skirts and dresses were the
items most often mentioned. Sixtybseven stated that they
liked the garments that had been given to then. Thirty-three

38

stated that they disliked the garments that were given to
them and gave as their reasons: ”Did not fits" "Did not
have style3' I"l‘oo old:' or 'Too behyish.‘I

'The garments in their wardrobes that they did not
wear were shoes and skirts that did not fit, sweaters that
were badly stretched, dresses and suits that were out of
style, and shirts that were not pleasing in color.

in order to ascertain the ability of the girls to
Judge suitability of dress for various occasions, several
questions pertaining to suitability were included. The
students were asked to check the type of clothing they wore
to church, to work, and to special social functions, and
then to tell why they made these choices. Because of the
uniformity in their responses, the girls indicated that
they wish to conform to the accepted standards of suitability
for their age groups. Blouses or sweaters with skirts
were undoubtedly the most popular combination for all types
of activities, as can be seen in Table V11. Half of the
girls wore separates to church and to work, and three-
fourths of them wore them also for social activities.

Dresses ranked second in popularity for church
wear and social functions; but only twenty of the girls
chose dresses, and always cotton dresses, for wearing to
work. .As might be expected from differences in physical
_ maturity, the age difference between freshmen and senior

was noticeable in the wearing of suits. Twentybseven

39

seniors and twelve freshmen were then to church, and twelve
seniors and two freshaen wore them for social activities.
Only the few seniors who held office positions listed suits

for wearing to work.

I

mm

SUITABILITY OF mm roe VARIQJI OCCASIONS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o rch 'l'o Work Ice!“

~ on Sunde Activities
u - c A A? Ti 1r 1.4.1.42
Blouses or Sweaters

with shirts 31 21 16 3h he 3h
Dresses (wool, silk]

synthetic) T 16 23 o o 7 19
Dresses (cotton) 7 16 5 1h 8 1h
Shit. 12 27 0 h 2 I2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

er-«Freshmen sea-«Seniors

7——

. Reasons given for the above preferences were similar
for all occasions. Host frequently used were: 9A1ways
stylishz' “More comfortablex' “most girls wear the-3' 'oives
more variety)“ 'seems aost suitable for the occasion.“

For school dances and parties the girls rated as
unsuitable: sheer blouses, tight sweaters and tight skirts,
saddle shoes, and low cut dresses. The garments that they

considered unsuitable for basketball or football games

he

were: levis, shorts, blue Jeans, dressy dresses, tight
sweaters, bermudas, slacks, and boy's shirts tied around
the waist. Unsuitable garments which were listed as seen
worn in downtown Detroit were: sheer blouses, shorts,
bermudaa, levis, lowbnecked dresses, tight sweaters, sun
dresses, midriffs, halter type dressesa-and dirty shoesi

During the past summer there has been much dis“
cussion in our Detroit newspapers about the wearing of
shorts for shopping downtown. Most of the girls inter-
viewed felt that the only time that shorts were appropriate
was in the privacy of one's own home but never for street
‘wear. included with shorts were bermudas, not because
they were considered immodest but because the girls did
not think them becomingiy feminine. They were listed as
unsuitable and improper for shopping, for parties, for
street wear and for school activities.

Slacks were regarded as inappropriate for church,
school, dances, parties or when dining out or entertain-
ing visitors in the home. .All agreed that 'sun dresses“
should not be worn to church or school, and some ruled

them out for shopping excursions and dates.

.4. _stw 2:.
PREFERENCE FOR READY-'lQ-WEAR

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and“ ecoaeocunm

aencu uuuxa
an and» season
ion noouoon co
aqua oceanocunu
one among xoeum

oouooa

cu unmade

eoun «sumac one
pounce u—em

uuon xoeua
«xoeua cu conga
amuse vce
ecu—o0 sauna

 

Snub

 

«amaznhzouv HuH>

 

m4m¢fi

auoa

voodoo nuuuxe
eueanbam _uae
nee>eo~e ounces
nonuuxuoc nooom

anon Muse
«cause wouocaem
«ash noose» one»

«aux- em aeecu
nocuuiueunl uses
suoz «neoaobooum

be.xu assessed
«gum aeo>oo~e
cucuoe nocua
tango? nouoaoz

«use» umeunbam
"_ne .eesuuuaqes
«snobs: "one“
Loouoone noun

eufluw

ponco>oq

09mm

cocoa

mamee\oe~m

«bugs\xe.a

pouou

 

Xu

~=>

uH>

a)
“DOS

 

PREFERENCES POI-'1 nanny-19mm

.A group of ten dresses was used to determine in-
dividual preferences in color, line, and design as well as
for student evaluation of suitability for specific occasions,
serviceability and evaluation of workmanship. These dresses
were chosen by a research committee from Michigan State
University as typical of styles and fabrics available on
the current market for girls ranging in age from twelve to
eighteen. These dresses were chosen on the basic assumption
that there is rather a wide range of maturity among teen-age
girls. For that reason both girls' and teen-age sized
dresses were selected. .A comparable number were essentially
more sophisticated in styling than those from the children's
departments. in price range and fabric these dresses were
likewise representative of what teeneage girls would find
in stores it shopping for dresses.

in the interview schedule (see.Appendix B, page 113)
questions 36~50 were designed to determine student prefer-
ences based on ten ready-to-wear dresses. Questions 36-hl
were designed specifically to study preference in style
which included specifically structural design, trim, and
color; ua-uh were designed for their evaluation of workman-
ship] #5 for Judgment on fabric quality) h6-h7 for ease
of care: as for labels; and h9-50 on price-value relation-

ship based on combined quality of style, fabric, ease of
care, etCe

#5

For shopping downtown or other social occasions the
seniors indicated preference for dresses lli, VT, and ix,
which in structural line, neckline, color, and decorative
trim were more sophisticated and comparable to the dresses
worn by the older teenfage group. it is a general observa-
tion that freshmen girls differ in height, weight, figure
type, and maturity to a greater extent than the older ado-
lescent girl. An observer will note that some girls of
fourteen are still definitely"little girls" whereas others
no older see themselves in the role of a young lady; The
less mature girls chose dresses 1 and‘Vil, while the rest
of the freshman group showed preference for the same styles
as those chosen by the senior girls.

The workmanship of the dresses was Judged by examin-
ing the stitching of the seams, seam finishes, garment
placket, and hem finish. Because of the bound seams of
dress 1 and the machine edge stitched seams of dress Vii.
they were rated as superior in workmanship to the other
eight dresses. Dresses V’and x'were regarded as poor in
workmanship for the following reasons: the waistline and
armhole seams were badly frayed; a long machine stitch was
used on the placket opening: and the side seams were not
evenly’stitched.

Three dresses were rated as very poor in their
decorative trim. They indicated that dresses 1V} V, and
‘Vill were displeasing in color combination. The black and

no

white embossed cotton, dress 1V} was displeasing in color
combination to them because of the mustard color used for
the collar and belt. They thought the different reds com-
bined in dress V’were not harmonious. The inset in the
skirt of dress Vlll was disliked, and their comments inu
dicated that they did not think the inset was good in gar.
ment design. They likewise indicated their dislike for
the cap sleeve of this dress.

For questions h6~h7 which concerned their evaluation
of the iaunderability of the dresses, both groups indicated
dress rv. the black and white printed cotton with mustard
yellow trim and rhinestones as one which would not launder
well. They thought the polished cotton would lose its
gloss, that the raised design would flatten in laundering,
and the rhinestones would present an additional laundering
problem. Dress‘v, the red denim, was also considered poor
in lsundcrabllity. They thought that the fabric would
fade and that it would not iron well. Dress x, the lavender
acetate faille, was considered very poor in launderability.
Dry cleaning was the method suggested for this dress.

When questioned about the labels 'wrinkl-Shed' and
'Everglase,‘ the freshman group was unaware of the meaning
of the terms. Many stated that they did not'know, and from
the response of those who guessed at the meaning, the in-
vestigator was convinced that the freshman group had not

learned how to interpret informative labels in the shopping

h?

in which they had participated. When questioned further as
to the care that should be given the garment labeled as
'Wrinki-Shed,' or whether this finish would affect the
laundering and ironing, the freshmen definitely showed their
lack of knowledge in this regard. Most of the seniors knew
the meaning and significance of the labels because they had
been enrolled in clothing classes and had studied the mean-
ing of different labels in their classes.

Good fabric, pleasing style, and good workmanship
were the reasons given by the senior girls for Judging the
best value in terms of price. The freshmen in considering
the best value in terms of price did not include workman-
ship in their evaluation. The investigator thought the
senior girls, many of whom had earned the money which they
spent for clothing, were more cognizant of quality of fabric,
ease of care, and workmanship as desired qualities. The
freshmen girls actually had had less experience in making
their own choices and were more subjective in their evalu-
ation as their interest was essentially for becomigness.
Apparently ease of care had not been a major concern in
their experience, and total durability had been a minor

CORCO rn e

us
£122E!IHEEEEEEEEE§§HAEEHEAI£EQHEEBEEQEflrfiflgfiflgfiiSEEQEEEEE

£531

 

. y
Fabrics nine end white cotton "
gingham ‘

Trim: White orgendy collar
trimmed with pique;
cluster of flowers:
eeif belt

Lehell ‘Vrinki-Shed

Price: $h.98

 

   
   
   
 

3::
‘m

&

“in;
figITWllli

 

K.
NIll'

      

. ' -
Q
‘5. '2 v ...

   

_iTiT'. _ -

I'

w

PREFERENCES
gggtebiigtg for shopping downtown or eociei occasions:

Selected by. immature freehmen typee
ReJected my: eii senior girie

grim: rated es e pieeeing aomhinetion

Workmenehiz: reted excellent beceuee of the bound eeeme end
neet etitching

Launderebigitxi rated as good
{rice thuei rated ee goad

’49

mess 1;

Fabric: Light and dark gray
cotton broadcloth

Trim: Peter Pan collar;
bright yellow piping
on collar, cuffs.
and yoke

Pf1303 $3e98

 

PREFERENCES

§uitsbilitx for shopping downtown or other social occasions:
Rejected by: both groupe

was rated as a pleasing combination

Workmanshig: rated as fair because of the frayed seams
Leunderahilitx: rated as good

Price value: rated as good

go

Fabric: Gray and white stripe
cotton gingham

Trim: White pique collar
and cuffs, red tie,
narrow red belt

Label: Wrinkl-Shed

Price: $7.95

 

 

PREFERENCES

m

Suitabilitx for shopping downtown or for social occaaione:

Selected by: nature freshmen t s and all seniorgirls
Rejected by: immature treehmen ypes

Trim: rated as excellent because of. the pleasing color
combinations

workmanship: rated as good
Laggdsrabilitze rated as good'

[gice value: rated as good

Fabric: Black and white
printed cotton

Trim: Mustard yellow col-
lar, yellow belt
piped in black.
rhinestone in the
bodice

Label: Embossed
P"033 $7e95

 

 

ZREFERENCES
guitability for shopping downtown or for social occasions:

Rejected by: both groups
Irim: rated as a very poor color combination
Workmanship:' rated as good

Launderagilitx: rated as poor, because it was thought that
the black would bleed

Price vglug: rated as poor because or the lack of style
qualities

.Efléiél!

Fabric: Jumperoored denim
Dickieoored broad~
cloth ~

Trim: White piped collar:
white buttons, red
leather belt

Price: $6.95 I

 

gggranaucss
Suitability for shopping downtown or for social occasions
Rejected by: both groups
‘Igig: rated as poor because of the lack of color harmony

woryggnghig: rated as poor because of frayed seams, large
machine stitching, and sleeves puckered in
the armholes

W: rated as poor because it was thought the
red would fade and it would not iron sell

Pricg value: rated as poor because of the lack of style
qualities

53

Fabric: Pink and white glazed
Chintz

Trim: White collar, cuffs,
and bodice front
piped in black: black
suede belt

Price: $7.95

 

 

_ EREFERENCES
guitabilitx;for shopping downtoen or for social occasions:

Selected by: mature freshmen types and all senior girls
Rejected by: immature freshman types

Trim: rated as a very’pleaeing combination

‘ngkmanehig: rated as Good
Launderabilitx: rated as good

Price'Value: rated as good

 

Fabric: Blue and white nylon
sheer

 

Trim: Collar and cuff: of
self material, bias
stripe in the bodice

'f‘C03 $7e95 I

A—
4

 

r‘ -h— “.—

W
W for social occasions:

Selected my: immature freshmen types
Rejected by: mature freshmen types and all seniers

Irimi rated as a very pleasing combination

‘Ior h : rated as superior because of the machine
. finished seems and the neatly finished details

Launderabigltz: .rated as good

Price value: rated as good

55

Fabric: Peach cotton broad-
cloth

Trim: Black braid and
rhinestones trim‘
yoke and inset:
black ribbon: clus-
ter of flowers

Price: $h.98

 

grammes
Suitability for social occasions:
Rejected by: both groups .
w: Skirt trim rated as poor in design. dislike of

cap sleeve
worgggnghgg: rated as good because of the neatly stitched
seams _

Laundegabiligx: rated as good

Price‘value: rated as good

.‘

mn-

b

mm

Fabric: blue embossed cetton
Trim: Narrow band cellar:
corded ties on
sleeves: self belt
rhinestones in bed as
Label: Everglase

Price: $7.95

 

 

 

56

 

 

2 “tagging for social occasions:

Selected by: nature freshmen types and all seniors
Rejected by: inature freshnen types

M: rated as excellent

M: rated as good
W3 '““ as 9°“
m m: rated as good

 

Fabric: Lavender acetate
faille

Trim: ‘ Scoop neckline piped . .
in purple: pi‘ d
sleeves: purp e
corded be t

Price: $7.95

 

 

 

W for social «mm...

Selected by: seniors
Rejected by: freshmen

M: rated as a pleasing color combination

s r : rated as poor because of the badly*frayee
‘ seams and the uneven stitching

W: rated as poor: dry cleaning see suggested
gzice value: rated as good

58

«codes: .33
moo.—

 

 

38 .82 v30 9833 x
38 .63 .83 05:85 3853852.. 5
38 38 .38 .82 396 «32.2 :9
once 33 322.3 95285 33...: =>
.58 33 38 £83.98 concessions-3.. g

noon has» . boom be, soon seem mocha census: >

doom 3e.— vooc noon mecca «ensue: a
.33 e80 wood «528nm nuoucofeoeaata a:
33 .88 he. 38 96.3 8572 S
vane 33 822?... 2.283 concur... u

a g g :2» a

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m.

g

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59

mm.

Questions :3 to 27 were designed to determine the
buying practices of the one hundred girls interviewed. in-
dependence in shopping. the extent to which clothing was
purchased ready-made, the type of stores and method of
pament. the sources that influenced their choices, and a
comparison of their clothing in cost. style and number with
that of their friends were studied. An analysis of this
data follows.

To ascertain the degree of independence the girls
had in shopping, each girl was asked to check the specific
items of clothing which she most frequently purchased by
herself as well as these for which she and her mother or
father shopped together. This data is mind in
Table x. Winter coats. suite. and dresses were the clothing
items which were most frequently shopped for by the girl
and her mother. blouses. sweaters. slips. shoes. and hose
were items which the girl purchased alone. it is evident
that the seventeen-year-old senior girls made many more
purchases independently than the freshmen who were three
years younger.

Eleven seniors and twenty of the freshmen girls
indicated that when they shopped for clothing with their
mothers. the final decisions were made by the mother.

The specific factors in order of frequency on which the

60

girl and her mother disagreed.were: style, color. fabric,

fit of garment. and price.

Table X indicates the buying

practices for both major and minor items in their wardrobes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

233.5
no inn: nnrsngng

Winter Coat .{ ’.% ’3 g.% 33 gig ‘2 ..%_
hall. 3 11: O O 26 l8 1: l
Blouses 33 39 5 l 12 :o O 0
Sweaters 23 39 6 o :7 6 o 0
Shirts l8 3h. 0 0. 28 :6 o o
Dressesr 6 12 o O 36 38 2 0
slips 2h 25 ll. :0 l5 l5 0 o
Hosiery 31; 36 7 ll 7 0 0
Shoes 27 28 O 0 l9 , 20 ll 2
sr--Preshmcn ease-Seniors

“NM

The extent to which clothing was purchased ready»
made is indicative of the trend away from seeing in the home.
.A partial reason for this trend may be the fact, pointed

' out earlier. that thirtybeight of the mothers were employed

part or fullatime outside the home.

6i

it was found that

from eighty to ninetyuone percent of the costs, suits,

street and party dresses, blouses, shirts and sweaters were

frequently purchased ready-made.

Home sewing was not in-

dicated as a wide-spread practice in the homes from which

these girls came.

Table Xi summarises the types of gar-

ments and the frequency of purchasing them ready-made.

TABLE 25;

 

. manure memos!) READYuliADE

 

Coats

Suits

Street Clothes
Party Clothes
Blouses

skirts

Sweaters

Frequently

 

 

Usually Never
9i 5 l
85 i0 5
83 ll 6
86 lh. 0
80 l2 8
8i lh
100 O O

 

 

 

 

Because so many of‘the mothers have apparently never

learned to sew; alterations on readybteuwear garments have
Sixty of the girls admitted that they
would not be allowed to buy'a garment on which aajer altera-

presented problems.

tions were needed.

Pertybfour of the one hundred girls

stated that they'never needed alterations on the garments

 

62
they'purchased. For the tiftybsia'eho required alterations.
'tiitybone had the alterations mode at home. the remaining
five having them made in the store share the purchase was
made. Thirtybone of the mothers made the necessary altera-
tions on their daughters' clothing. and five girls made
their own alterations. in thirteen instances sons other
member of the tamily altered the garments.

it was indicated that two-thirds of the one hundred
girls interviewed seldom or never shopped in downtoon
Detroit for their clothing. Because Detroit is a very large
city) it has many excellent neighborhood shopping centers.
Table Xi! indicates that sixtybsin percent usually shopped
either at the neighborhood specialty or department stores;
about one-fourth at the large department stores downtown;

and approximately one-tenth patronized specialty shops.

laékéuzil
grams: mom wagcg grams 3; manszn

nasal l1 golden Never

 

 

Dovntovn department stores, as

Hudson's, Kern's, Crowley's 2h 3h 12
Downtosn specialty shops as

Lerner, Hemilhoch lo 30 h9
Neighborhood department stores

as Federal, sears, Wards 36 20 15
Neighborhood specialty shops 30 i6 2h
Mail Order Houses 0 0 0

Total 100 ’ zoo zoo

 

 

 

 

63

Eightybseven of the girls indicated that they looked
in several stores before making e major clothing purchase.
while eleven indicated they seldom shopped in several stores
before purchasing.

it has aleays been interesting to knos'vhat influences
teen-age girls in the purchase of specific garments. The
freshman group differed considerably from the seniors in
respect to the impact of the respective factors. Three-
feurths of the total number of interviewees indicated window
displays and magazines of greatest and/or comparable sign
nificance. Slightly'mors than one-half indicated parental
influence and style shoes as next in importance. Clothing
‘eorn by their girl friends see mentioned by three times as
many of the freshmen girls as by seniors. Twice as many
freshmen as seniors indicated their parents as influencing
their selections. Senior girls were obviously much more
influenced by magazines. otyle shows, window displays and
newspapers than by their parents or girl friends. sales-
people apparently were ineffective in influencing many of
these teen-agers. Tobie Xlil summarises the various inp

fiaenees.

TABLE XII!

\ commons g; minnow; 93; cwmgno cnoxcag

 

 

 

Freshmen Seniors Total
Store Window'Displays uh 3h ' 78
magazines 33 #2 75_
Style Shows V 22 30 52
Parents “ 35 15 50
Newspapers ‘ i9 26 nus
Clothing worn by girl friend 30 10 to
'Best Girlfriend . 21 9 3o
Store‘Patterns . 8 lb 2h
mu omn- Catalogs in 5 :9
Sales Clerks ' 12 5 l7

 

 

 

 

Practically all of the freshmen girls said that their
parents paid for all or a part of their clothing, whereas
about one-half of the seniors accepted full financial re.
sponsibility for their clothing expenditures. Gifts of
clothing seemed negligible.

‘ For minor items of clothing, such on lingerie, hose,
or blouses, it was found that eighty-four of the girls paid
cash, and fifteen used a charge account. Only one used the
laybawny plan of payment. in major purchases such as costs,

suits, or party dresses, thirtyueight paid cash, twentyheight

65

used a charge account, and thirty-four used the iayboway
plan. Twentybtwo of those interviewed indicated that they
frequently purchased garments at special or clearance sales.
Fortybnine seldom, and twenty'never purchased apparel at
'special' sales. .

When considering the price range from which they pur-
chased party dresses, it was interesting to note the dif-
ference between the two groups. Twentybeight seniors, but
only'seven freshmen girls indicated they paid over $15 for
party dresses. For other dresses less than 57 was paid
hy thirtybseven freshmen and twentybone seniors, and more
than $7 was paid by thirteen freshmen and twentybnine
senior girls. The evident difference in the price range
for the two groups can be explained by'the fact that the
older girls are more active eocisilyiand feel the need of
dressior clothes for party and date wear. The more informal
sociel activities of the younger group does not require the
more expensive type of dress. five freshmen girls indicated
that they did not own a 'party dress.“

66

m ......x1v

cv—

Pngco RANGE [on TEEN-ago mgsss

 

m Dresses
Freshmen Seniors
5 “In-MO 26 6
ll-- in. 12 16
lS-- 20 6 22
am- 20' ' l 6
Q3113; bases!

5 2m$ 5 18 7
6-- 7 19 1h
3... 9 9 15

Over 9 ll lh

in response to the question so to whether or not they
‘would like to spend considerabiy'more than they are now
spending on clothes, eight freshmen girls indicated they
would like to spend considersbiy'more, thirtyeeight enmeshet
more, end four would have preferred to spend somewhat less.
in the senior group, it was found that two wished to spend
considerably more, thirty somewhat more, and eighteen

somewhat lees.

67

Table XV indicates titty-rive. titty. and sixty-ens
ei‘ the total interviewees felt that in number. east, and
style their clothes are eenparahle to these at their best
friend. tiers oi‘ the freshmen girls felt that they had
{ever and less expensive clothes. Appraaieateiy forty or
the senior girls regarded their sardrobs as seneshat er very
much better than that or their best friend as compared to
less than twenty of the freshmen girls.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

m 5!.
WW?" °" T‘W M
w 'v ‘ 1 w gm ;F—

Number .a Cost of style or

garments 3 garments 3 garments 3

or as P- er «a ,2 or see ,2
Very much better 3 3 6 2 5 7 l B 9
Somewhat better ' 3 16 i9 8 at 29 5 la 17
has as 29 26 55 29 21 50 37 2h 61
telecast less good l3 1; 17 lo 3 l3 3 h 1
Not nearly as good as 2 '1 3 1 1 t 2 6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

”afresh-en “dealers

69
INVENTORY

The validity of informstion from.an inventory check
list was questioned hy’the investigator because frequently'
that information is secured essentially'through recall.
Another oritieima of inventories is that one is doubtful
as to whether or not a completely truthful statement has
been nade--particularly'if the interviewee feels her
clothing to he less adequate in quality and/or quantity
than that of her friends. in order to minimise these factors
in this study. the student use given an inventory check
-sheat which see to he filled out at home. The check sheet
was designed to supply'tha following information! number
of garments in specific categories, approximate cost,
color, time of purchase. and fabric.

At the time these sheets were distributed, explanation
as to the procedure to he followed sea given. The invsso
tigator made clear that the actual physical checking of their
vsrdrohe see to include those garments hanging in storage-
that is. vinter garments as well as those currently in use.
As motivation. it was suggested that checking the inventory
sheet would serve a dual purpose in that it would serve as
an actual physical check on their complete wardrobe. and
likewise provide the opportunity and/or necessity for re-

organisation ef hanging space in their clothes closet.

70

The investigator tried to make clear that the use

to be made of the information secured frosnths inventory
check list see not to be analysed on an individual basis.
but rather as a survey of shat constituted typical quantity;
quality; and prices paid for various garments. it see the
hope of the investigator that the girls be honest as to the
quantity. quality; and cost recorded fer the specific items.

A Certain inadequacies in any'evaiuation of inventories
are recognised. however, it.aes the intent that this in-
ventory be essentially objective incharacter and that sub-
.Jective evaluation be minimised. .An analysis of the data
from the one hundred inventories in this'aurvey’indicates
preferences as well as buying practices. Discussion of

that analysis follovs.

71

Table XVI. the inventory data on winter coats. shoes
that both age groups purchased approximately'the same number
of einter coats. More than twice as many senior girls oened
teo costs. The seniors also paid more for their costs but
sore than approximately the same length of time. Blue and
red predominated as the preferred colors. Plain fabric
was significantly.preferred to fabric with design.

‘wm
Wm gunman

Freshmeni Seniors

 

Naming 9; None 5 l
o'c'o""a"'1:_s_ One 33 29
, “*" Teo 22

r cs Range ‘Under $15 l?
315 to 20 29 a
over $20 2 7
Eite‘g£_ Less than one year 23 36
re so More than one year 37 37
ggigrg Blue 20 2i
Red 1% ll
Green l
Gray' 5 i2

Others 2

Plaid 9

8
gang Plain - ha 6%
* Print 2 S

72

Blue was predominately the color choice for the mid-
sesson coats. Summarised dots in Table XVII shows that
three-fourths of the girls have only one mid-season cost.
However. three times as many seniors as freshmen have more
than one. The price range in which the two groups purchased
was significantly different. Fortybfive of the fortyeeight
coats owned by the seniors cost over twenty'dollarss whereas.
forty of the fortybfive costs ovned by freshmen girls cost
less than twenty dollars.

my. _......xvu
NEW 2: nae-3.5m 0" m

Freshmen Seniors

 

 

Numhe 0 None 5 2

cos i "" One 140 3
Tee 5 1;
Three 0

Erica Range Under- $15 5
$15 to 320 fi 15
0ver $20 to L1;

Dats 0 Less than one r 21 38

zircfiiée More than one 3::r 29 26

E2!°£' niue l9
white 6 f?
Beige l 9
Red A - 5
Others l9 l5

Plaid u

luugyn; Plain 58 5%
Print 2 3

73

Table XVlll. a summary on sports Jackets. indicates
that nineteen students did not own a sport Jacket; hut
sixty'giris owned one; and teentyeone girls owned two
Jackets. None of the freshmen girls paid more than ten
dollars for a sports Jacket, whereas more than one-half of
the Jackets owned by the seniors cost over ten dollars.
Beth age groups wore them for approximately the same length

of time. Blue and black were the preferred colors.

TABLE XVI};

 

ngw

 

Preshmsn Seniors

 

Humbug 3; None .123 39
:Iacge} One 0
J! Two i0 il
Three 2 - 0

$19; Under t S 30 13
an e $5 to $10 2h 17
Over th ' 0 20

De '2;, Less than one year 33 3O

. rcha e More than one year 2i 25
Colors Blue 20 it)
Black 33 9

Red 10 6

White 3 6

7h
Table XIX gives details on another favorite outer-

wear garment. the cardigan sweater. it was significant that
a comparable number of freshmen and seniors owned one or two
cardigan sweaters. however, more seniors had two or more
sweaters per individual. Fifty seniors. compared to twelve
freshmen girls. owned one sweater in the five to nine dollar
ninetybnine price range. The majority of freshmen girls
purchased sweaters costing five dollars and less. Although
blue was the predominant color choice, many other colors
'were popular. Orion.wes the fiber choice of both groups

for cardigan sweaters.

1m: 5;;

gmmonx 9; magnum 5m ms

 

Freshmen Seniors

Number 9-; None 7 h
Sweaters One 2i lh
Two 20 25
Three or Four 2 7
gzice Range $0 to 3 h.99 52 i9
55 ' i 9.99 22 so
07" $l°e 1 “4.
Gift 2 5
Date .9; Less than one year 11,2; 72
[greases more than one year 23 lb
Color! Blue 22 20
Red 13 12
White l2 ii
Beige 8 16
Green 6 ll
Block . i i2
Brown 5 6
Elgar Orion 37 55
Nylon 20 28

“EEUL _fl 9&9 _Ji.._._..

 

Table xx indicates that twice as many seniors as
freshmen girls owned a raincoat. None of the freshmen
girls paid over ten dollars for this garment while more

than one-half of the seniors paid more than that amount.

75

 

 

ThBLE‘fig
[EEENTORILQE_BAINCOAI§
Freshmen Seniors
Number of None 35 20
a ncoe One i5 29
A Two 0 l
P cs Ran s Under $10 15 8
‘J'L‘TJ" Over no 0 17
Gift 0 S
Date‘gg Less than one year 8. 19
Purchase Here then one your 7 ll
- Colors White 3 6
Blue 3 8
Green 2 6
Beige h 5
Gray' 3 5

76

The significance of age was apparent in the number
of suits owned. See Table XXI. The total of thirtybtwo
suits. the limited wearing time, and the comparatively low
price paid showed that suits were not preferred by;the
younger girls. in contrast. oniy'eight seniors did not own
a suit, and one-third of them owned two or more suits. Of
the suits owned by the seniors an equivalent number paid
twenty'dollars or more as compared to those who paid less
than twenty'doilars. While bias was again the predominat-
ing color choice in both groups, gray and beige were also
favored colors. ‘About four-fifths of their salts were of

plain fabric, and approximately'onc-flfth‘were of plaid

 

 

 

design.
TABLE'zfig
W 911 m
Freshmen Seniors

Number 91 None 18 12

Eufis One 32
Two 0 l9
Three or More 0 7
'Prgcc Range under $20 29 35
$20 to $30 1 17
Over $30 0 19
Gift. 2 7
'Dato‘gg Less than one year 29 #5
rchasc More than one year i 33
Colors Blue 16 30
Gray h 17
Beige 2 17
Pink 7 7
Others 3 18
Design. Plain 2i 65
Plaid 9 ll
Print 0 2

_r v.

Only eleven of the fifty freshmen interviewed had

wool dresses in their wardrobe. According to Table XXil

77

nearly'three times as many seniors as freshmen girls owned

wool dresses, and fifteen of the thirty owned more than

one. None of the younger girls paid over $20, but one-third

of the wool dresses owned by the seniors cost over that

amount. Blue remained the favorite color.sdth brown

ranking as their second choice.

see almost a unanimous choice.

Number‘gg

WOO P8558!
- W

ggice Range

ZABEE XXI!

1mm? 9; woa. onsssss

None

One

Over two
Under $10
$10 to $20
$21 to 30
Ovor 30

Less than one year

more than one year \

Blue
Brown
Pink
Others

Plain
Plaid .
Print

Freshmen

u
'4

g s-- 0-.
NO aroma Oe- OON-P' Os-

Plain design in fabric

l9
16

15

6
3h
12

38
22
20
11

7
22

6O
8

5

Seniors

78

Table XXlii bears evidence to the successful promo-
tion and the popularity'of cotton fabrics. if this study
is indicative of teen-age preferences. it is safe to say’
that the average seventeenwyear-oid girl owns at least three
cotton dresses. and her fourteen-year-old sister osns at
least tee. More than one-half of the dresses owned by the
older girls cost over ten dollars while about five-sixths
of those osned by the freshmen girls cost less than ten
dollars. The preference for many'light and bright colors
of plaid or print fabrics sea greater for cotton dresses

thanfor any'other type of garment found in their wardrobe.
nee 2on1
W 2: m 2.433353

Freshmen Seniors

 

Number'gg’ One l8 4E
greases Two 8 l
Three 10 ih
Four 5
Over four 3 20
[rice Range $0 to 3 .99 6 O
om h
teigg, Less than one year 75 llO
rc ass More than one year 29 514.
Color! Blue 30 59
Pink 26 20
Red ll 23
White 6 l5
Others 37 h2
Qagigg Plain Si
Plaid . 22 2%

Print 31 52

79

Special occasion dresses of synthetic fabric were
aorn.more by the older than younger girls. according to the
sumarieed data in Table XXIV. Onsothird of the dresses
'worn hy’the freshmen and two-thirds of'the dresses'worn hy
senior girls cost over ten dollars. Pink and blue were
favored hy'ail the girls. and white was a preferred color
of the freshmen girls.

 

 

 

WM?” mwwma
, Emma lesion
Jumbo of None 1 l
cs e"" One l3 HE
' Two 7 9
Three 0 5
over three 6 9
ggicg flange $0 to 8 h 99 5 3
$5 to ”0:00 29 21
W0? $60e00 l? 55
Gift 7 9
Dogo'QL’ Less thanone year A6 63
urc as More than one year l2 '25
Cglggg Blue 17 3h
Pink 11 15
White Tll %
Black A
Red 5 5
Others 10 21
9mg; Plain 23 Mt
Plaid 9 12
Print 26 22

#

 

___4 __ f M

 

80

‘. Tshle XXV indicstes thst the number of cotton blenses
in the eerdrobes or both senior and freshmen groups use can-
.psrehle. Beceuee shite blooess were worn'vith the school
uniform, the number or shite blouse: did net seem exceed-
ingiy high. Esoh girl hsd spproximetely three shite uniform
blouses for school seer but en equal number or white or
colored blouses for user outside or school. The meJority or
blouses owned were perohssed tron.the three to five eeller

price rsnge.

 

 

 

mm
mgmw
Freshmen Seniors

Number r m S 3
'SIouses'o" Three 1 3
“'m ' Four ' 5 5
Five 19 25
Six ~ 5 5
- over six l9 l6
[rice Range $0 to $2.99 103 30
$3 to $5.00 1&3 i 8
Over $5.00 33 7
‘ Gift l7 lh

Date o~ Less then one er 23k 27
Pfirchize More then one ;:sr 62 5%
Colgrs White 160 205
Blue ' uh. 32
Pink 39 28
Red l9 lS
, Others 3h 39

Design - Plein, 200 2 l
Pisid 3h 30
Print 62 8

‘ . . 81

The number of synthetic blouses in the wardrobes of
both groups indicates that almost one-fourth of the one
hundred girls did not own a synthetic blouse. At least one-
holf of the group owned at least two. The majority of
blouses cost more than four dollars. [Although white was
their predominant color choice, other light and bright
colors were favored. Nylon, orlon. and dacron.swre the

fiber choices; and plain fabric was preferred to plaids

 

 

 

 

 

or prints.
mats xxv:
gammy 95 S'm'i‘HETIC 31.01553
W Freshmen Seniors 9*

Number 35 None 114. 8
Siousce One 17 15
Two 7 12
Three or more 12' 15
Price Range $0 to $3.99 28 36
over $7.00 0 25
Gift 18 9
Dateugg Less than one year 58 69
'FEFEhaso More than one year 19 29

Colors White no
Pink 12 %%
Blue 15 12
Green g. 6
Others 18
Fiber Nylon us on
Dacron 11 18
Orion 18 10
Rayon 2 6
Design Plain 51 88
‘ Plaid 18 10

Print 8 0

82

The popularity of shirts in tho teeneage wardrobe is
indicated by‘the data in Tables XXVi and XXVii. The one
hundred girls interviewed had in their wardrobes a total of
three hundred eightybfive cotton skirts and four hundred
teentyutwo woolen skirts. The 'average' freshman girl
probably owned at least four cotton skirts and three woolen
skirts. For the senior girls the ratio of cotton to woolen
was in revaree. .Ae for other garments the seniors, in
general, paid more for their shirts than the freshmen. .A
elder variety’in color and printed fabrics use significantly
popular for cotton skirts. The older girl definitely’pre-
ferred tho straight line style for her woolen skirts and
either gathered or pleated styles for her cotton skirts.
The younger girl showad no special etyle preference for
her woolen skirts but did prefer the gathered or pleated

style in her cotton skirts.

mm

 

'— fiw ‘

grmmonx Q: comm SKIRTS

Freshmen Seniors

Number'gg Oo~2 13 7
sn’ It!!! 3-05 31 29
' Over 5 6 15
Price Range under $3 25 l
53 to £5 89 9%
Over $5 hi 98
.Oiit l2 9
Date ot Less then one ar l78 l5
Eurcfiigs more then one 33a: ho g
Cglorg Blue #9 57
Red 21 21
Green 23 13
White i 2i
Black lo 18
Others ha 88
Design Plain 56 83
Print 79 .. 9
Pleid 32 3
gtzle Gathered Bl 70
Circular 52 28

Pleated . 85 . 69

 

TABLE XXVIII‘

 

w. v-‘v—

INVENTORX g WOOL SKIRTS

 

Freshmen Seniors

Number 9i O--2 10 it
sEIrEs 3--5 3? ho
Over 5 O 9
Price Range $0 to $3.99 lh 9
$h to $7.00 132 108

Gift 15
Date 2;} Less than one year 16a ‘ l7h
Purchase More than one year 20 63
Cgiors Blue 5h 39
Gray 39 69
Black 35 h9
‘Brown 22 h3
Green 12 15
Others 22 23
Qeaign Plain 97 l 8
Field Si 8
Print ' 36 l2
a Straight 9 tho
m;- Full 33 1&9
Pleated 22 29

 

85

Judging by the one hundred girls interviewed in this
survey, the ’average' teen-age girl owns from three to five
sweaters. Orion, nylon, and wool were in that frequency
indicated as their choice of fiber. The cashmere sweaters
averaged from fifteen to twenty dollars in price while
orlon, nylon, and wool sweaters averaged from four to ten
dollars in cost. Although blue was their preferred color
choice. many other light colors were likewise popular.

This data is_summarised in Table XXIX.

TABLE XXIX

xuvauronrggg_swnnrana

‘_ ‘—

Preahmen seniors

 

Number 9-!- one 18 10
awegterg 3..§ 27 31
Over 5 5 9
Price Range $0 to $3.99 39 20
$1.; t. $Se99 63 88
CV“? $6.00 78
Gift 19 :5
Bat ‘21, Less than one year 152 165
are as Here then one year 18 35
Color Blue 55 53
'""""'.' Whi te 32 35
Green 28 ll
Pink 2i i;
Yellow 17 1
Brown 20 10
Others 23 26
Piggr Orion 92 88
Nylon 36 us
Wool 29 5
Dacron 9

Cashmere a lo

£6

The inventory of their everyday shoes lacked special
significance because saddle shoes were required with the
school uniform. Table xxx shoes that most of the girls
owned two or more pairs of dress shoes for which they usually
paid between five and eight dollars. Senior girls preferred
black, white, or brown. The freshmen added blue to the

list of favored colors.

 

 

IABLE‘figfi
1mm 9; monsss aw.
Freshmen Seniors

Number 3; $3: lg :0
pairs 0
Three 22 l9
Over three 0 ll
' Price Range to to n.99 M 11
$5 to 7e99 57 92
Over 3 .00 . 13 35
Date‘ggl Less than one year 10h lll
z§rchgse More than one year 8 21
Colors Black h5 56
"' ” White 29 39
Brosn la l8
Blue 1 8
Others l5 ll

 

CHI: PTER V

, This survey was designed to secure specific infor-
mation on the purchasing practices and factors influencing
choices in the clothing of one hundred high school girls.
An equivalent number of freshmen and senior girls was se-
lected for this survey to ascertain if clothing choices at
the two-age-levels were significantly different.

Personal data indicated that the two groups have
comparable sects-economic backgrounds. The majority of the
fathers were employed as skilled or semi-skilled laborers.
Only six out of a total of ninety-three belonged in a pro-
fessional classification. Thirtybeight of the one hundred
mothers were engaged in fulletimo or part-time‘worh outside
the home. More than one-half of these girls case from
families with three or less children. thirtybthree from
families with three to six children and eleven from families
with six or more children. The age of the other children
in these families was predominately younger than the inter.
viewees.

Sixtybeight of the one hundred girls were engaged
in part—time employment. it was indicated that eightye
five percent of the money they earned was spent for clothing.

Responses on the type of garment preferred for '
school wear indicated that the majority preferred the re-
quired school uniform. .Although the wearing of the uniform

88

see a requirement. they did not consider it a violation

-sf their independence of choice. Both groups felt that

the style sea attractive and becoming to the majority of
the girls. Minor changes in style or design were suggested.

There were no significant differences between the
two age groups in their stated preferences in style. color,
er design. Color, cost. and style were sf primary concern
to the majority of girls. Cost of upkeep and/or ease of
care and fiber content ears of relative unimportance. The
preferred color for costs, dresses, and sweaters was blue.
‘vhite see preferred for blouses. _

Separates were favored by the freshmen girls for
practically all activities. The wardrobe inventory of the
seniors showed a wider variety of garments for their re-
spective activities. They preferredsweaters and skirts
for work, but suits and dresses were preferred for church
and social activities.

.Approximately‘one-half of the total interviewees
felt their personal wardrobes were comparable in number,
cost, and style to those of their best girl friends. More
freshmen girls felt that they had fewer and less expensive
clothes than their peers. .Approxlnatcly forty senior girls
regarded their wardrobes as somewhat or very much better
than thcir host girl friends. Only twenty freshmen girls
thought similarly.

89

Anelyeie or their buying precticee reweeied that
epproxineteiy eighty-rive of the one hundred girle per-
cheeed all or their clothing reedybmede.

‘ Although the majority indiceted thet they were per-
mitted freedom in the eelection or their clothing, eighty
girle conenlted with emcne regarding their clothing neede.
Perent'u advice wee eoiicited in determining neede end wae
eleo eought in melting epecii‘ic eelectione and purcheeee.

Hore than three-fonrthe indicated one or beth perente

ehopped with then. in their eelectlon ot ciothee.‘i’reehnen
girle are influenced by window dieplaye. parente, end the
clothing or their girl triende. The out eigniricent tectore
of influence en the choicee oi’ the aenier girle were negeeinee
end window diepiaye.

Data concerning the type of etore patronized revealed
thet porcheeee were moat frequently made in neighborhood
etoree rether than in the downtown department atoree. Ap-
proximately one-third alwaye or frequently peid ceeh tor .
the more expeneiwe apparel itene ae coete er eoite. Twenty-
eight eeed e charge ecconnt, and thirtybtonr the ley-ewey
plan of payment. Minor epperel items ee hoee end lingerie
were caah purchaeee.

it wee eigniticent that one-half of the eenior girie
accepted full financial reeponeibiiity in their clothing
expendituree. The perente er the i’reehnen girie peid for
all or a part or their clothing.

90

.Analyeie of the one hundred wardrobe inventoriea
ehowed that. on the average. every girl owned at leaet one
winter coat, mid-eeaeon coat. cardigan eweeter and eynthetic
blouee. ‘Approximately'one-fifth of the entire group did not
own a eport Jacket, and onevheif did not own a raincoat or
'wooi dreee. Each girl had approximately'three eweetere end
two paire of dreee ehoee. tech eenior owned epprenimateiy
three cotton dreeeee and each freehnan two cotton dreeeee.
On the average, each girl owned three white and three
colored bloueee. ,The average freehman girl owned four cot-
ton ekirte end three woolen ekirte. The.averege eenior
owned three cotton ekirte and four woolen ekirtei

findinga in this eurwey indicate that the clothing
purcheeee and buying precticee of the high echool etudente
in Servite high.8chooi were comparable to thoee etudied by
Leaeh in her Milwaukee atudy and Roener in her etudy made
in Chicago. Style end color preferencee. evoluation.of
their werdrobee in terne of thoee of their peere and in.
dependence in ehopping were aimiiar in all of thoee etudiee.
The meet eignificant difference wee the higher percentage
of readybtodwear purchaeee in the Detroit etudyi Both the
Detroit and Milwaukee etudiea indicated greater independence
in ehopping among eeniore than wee ehown in the Chicago
etudy.

91
CHAPTER VT
CONCLUSIONS

Baeed on the evaluation of the findinge of thie eur-

vey'of clothing preferencee and buying practicee of one

hundred high echooi etudente the following conclueione were

drawn:

1.

2.

. 3.

h.

S.

The group which wae etudied wae honoge~
noue with einiiar eocio-econenic beck-
grounde.

There wee eigniflcent conformity in the
wardrobes of theee girle in the number,
type, and kind of germente.

For eightybfiwe percent of the girle.
the wearing of the echool unifornnwae
not coneidered a violation of their in-
dependence in choice of clothing.

The ecnior girle in thie etudy ehowad
eignificantly greater independence in
clothing choicee and purcheeee than

the freehmen girle.

Freshmen girle preferred to dreee elm»

'ilarly to their cleeemetee end eeniore

dcelred to conform.to the dreee of
their peere but likewiee wanted in-

6.

7.

8.

92

The phyeical and emotional maturity of
the individual girl woe reflected in her
preferencee in the etyling of_the dreeeee
etudied. . I

thie eurvey hae indicated to the inwee-
tigator a needfor curriculun revieien in
the clothing coureee in Servite High
School; namely; greater enphaeie on con-

euner buying of reedybto-oear. more

-emphaeie on principlee of clothing ee-

lection, and alteration of readybtodwear
ae a part of clothing conetruction coureee.
Student reeponeee in thie eurvey'ehow'
eignificant conformity to the findinga

of comparable etadiee in the clothing

practicee of teen-age girle.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

93

9h
BlBLiOBRAPl-i‘!
Booke

Briaco N. A. and Wingate J. W. Retail selling New
'York, Prentice-Hall incu'iGES. .

Dyer Elizabeth Tax 1 hr cs Chicago Houghton Mifflin
t 3 : ”1.7.3.1.: 12.4.4 n

“Ye
Plugel. J. 6.. The W 3; Clothee, London. llogerth
' PTOII, 1m.

 

Hurlock Elizabeth Adoloogent Dcvelo out New York
ficGraw-i-lilffloo ompany, Inc... m5. '

Nyetrom. Paul H” Economlce g; Faehio , New York. Ronald

Prose Company. " .
Nyetron, Paul H. Economic g; Retailing, New York Ronald
Preea Company. “59. '

Journal Articlee

Bayor. Stephanie and mybourn, Marjory. ”Third. Clothing and
Textile Seminar ' Journal 3; Home Ecgnomice. 1.2
(December. 1950 Po 863a

Coleman, Frances, “How High School Glrie Buy Clothin ,'
Journal of Home Economice. 3i (February, l939 .

pp. §¢lfimp

Hartman; GeorgoJW” 'gloth’iing, Poreonnl Prfilfle endtmiel
eeue ourna 9.... o2! Econom ca. une
pp. 255‘2930 ' '

llerteler. Alwnde, ‘Problene of the Normal Adoleecent Girl.“

California ournal g; Secondeu Education, is
0 ruary; . pp. 115:1 e

O'Brien; Ruth 'Buyln for the Family " ourno of home
E¢°fl9mi6‘g 22 mrch' 193°). 9;. We...

Read. Katherine, 'Clothee Help Build Pereonalit ," carnal
2; Home Bconomice. 112 (May, l950), p. I43 .

 

95

' Stone, Gregory P., Form, William H.. and Strahan. liaael 3.,
“The Social Climate of Decieion in Sho

ing for
Clothee.” ournel g Home Economicg. thil'ebruary,
1994-)! lip-£85387 ' ,

Thor, Eathcr and Cowloe. M. 0., i'llow'Women Select Dreaeee.‘

gournalIE§gHomo gcgnomice, 25 (Auguet. l9h3).
pPe "' a: -. ‘ '.

Public Documents

. 1950 Cenaua of Population, volume ll Charac-
teristics of the PoFlation, Part _I 0.1. gamma,
"3.8!;Ingson. g a. n .

“b7'C’ taEee Governmznt r n ng
OfflCO, 19530

 

Unpublished Material

Cobb, Nellie. 'Some Factore influencing Clothing satie-
factione and Dleeatiefactione of High School Girle
in Lee County High School. Auburn, Alabama," Un-

published master'e Theeie..nlabama Polytechnic
lnetltute, Auburn. l9Sl.

Coleman. Mergeret.ndeline. 9An.Anelyele of the Reeponei-
bilitiee of the Firet-Year Homemaking Teacher with
implicatione for Teacher Education." Unpubliahed

Doctor'e Dissertation, Teachere' College, Columbia
Univerelty. New York. 1994.

Cellar, Ruth. RA'Stady'of the Clothing Planning. Selecting
and Buying Practices of Homemaking 1 Girls in Se-
lected urban.Areae of Michigan.“ Unpubliehed Haeter'e
Problem, Michigan State College. Eaet Laneing. l953.

Cooper, Mahal, "The Development and Evaluation of an
interview’Schedule. Materiale and Procedurae for
Preferences and Buying Practicee in Girls' Outer-

wear.“ Uhpubliehed Maeter'e Theeie. Michigan state
College, 1955.

helman, Lola. 'The Raletionehip of Color and Line of Dreee

to the Pereonaiity of High School 0irle."Unpubiiehcd

Maeter'o Thoeie, Drexel institute of Technology)
Philadelphia, l9h6.

96

Holmblade,.A. J.,‘9A.Con arative Study of the Clothing.Area
of the Secondary' omemahing Curriculum in a Selected
Community and Related Beliefs and Practicea of Pumi-
liee in that Community," ‘Unpubliehed Doctoral
Theeie, unchigan State College, l95h.

Hovermele, Ruth, 'Factore.Affacting the Clothing Purchaaee
of High School Home Economice Studente with impli-
catione for Coneumer Buying,‘ unpublished Heater'e
Theeie, Ohio State Uhivereity, l95h.

Hing, Bernice, in Study of the Role of Clothing in Family
Relationehipe in Twent Pive Selected Pamiliee '
Unpublished Meeter'e T eeie, Michigan State College,
Beet Laneing, l9h9.

teaeh, Grace, in Survey of the Clothing Preferencee and
Buying Precticee of too Girle of weet Divieion High
School in Milwaukee, Wiaconoin,' Unpubliehed Maeter'e
Theeie, Michigan State College, 1953.

,Moyer, Louiea, ”The Clothing Practices of a Selected Group
of Kaneae Senior High School Girle,' Unpubliehed
Mheter'e Theeie, Haneae State College, Manhattan, l9hh.

Reed, Kathryn 3., !A Study of Coneumer Purchaeee of a Se-
lected Group of Young Adolescente,’ Uhpuhliahed
Maeter'e Theeia, Florida State Univereity, l9h6.

Reid, Doria Jean, ”A Study of the Clothing Practicee of
Urban High School Girle,‘ Unpubliehed Maeter'e Thalia,
Virginia Polytechnic lnetitute, Blackeburg, l9Sl.

Richardeon, Marigene, WA Study of the Clothing Planning,
Selecting and Buying Practicee of Homemaking l Girle
in.Reimbureed Schoole in Selectod.Areae,' Unpubliehed
Heater'e Problem, Michigan State College, Beet
Laneing, l9S3.

Roener,.Anna T., in Survey of the Clothing Preferencee and
Buying Practices of too Girle of Rooeeveit High
School in Chicago, illinoia,‘ Unpubliehed Heater'a
Theaie, Michigan State College, l95h.

Silverman, Sylvia, “Clothing end.Appeerance, Their Peycho-
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P;£§icatione. Teacher'e College, Columbia Univereity,

. h

97

Smith,.Alme, QApperel Buying Mbtivee and Habite of High
School Girle of Dee Mbinee, lone,“ Unpubliehed
Maeter'e Thceio, Drake Uhivereity; Dee Moinee, 1950.

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an Equipment,” Technical Bulletin No. , Beat
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warning, Margaret, “The implicatione of Social Claea for
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Age in Three Social Ciaeaee in Dee Moinee, lowa,‘l
Unpubliehed Doctoral Theeie, Michigan State
University, l956.

APPENDE X A

99

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

nRSOHAL DATA
Name _# wfi_ ‘w u Aoq_____
1. Father's occupation full time___part time___
2. Mother'e occupation full timeth time+_
3. ‘With when do you live? Parents (___). Mother (____)
Father (____), Step-mother (__), Step-father (___)
Number of eietero older than you
Number of elatere younger than you______
Number of brothers older than you
Number of brothere younger than you_____
Other: (show relationship, if any)
h. How'many'eietere and brothers do you have who are not
living at homcl
Number of cistere older than you‘fi _A
Number of aietere younger than you
Number of brothere older than you
’ Number of brethere younger than you______
5. Birthplace of fatherw ‘WW
Birthplace of mother W
Languages apoken at homew‘ w
6. Have you been employed within the last year? Tha(__),

No (___)

if yes, after echooll (__), Saturdays? L__)
ieet eummer (__) ' ’

7.
8.
9.

10.

ll.

100

Average earninge per hour per week
What kind of work did you dol#_

How did you epend thie money'which you earned?

1. . 2. 3. 3 in

A _A _._._._ A _—
vw— _—

h.__”. ‘5. -
Could you indicate the proportionate amount for each of
the above? ‘

l. 2. 3.

- — w w. W —v—'—v— W _

 

he n_5i

i—w *1 —V...

‘ Below'are acme queetione concerning your interact in
your own appearance and in your clothing.
Generally epeaking, do you approve of your own pereonal
appearance? Yee(___), No (___) ‘
Do you feel that your clothes are comparable to your
friende' and echoolmetee'
in the number that you have? to: (__), No-(__)
in the variety that you have? we. L__), No (__)
Do you have ae many sweaters, bloueee, and ekirte ea

you would like? You ( ), No (__)
Do you have no many play clothee ee you would like?

Yea (___), No (___)

Do you have aa many party dresses as you would likel
Yea L), 'No L) I
For what occaeione are you particularly interested in
being well 'dreeeedlww

#4

12.

13.

1h.

15.1

16.

101

in what group activities in school do you participate?

_A.‘_. _— 4-“

Do you feel you have appropriate clothes for these
occaeions? ‘Yee (__), No (__) '

in what group activities outside of school have you
participated?

.Lk .4— A A

—~——— WW...— , W

Do you feel you have appropriate clothes for these

occasions? ‘Yea (__), No (__)
Do you seek the opinion of othera as to what to wear

on special occasions? Frequently (__), Seldom (__)

102

APPENDIX B

1.

2.

3..

S.

163
CLOTHING PREFERENCES AND BUYING PRACTICES

Would you prefer to wear street clothes rather than the
uniform for school? Yea (___) No (___)
Do you think the uniform.which hae been choeen by the
principal for echool wear in attractive in appearance!
Yea (__) No (‘_)
Do you think that this uniform in a becoming etyie for
the majority of the girls? You (___) No (__)
Do you think that the initial cost of your unifonm and
replacement coote needed during the four yeere of High
School is

more expensive L_)

less expensive Q__)

about the name ea (_1
the coat of echool clothing worn by your friende in
Public School?
Would you like to see the present style of the echool
uniform changed? if so, indicate specific changea you
would like to sea made.
Jacket
Skirtnn
Blouee
Hat , i
Style of shoe

6-

7..

8.

9.

10.

1014,

'Do you like the ehede of nevy blue in your echool Jechet

end ekirtl Yee (__) No (_J
Would you ‘prefer the Jocket end ekirt to be of enother
color then nevy blue? Yee (__) No (__)
if yee, whet color would you prefer
Do you like the I'Ship end Shore' bloueee worn with the
uniform? Yee (_) No (__)
lfxyee. would you prefer (._) piein white

(__) plein colored
if colored. uhet color would you prefer_

Do you like the febrio of which the bloueee ere model
You (__) h’o (_)
lieve you found thet the reyon-decron aeberdine febric
ueed in the ehirt end Jeoket given
Setiefectory eervice Yee (._) No (__)
Why?
is may to core for Yee (__) No (_)
Why! 4“ __ A A
Do you find it neceeeery to preee your ekirt frequently
eo eeto preeent e neet eppeerencel Yee (__) No (__)
Do you feel thet the eeddle oxford ie the moot eetiefeo-
tory type of ehoe to be worn with your echool uniform?
Yee (_J No (___)
le there eny other type of ehoe which you would prefer

to weer with the uniform?

ii.

12.

13.

clh.

105

Do you feel unheppy in weering garmente to echool thet
ere not of your own choice end etylei Yee (__) No (_1
if you were given e choice, would you prefer to continue
to weer the echool uniform? Yee (_) No (__)

Stete reeeone:

_‘___ _“ _.__._

Do you coneult with enyone ehout your clothing neede
or puroheeeel Yee (___)- No (__)

if you. whom do you ooneultl in o

Are you permitted to buy your clothee without coneulting
with your mother. or enother member of the femilyl
(__) frequently (__) seldom (___) Never

When ehopping. if you end your mother dieegree upon
the etyle end colorof e epecific germent, who ueuelly
nekee the that decieion? w
if you end your mother heve had differencee of opinion
no to the eelection of e epeoifie cement. will you

indicete in ehet epecific fectore you dieegree

M

V *—

106

l5. Check the following clothing iteme moot frequently

- 16.

‘ Sweatere'

',Skirte .

purcheeed byi

Youreelf Mother Only

Winter Coot
Suit

' Bloueee '

. 7 Dreeeee

Slips

' Hosiery

Shoee

Coete

Suite ‘

L.)
i...)
L.)

. £'_)
. L.)

L...)

L.)

L.)~

Street Clothes

Perty'Ciothoe
Bloueee

. Skirted

Swoutere

L.)

L.)
L.)
L.)
L)

-L..)

L.)

- L.)
L.)

- L.)

Which of your permeate were purcheeed ready-model ‘

L)
L...)
L.)

.(-¥J
A(__)

(~ )-

*

L.)-

You end You end both
mother perente

L.)
L.)
L.)

L.)

L.)

(__-_)
L.)

CCCCCCCCC

Frequently Usually ‘ Never

.CCCCCCC

L_)
L.)
(._)
L.)
(_)
L.)
L.)
i...)

17.

18.

19.

107
Do you frequently hove to hove elteretiene node on reedy-
thoeer germente which you buy? Yee (_l he (__)
if you. ere elteretlono mede eti etore Yee (__) No(__)
V 1 home , You (_J No(__)
if not eltered et the etore, who ueuelly deee the I

elteretionel Myeelf (-_)

Mother (__)

Other member of the femily (__)

Dreeemeher (___) ,
When you think of your entire werdrobe. et whet type
of etore would you eey moot of the item hove been pur-
cheeedl ’

Ueuelly Seldom Never

mummmnf
Kern'e, Crowley'e L.) (__) (_)

Downtown Specielty
shops ee L‘erner.=

Hemilhoch (_) . (__) L.)

A Neighborhood Deportment

Stores ee Pederel'e.

Montgomery Werd'e. Seere' L_) L.) L.)
Neighborhood Specielty '

shops L...) L.) L)
Order by mail-‘-

Montgomery Word, Seere (_J (__) L)

Do you look in eeverel etoree before mehing e meJor
clothing purcheeel (_) Frequently (___) Seldom
(___) Never

108

20. Check the five influencee lieted below'ehich you con-

eider es heving greeteet importence in your eelection
of clothing.

i_.)
L.)
L.)
L.)
(_J

Neuopepere
Megeeinee_

Store Pattern books
mail Order Ceteiogo

Store Window diepleyo

Perente

Selee Clerk
Style shove

Beet girl friend
Clothing worn by
beet girl friend

2i. {Are meJor items of clothing, ee coat or euit. purcheeed

22.

at special or clearance eeieez
( ) Frequently

L__) seldom

(__) Never

in purchasing e ekirt or blouse which factors most

frequently'influonce your choice?

Brand name

Color

Cost of upkeep-

Eeee of cere )

Fiber content

Price
Style

Workmenehip

Similer to friend's

Skirt

CCCCCCCC

'
w

i..)
L.)
L.)
L.)
L.)
L_.)
L.)
L.)
L.)

Blouee

109

23. What garments do you try on before making e purchase?

Frequently Seldom Never
Coot L.) L.) L.)
Suit L.) L.) L.)
Dreeo, cotton (__) (__) (___) '
Dress, date (__) (__) (__)
Blouoc ,L_) (_J (___)
Sweeter (__) (___) (__)
Wool okirt (___) L.) (___)
21;... Who peyo for your clothee?
All Port None
Peronto (__) (___) (___)
self L.) (__) L...)
Gift (___) (__) (__)

25. How do you pey for your clothing?
e. Minor iteme ouch eo’ lingerie. hooe. blouoeo
(_J Cosh ~
(__) Charge account
(___) Loy-ewey with lnotellment paymento
- b. iieJor itemo ouch ee_coeto, ouito. perty dreeoeo
L) Ceoh
(__) Cherge eccount
(___) Ley-uwoy with inotellment peynento

26.

27.

28.

Would you like to spend considerably more (__)
somewhat more (__)
somewhat loco L)
coneiderebly leoo (__)
than you are now opending on clothool

How do you feel your clothes compare with thoee of

your Very beot girl friend?

Number Coot Style
Very much better (.__) i...) L.)
Somewhat better (__) (__) L_)
Same as (___) (_J L.)
Somewhat icoo then L.) L.) i...)
Not nearly as well as (__) (__) (_)

110

What is the color and the design in the.febrio in your

Plein Plaid fig; ggigt
Winter Coet . L.) L.) L_) L.)
Spring Coat L.) L.) i...) L)
Favorite ouit (,_) (._) L.) L.)
Favorite biouoe L.) L.) L.) (._)
reverite oneter L.) L.) i...) L.)
Favorite skirt L.) (._) L.) L.)
Favorite dreee ‘ (__) (__) L.) L...)

Why io thie okirt your favorite:

1'
1

 

 

_- w—v

ill

Why io thie blouoe your favorite?

,_.

Why lo thio dreoo your favorite?

 

 

29. Do you have any item in your wardrobe which previouoly

belonged to eomeone eloe? Do you like or dislike them?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Garment Like Dielike Reaoon
i...) i...)
L.) L.) W v _F
L.) L.)
30. Do you hovo garmento in your werdrobc that you oeldon
wear?
Garment Reeoon

 

 

 

31'. What type of garmento do you uoually weer:

To Church on For Social
Sunday To Work Activitieo
Blouoeo or
eweetero
with okirto L.) i...) i...)
A Dresses (wool,
our. oynthetio) (___) L.) L.)
‘ .Dreeeee (cotton) L...) L.) _L.)
,suite L.) L.) L.)

Why do you make the. above choice for Church wear in

preference to the othero lloted? _ A

32.

33-

3h.

35.

112

Why do you make the above choice for work in preference
to the othero lioted?

Why do you make the above choice for oocial activitieo

in preference to the othero listed?.

 

Have you ever oeen any type of garment worn at a echool
dance or party'which you conoidered unouiteble for the

occaoion?

V _.

_—

Havo you ever open eny type of garment worn at e beokoto
ball or football game which you considered unoultable

for the occasion?

 

Have you ever ooen any type of garment worn while ehop-

ping in downtown Detroit which you conoidered unouiteble
for the occaoion?_WV __ _
For what occasiono do you regard the following garmento
eo unouiteble and improper?
Bermuda ohorta__ ‘

Slacko

Sun dreooeo A._
‘What to the price range of the cotton dreooeo that you
purcheoe?

$2 to $5___ $6 to $7.... $8 to 39“ Over 39

What lo the price range of the party dreooeo that you
purchaoe?

$7 to tic“ ill to llh____ $15 i°-$ZO____ Over $20___

113

[zefgrggceg LE Ready-town"

36-

37.

38.

39-

110a

In.

For atyle or deaign which of the'olx dresses would you
choose for chOpping downtown?

D x;__ D u____ Dlll___ 1) iv___ DV_ 1) v1___
‘Which of these six dresses do you like the least?

9 x___ n 11___ D m” 0 iv___ o v____ 0 vi_____

in aelecting a dresa for a more formal aocial occaaion
which do you like the beat? D Vll__ D Vlli___ D 1X___
D x__ I

Which of theae dreeaea do you think would be auitable
to wear to a aociai echool affair?

D Vll___ D Vlll__ D ix__ D X___

Do you think any of the other dreaaea you have aeen
would be auitable for thia type of wear!

Social echool affairs D l__ D ll__ D lll__.D N-

D V___ D Vl___
Evening date: D l__ D ll___ D lll___ D lV___ D V___
D Vl___

Do you object to the decoration or trim on any of
then aix dreaaea? Yea (___) No (_1. if yea, which

one or once do you object to and why

v

Do you like the color of any one of theae dreaaea

better than the othera'i Yea (__) No (__)
if yes, which I

Do you dislike the color of any one of theae dreaaeal
Yes (__) No (__) If yes. which one

h3o

hS.

1L6.

.117.

11.8.

11h.

Do you think the workmanship on any one of theae dreaaea
ie auperior to the others? Yes ( 1 No ( )

 

 

if yea, why W W# W fl .

Which of the air: dreeaea do you feel haa the pooreat
workmanahipl * _Jihy do you feel thie haa poor
worlunanahip‘i M

 

M M

Do you think that the workmanahip on any one of these
dreaaea la better than that of the others? You (__)
No (__) if yea, which do you conaider haa the beat
workmnnahip and whyw w , l

Do you think the fabric in any one of theee dreaaea
ia superior to the othera‘i Yea (_J No (__) if yea.
which“ you think haa auperior quality n
Do you think that D l. D ll, and D 111 will launder
equally well and keep their original appearance?

Yea (__) No (l ) if no, atate reaaon

W

A ; L ‘ _ ____

W V ___r fw M

Do you think that D W, D V, D V1 will launder equally

well and keep their original appearance? Yes (__)
No (__) if no, atate reaaon

_m M ___‘ . ‘_—_k ____‘

Which of theae dreaaea do you feel could not be laun-
dered and would need dry cleaning“! D Vll__ D Vlll___
1) ix :3 x___

What doea the label on dreaa D Vii mean to you?

w ——v

What does the label on dross D x mean to you?

 

 

w vvw “1 WW

h9. in terms of price of these dressca, which do you think
is the best value for the money?
23 x___ n n__ mu_ 0 IV__ n v__ nv1__

50. Which of the four dresses do you think is the best
value for its price? D Vll__ D Vlll___ D IX_'__ D X__

116

APPENDIX C

117

lNVENTORY'

H

c o
tective Date of '3 '3' 5 Deecription
armed; Purchaae Coat Color Fabric 3 s: 8: of atyle

Winter Coat

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Midaeaaon

Sport .

Cardigan

Raincoat ' __ __
Outer ‘

mitts

Dreaaee

 

 

118

,.Deacri tion
a of aty a

Date of
Purchaae

O
O
U
ge-

Dreaaee.of
cotton

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IIIIIII

 

 

Dreaees of
synthetic ,v

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blouaca of
cotton

 

 

 

 

a”
fl
e-
‘ 0

I

I

I

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

HHIIH Illll'll‘l'lH-l?

I
I‘IIIIHI

 

Date of
Purchase

Skirta
cotton

 

Skirta
wool and
othera

 

Sweaters

Shoes
Dreae

 

 

ll HHH

Coat

II!!!

III!!!
III! Hill! Hill
I!!! HIHHIH

O
. O
on
0
’I

Fabric

‘5
~00
31o

Plain
Plaid

119

eacri tion
f aty e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

‘ . afATE UNI‘V'ETPS'rv

)

        

 

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