Fabric requirements can be classified into four categories: aesthetic (handle, drape, lustre, etc.); performance in use (easy-care, stretch, comfort, pilling tendency, abrasion resistance, etc.); image and cost, which can be subdivided into the fiber or yarn cost and the finished fabric processing cost. All of these factors have an influence based on the type of garment and its market position or price point. For example, a fabric to be used in a formal ladies’ suit for a highly regarded brand house will have a high value placed on aesthetics and image, be less sensitive to performance in use, and will be largely insensitive to cost. On the other hand, a department store’s own-brand jeans will be worth highly with respect to its durability and a low cost more than its aesthetics value and brand image.
