INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES IN PATTERN CONSTRUCTION OF APPAREL DESIGN AMONG FASHION DESIGNERS IN RIVERS STATE.

Abstract

The study examines innovative strategies in pattern construction of apparel designs among fashion designers Rivers State. “Three Research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. The study used a descriptive research design. The population comprised of 102 registered male and female fashion designers. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 14 male and 14 female fashion designers from five communities in Omoku. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire item developed by the researcher based on the research questions. The instrument was validated by three experts, Cronbach  Alpha reliability technique was used to determine the reliability index. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation and t-test to test the null hypothesis at 0.05 level of significant. There is no significant difference in the mean responses of male and female fashion designers on innovative strategies in pattern construction of apparels ideas among fashion designers.” Findings reveals uses of CAD as enhances efficiency, Pattern creation, pattern grading, it improves virtual prototyping, automation and integration, digitizing existing pattern, automation and integration, and digitizing existing pattern. types of AI are  CLO 3D, Tukacad. Adaobe illustrator, patternmaker, pad system, optiTex Ltd, inkscape, gerber Acc mark, and Bro-wear, lectra, seamly2D, the importance of using digital pattern simulation are: It saves both time and resources, promote Impact Garment Fit and Grading, Maintain Creative Control, and Reduce Waste,  improve Workflow Efficiency, and as well ensures consistency in design across all sizes. The study concludes thatComputer Aided Design, Artificial Intelligence and digital pattern simulation are the innovative strategies in pattern construction. The study recommends Fashion designers should avail themselves to acquire skills in using computer aided design to construct patterns used for apparel design, in other to increase their efficiency in garment making processes.