[underwear]
ONLY WOMEN CAN tell how important it is for a bra to fit comfortably and match one's style requirements, and only garment manufacturers understand how complicated it is to make these items.
A bra comprises many components, including adjustable straps, tags, hooks, rings, pads, wires and fabrics, and requires 25 to 40 procedures and about six months to complete, with most parts going through laboratory tests, colouring and assembling before they are sewn together. The making of lingerie calls for highly skilled craftsmanship and considerable patience.
'Despite using advanced technology to refine and shorten the procedures, some areas still have to be hand made,' said Angie Lau, chief executive for Clover Group International.
Based in Hong Kong, the company manufactures products for some of the most prestigious lingerie brands, including Felina, Marks & Spencer, Victoria's Secret, Lane Bryant and GAP. All of its products are made for overseas markets such as the United States, Britain, Canada and Sweden.
Because bra sizing systems differ widely between countries (and also among manufacturers), any system for determining bra size is a problem. This is in addition to the clients' demands for high quality, as each brand has its own set of production requirements.
'To meet these complicated standards, it is important for us to be at the forefront to stay competitive,' Ms Lau said. 'We must keep up with the latest technology, come up with innovative designs and use new machines for mass production.'