Comparison of Actual and Subjective Age Index-Based Body Shapes in Young-Old Women

Abstract

This study examined differences in torso body shape between elderly women’s chronological age (60s) and perceived age (40s), and classified torso types to propose guidelines for apparel fit and pattern design. Data were obtained from the 8th Size Korea survey using 3D anthropometric measurements of 515 women (283 in their 40s and 232 in their 60s). Fifty-six measurements related to height, length, girth, depth, breadth, and shoulder slope, along with 15 indices, were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, principal component analysis (PCA), cluster analysis, ANOVA, and chi-square tests. Significant age-related differences were found. Women in their 60s showed rounder torsos with greater waist, bust, and abdominal depth, whereas women in their 40s exhibited curvier silhouettes, larger bust and hip girths relative to the waist, and higher bust positions with less sagging. PCA extracted five components—torso horizontal, torso vertical, hip and crotch length, torso length, and shoulder slope—explaining 79.99% of variance. Cluster analysis identified four torso types: (1) sloped shoulders with a small torso and apple-shaped hips, (2) a large and long torso with apple-shaped hips, (3) sloped shoulders with drooping hips and an average torso, and (4) elevated shoulders with a high torso. Type 1 was most common in the 60s group, while Type 4 predominated among those with a perceived age in their 40s, highlighting the importance of integrating perceived age into apparel fit, pattern design, and sizing. The proposed guidelines improve fit, ease allowance, and design to enhance satisfaction and self-image among elderly consumers.