Sailing Apparel for Women: A Design Development Case Study

A seven-step design process proposed by Watkins (1995) was used as a framework to guide the development of a one-piece female-specific sailing garment. An objective analysis of user needs uncovered through personal interviews and participant observation led to the development of design criteria based on the user need categories of functional, expressive, and aesthetic needs (Lamb & Kallal, 1992). The criteria were then translated into garment attributes and used in the development of a prototype garment. The prototype was wear-tested and revised. The final design combines functional, expressive, and aesthetic attributes to protect the body, maintain health and safety, and improve the wearer's sailing efficiency as outlined by the design criteria.