Question

What are the factors affecting the selection of readymade garments?

Answer 1

1. Fit: Ready-made garments are available in many sizes, but they are manufactured with the average body build of a particular category of people in mind. For many people, alterations may be required. While many people like the fitting of ready-made garments, some may be willing to alter them, and others may prefer customised tailor-made garments and not want to buy ready-made ones at all.
2. Colour: Bright colours are usually very attractive for functions and weddings, and the simple pastel colours are generally liked by all age groups. The colour, in turn, depends on the occasion, age group and personal preference for a specific colour.
3. Workmanship: Ready-made garments are manufactured by following a set of standards. However, products of varying qualities are available in the market. Hence, the buyers should check that the workmanship is done according to the basic parameters. The better the workmanship, the higher the price of the cloth.
4. Price or cost: This factor is of great significance. The price of the garments depends on the raw material used, workmanship, transportation costs, water, electricity, labour charges, climate, etc. The price controls not only the production but also the number of purchases. When prices are lowered, people tend to buy more clothes. This turns luxury items into necessities for them. When a choice has to be made between two garments, price acts as a big deciding factor.
5. Maintenance required: Some garments are easy to maintain and take care of, while others need extra care and finishing. Since garments with easy maintenance require less management, people prefer to buy them. Colourfast garments are also a fast-selling item. Garments like ethnic wear should have proper maintenance instruction labels.
6. Fashion: The fashion trends currently dominating the markets play an important role in the demand for clothes. For example, there have been trends in buying Anarkali dresses, Patiala dresses, kaftans, etc. Also, the variety available in terms of pattern and colours in each genre has an impact on the appeal and demand of a garment. People’s liking for garments keeps changing according to trends. As a result of this, sometimes, if a customer wants a particular style or fabric, it may be difficult to find in regular marketplaces.
7. Mode of living: The consumption of ready-made garments largely depends on the culture and mode of living of the people. In cold countries, people buy more synthetic and woollen garments. In villages, people prefer wearing dhotis, pyjamas, and saris. In cities, people wear pants, shirts, Indo-western wear, etc.
8. Social status: A lot of social distinction is evident based on an individual’s purchasing power. In earlier times, labourers and workers wore inexpensive, rough-quality fabric, whereas kings and ministers wore fine-quality, costly clothes. Today, according to how much a person can spend, they buy the best fabric they can, based on brand, quality, style, design, workmanship, etc.
9. Purchasing power: Every person divides their income for their necessities, i.e., food, clothing, and shelter. As the income of individuals increases, they can spend more money on buying better quality garments and clothes.
10. Availability: The production of readymade garments depends on the availability of labour and raw materials. The availability of quality products that can provide consumer satisfaction is very important.