The Indian apparel industry is one of the largest contributors to the country’s economy, with a rapidly growing population and a fashion-conscious youth driving demand for fashionable and comfortable clothing. However, despite the large customer base, the industry faces a significant challenge when it comes to standardisation of body sizes.
Most of the Indian population has diverse body sizes and shapes, making it difficult for manufacturers to cater to the needs of all customers effectively. The adoption of Western size patterns in the Indian market is an uneasy affair.
According to a report by Technopak Advisors, the Indian apparel market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.5per cent and reach a value of US $102 billion in 2023. With a population of over 1.3 billion people, the apparel industry caters a vast customer base. However, the lack of standardisation in body sizes has been a major challenge for the industry.
As per a study by the Indian Journal of Science and Technology, the average body measurements of Indian men and women are significantly different from those of their Western counterparts. The study highlights the need for a size chart that caters to the specific needs of the Indian population.
The recent introduction of the IndiaSize project for a standardised size chart for the apparel Industry by the Government of India aims to provide a solution to this challenge. The standardised size chart considers the diverse body types and sizes of our population. The initiative is expected to increase customer satisfaction and to reduce cloths returns due to ill-fitting.
Textiles ministry has invested over INR 30 crores ($4 million) in the development of IndiaSize. The project initiatives are expected to benefit over 15 lakh (1.5 million) retailers and manufacturers in India. The standardised size chart will also make it easier for Indian manufacturers to cater to the specific needs of the Indian market, distinguishing them from international competition.
The adoption of IndiaSize is expected to result in cost savings for both manufacturers and customers. According to a report by FICCI, the apparel industry incurs losses of over INR 11,000 crores ($1.5 billion) due to the high rate of returns caused by ill-fitting clothes. With the adoption of IndiaSize, the number of returns is expected to reduce significantly, resulting in cost savings for manufacturers and greater customer satisfaction.
IndiaSize is expected to have a significant impact on the apparel industry, with the potential to drive growth and increase customer satisfaction. With investments by the Government and its potential to benefit millions of retailers and manufacturers, IndiaSize is poised to revolutionise the apparel industry in India. It can differentiate from international standards by considering the diverse body shapes and sizes of our population. Indian customised size chart will provide customers with accurate measurements, making it easier for them to find clothing that fits their body type. This will increase comfortability, enhance fitness, and improve standardisation in the apparel industry. IndiaSize is poised to make a significant impact on our fashion industry, positioning it as a leader in the global fashion market.
