Factor Analysis of Choice of Dress Code at Ho Polytechnic

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate whether society still holds the original essence of clothing in high esteem, what factors do people consider when choosing what to wear, and also, to compare today’s factors with those of earlier centuries. This research was carried out in Ho Polytechnic community where 350 respondents made up of academics and non academics were selected to complete a questionnaire asking them to indicate the level of importance attached to listed original factors. The raw data consists of 23 original factors subjected to factor analysis to identify new composite factors that can explain the clothing behavior of the populace. At the end, six factors were identified. These are; in order of importance, general undecided attitude of the people as to what actually controls their dressing, and the information base of the people.  The rest are; the resolution of some people not to dress to offend anyone, fabric influence, the specific social believes of the people and the blending factor. It is hoped that the findings of the research would prompt society to be mindful of what clothing communicates about the wearer.

Keywords: Communication; Clothing; Character; Virtues; Honor