Consumers' preference on the hand-feel of tie fabrics in Hong Kong

In this study, the customers’ need and their preferences on tie’s fabrics have been investigated using a questionnaire survey in which 245 respondents were analysed. Important elements that affect their selection of necktie were briefly identified using the statistical method. Fabric materials used for making tie was found to be one of the very important elements that the consumer will consider on making purchase. Fibre content and fabric handle were also found as one of the major selection criteria for fabric materials. The study was further extended to evaluate the hand-feel of a wide range of new tie fabrics being developed and introduced in the market, by both subjective and objective assessment using the Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabrics (KES-F system). Important fabric handle attributes that influence the consumers' preference on tie fabrics were identified. Their relationships with fabric physical and mechanical properties were studied. The investigation provides decision support to necktie manufacturers and retailers through scientific and quantitative recommendations for material selection.