Points of Measure (POM): The DNA of Garment Fit
Did you know that improper garment fit can lead to significant returns and dissatisfaction among customers? Understanding Points of Measure (POM) is crucial for any womenswear brand looking to create consistently fitting garments that cater to their audience. In this blog post, we will delve deep into POMs, discussing how they ensure garment consistency and how you can effectively identify and utilize these critical points in the design process.
Understanding Points of Measure (POM)
Points of Measure, or POM, refers to specific landmarks on a garment where measurements are taken. Each garment type has its own set of POM to give direction to the patternmaker, ensuring all measurements are accurate for drafting a pattern. This understanding not only helps in maintaining consistency across different designs but also enhances the overall fit of the garment.
The Importance of Points of Measure
When designing womenswear, fit is paramount. Ill-fitting garments can lead to disappointed customers and damage a brand’s reputation. POM serves as the foundation for achieving the desired fit, allowing designers to communicate specific measurement guidelines clearly. By standardizing measurements across styles and collections, designers can maintain consistency and create garments that meet customer expectations.
Key benefits of utilizing POM include:
Consistency Across Collections: Adhering to standardized measurements leads to a uniform fit across different products and styles.
Clear Communication: Having defined POM makes it easier to communicate fit criteria among design and production teams.
Fewer Manufacturing Errors: Standardized measurement protocols can significantly reduce mistakes during production, ultimately saving time and costs.
Identifying Key Points of Measure
Understanding which specific points to measure is vital for garment fit. Here’s a breakdown of some crucial POM:
Bust: Measure across the fullest part of the bust with the tape parallel to the floor.
Waist: Identify the narrowest part of the torso above the belly button.
Hip: Measure at the fullest part of the hip area, keeping the tape level.
Inseam: Measure from the crotch seam to the hem of the leg for pants.
Sleeve Length: Measure from the shoulder seam to the wrist.
These points act as vital reference marks for patternmakers and designers, ensuring the final product aligns with ideal sizing standards.
Effective Measurement Practices
To obtain accurate POM, adhere to these best practices:
Invest in Quality Tools: Use high-quality tape measures as inaccurate tools can lead to significant errors.
Consistency in Techniques: Always measure fabrics laid flat or maintain the same posture if measuring a body.
Accurate Recording: Document measurements meticulously; minor errors can result in larger fit issues.
Consider Fabric Behavior: For stretchy fabrics, factor in how they behave when measuring to ensure a snug fit.
Ensuring Consistency with POM
For POM to be effective, establishing a thorough measurement guide is essential. Key practices include:
Develop a POM Guide: Create a guide that includes specific instructions for measuring each POM along with visuals for enhanced understanding.
Team Education: Ensure all involved in design and production understand the significance of POM through regular training sessions.
Integrate into Tech Packs: Including detailed POM in tech packs enhances communication with manufacturers, clarifying fit expectations.
Review and Adapt: After producing garments, assess fit and gather feedback to fine-tune POM for future production batches.
Technology in Measurement Accuracy
As technology progresses, garment fitting can also enhance through various digital tools. Here’s how:
3D Body Scanning: This technology captures accurate body shapes, providing precise measurements that inform fit decisions.
Fit Software: Software applications can analyze garment fit during design, allowing early identification of potential fitting issues.
Virtual Prototyping: Use virtual tools to visualize fit before producing physical samples, saving time and resources.
Analyzing Fit Feedback for Improvements
Customer feedback is invaluable for refining POM and improving fit accuracy. Here are ways to gather useful insights:
Post-Purchase Surveys: Use surveys to obtain direct fit feedback from customers about their recent purchases.
Analyze Returns: Monitor return reasons closely, particularly for fit-related issues, to inform future design decisions.
Reflecting on POM for Brand Success
With a solid understanding of POM, womenswear brands can significantly enhance garment fit and customer satisfaction. By diligently applying accurate measurement practices, leveraging technology, and analyzing customer feedback, your garments can fit as intended, fostering customer loyalty.
If you’re experiencing challenges with inconsistent fit in your women’s apparel, focusing on Points of Measure could be your solution.
For a more personalized assessment of your fitting process, Book a Call today! Remember, success in fashion lies in understanding your customers and meeting their expectations through well-fitted garments.