Design and Product Development

An FEA Needs Model Evaluation of the Marching Band Uniform

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the functional, expressive, and aesthetic needs of marching band uniform wearers using Lamb and Kallal's (1992) FEA Consumer Needs Model, and to recommend design improvements based on these needs. A quota sample of marching band members at the University of Delaware participated in a focus group which yielded qualitative results. Participants were asked to perform specific actions while wearing the University of Delaware marching band uniform and answer semi-structured, open-ended questions regarding the FEA criteria. The functional needs identified include donning/doffing, comfort, fit and range of motion, and temperateness and breathability. The expressive needs identified include identity and pride, and performance and self-esteem. The aesthetic needs identified include story-telling and use of design elements. Based on the wearer needs assessment, the researcher recommends athletic fabrics, streamlined silhouettes, school colors/logos, streamlined fit, transitional pieces, and metallic/light effects to improve the marching band uniform.

Keywords: marching band, uniforms, functional needs, expressive needs, aesthetic needs, FEA Consumer Needs Model

How to Cite:

Smith, C., (2019) “An FEA Needs Model Evaluation of the Marching Band Uniform”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 76(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.8836