Synthetic Textiles Usage among Fashion Designers in Nigeria: Evaluation of Aesthetic and Expressive Qualities of Apparels for Sustainable Fashion

Abstract

Aim of the Study: The study investigated the aesthetic and expressive qualities of apparels made from synthetic textiles as well as sewing techniques utilized among fashion designers for sustainable fashion in Nigeria. Four research questions and one hypothesis guided the study.

Methodology: Expo-facto research design was adopted for the study. The population was 8,039 subjects and a multi-stage sampling technique was used where three states were randomly selected. Then purposive sample was used to select a sample size of 45 respondents comprising nine fashion designers, 18 user models and 18 judges gave their consent to participate in the study. Data was collected with questionnaire and analyzed using percentages, mean, standard deviation and t-test at 0.05 level of significance.

Findings: Findings showed that correct sewing techniques are utilized in apparel production which include; new needles, synthetic threads, right stitches, seams and sewing machine among others. Also the aesthetic and expressive qualities of apparels were excellent and good being fashionable, beautiful, attractive with appealing style/design, fabric design construction details and colour combination as well as promote professional values, project self-image, wearer’s self-confidence, self-esteem and sense of belonging respectively.

Conclusion: In conclusion for professional look, comfort and acceptable appearance right sewing techniques are employed in apparel making. Therefore, it was recommended that fashion designers should go into large scale production of beautiful synthetic apparels to meet customers’ demand of fashionable wears.