• The Research Journal of the Costume Culture
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• v.20 no.3
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• pp.309-318
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• 2012

This study aimed to find the components of visual image by researching main image-related adjectives applied to high-waist skirts. In addition, it compared and analyzed the differences and mutual influences of visual images according to variations in the waistline and skirt length of high-waist skirts. The researchers made nine high-waist skirts-combinations of three different levels of waistlines and skirt lengths. The test involved 121 people who hold degrees in the field of Clothing and Textiles. The panels tested actual images of all models wearing the high-waist skirts shown on a computer screen. The results of the study are as follows.: Four factors affected the visual image as waist-height and skirt-length changed: attractiveness, upper-body compensation, length compensation, and hips compensation. Among these factors, attractiveness was estimated as the most important factor. The torso and the hip were highlighted as the waistline increased from 3cm to 11cm, due to the optical illusion of a tighter skirt wrapping the bust, waist, and hips. As the waistline increased, the stature and leg length increased, possibly revising the overall appearance. For the skirt length, a length measuring 20cm above the knees, proved to be most attractive. This resulted in elongated height and leg length, and a slimmer overall look.