3D briefs made from DJ 6/2 EL combine style with function

19 Dec '11

3 min read

By developing its functional 3D briefs, KARL MAYER is getting the bodies of fashion- conscious women into shape, as well as modernising the production of stylish shapewear. These discreetly patterned briefs are produced so that they are almost ready-to-wear on a DJ machine, type DJ 6/2 EL.

The only thing that remains to be done is to cut out the semi-finished article, fold it vertically, close the inner leg seam and finally turn the briefs to the right side – and this comfortable shapewear, which can be produced very efficiently, is ready to wear.

Additional elastane is incorporated to give the textile the required compression and this is introduced by the Positive Pattern Beam Drive (PPD). This is done mainly at specific locations, i.e. at the waistband to create a flat border and at the hips to produce a smooth outline. Compression is also applied to flatten the stomach.

Tests have recently been carried out at an independent test laboratory to assess whether KARL MAYER's 3D briefs can meet the multiple requirements of shapewear.

The Hohenstein Laboratories studied the compression behaviour of shapewear briefs in accordance with the RAL-GZ 387/1 (1/2008) specification. RAL-GZ 387/1 covers the specifications relating to the quality assurance of medical compression hosiery. The tests concentrated on the waistband, the stomach and the hips.

The samples were first of all washed and dried in accordance with the specification. Compression tests were then carried out using the System Hohenstein Compression Measurement system.

The results of the tests, which were carried out under specific climatic conditions, related to the following parameters: practical elongation (%), force (N/cm), compression (kPa) and residual pressure (%). The resulting pressure profile confirmed the compression values for the functional briefs in all three test zones. These achieved the desired body-shaping effect but are below the threshold that is specified for medical compression textiles. Loss of comfort is therefore precluded.

A continuous increase in compression occurs from the lower edge of the briefs to the top edge – reflecting the efforts of KARL MAYER's product developers in developing shapewear that matches the body's anatomy.

The 3D briefs with “extra power” were sent to INVISTA's laboratory for further tests to study their shaping effects. This company is one of the world's largest integrated manufacturers of fibres and polymers. In its “LYCRA fiber Moves” legwear event after the ITMA, one of the exhibits it was showcasing was the extension of its LYCRA beauty fabric platform to the fine pantyhose and seamless clothing sector.

This concept has already become well established on the lingerie and swimwear market, and involves testing the compression force in conjunction with the comfort. By carrying out extensive tests using the company's own standards, a classification system was developed which was designed to give consumers more information and the confidence to make the right purchasing decision, and also to support manufacturers in their marketing operations.

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