Ergonomics and Fashion: the OIKOS methodology for usability and comfort evaluation in clothing and fashion

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to present a methodological proposition, named OIKOS, to evaluate comfort and usability in clothing and fashion products. The development of the methodology was based on the need to underlay the project of clothing and fashion products with ergonomic and usability principles in all the stages of the product development, since its conception. The theoretical foundation lays on the introduction of ergonomics and usability as fundamental variables while developing clothing and fashion product projects, to obtain comfort. The OIKOS Methodology proposition incorporates ergonomic features, usability principles and comfort criteria for clothing and fashion products. These will be guidelines to fulfill the user different requirements relating to the clothing and fashion products adjustment and quality. Besides reaching the intended comfort, this methodological proposition contributes to extend the product's life cycle, reducing the environment impact caused by its early disposal, and at the same time establishes an emotional connection between the user and the product.