Growth Trends for Related Jobs

How Does Math Work in Fashion Everyday?

careertrend article image
Hero Images/Hero Images/GettyImages

Some may doubt that they will ever use math after high school or college, but some industries require having a head for numbers. The fashion industry is not just about clothing, shopping and models; it has a lot of math incorporated into the day-to-day operations.

Measurements

Measurements are necessary in order to create the clothing. They are vital to making sure the clothes will fit models showing the clothing. Also, it is important that the measurements are tailored correctly for the customers.

Proportions

Some outfits are cut in a specific way and designed for a particular type of body. Certain models are chosen to wear particular items based upon their proportions compared to the cut of the clothing. The measurements of the model and the clothing need to coincide, which is where using math comes in.

Return on Investment

When designers buy the materials to create the clothes, they need to make sure that their return is substantial enough to cover all the costs of the initial investment. Math plays an important role in calculating the profit.

Inventory

Stores that sell the clothing use math to decide how many of each piece of clothing they want to sell in each store. So as to not have a backlog of inventory, they compare the quantity of pieces sold and the amount that is in stock to what was initially ordered.

Cost of Item

Designers need to decide the price of their clothing. In addition, the stores use math to decide how much to charge for the clothing and how and when to discount it.

Expenses

Math is used to calculate the amount needed to spend for fabric, hangers, thread and various other items needed in the fashion industry. In addition, calculations also are made to determine production costs to make the clothing.

References
Writer

Lauren Romano became a freelance writer in 2007. Her work appears on various websites and in print. Romano specializes in a variety of topics including dating, travel, New York City, decorating and budget living.

Photo Credits

Hero Images/Hero Images/GettyImages