Apparel Design, Textiles & Construction 3 Introduction With a new look and a new title, this edition of Apparel: Design, Textiles & Construction is designed with you in mind. Chapter topics will lead you through many concepts and issues related to the role of apparel in your life and the lives of others. You will learn about the textile and apparel industry from the U.S. and global viewpoint, the latest trends in fashion and apparel, the impact of fashion design on the industry, and a focus on career opportunities in textiles and apparel. In addition, you will also learn how to make the best decisions regarding the selection and care of apparel and the basic techniques of apparel construction. Throughout this text, you will learn how to identify and evaluate a wide array of design, textile, and apparel options to fi ll human needs. Hundreds of beautiful photos effectively illustrate design concepts, textile information, and clothing construction. The charts and illustrations help demonstrate and clarify important text information. An introduction to apparel construction includes the selection and use of equipment, fabric, and patterns. Apparel: Design, Textiles & Construction refl ects contemporary life. Topics include current trends and the latest information. Special features focus on interesting historical facts, cutting-edge trends, and the latest technology. At the end of each chapter, you will fi nd a wealth of practical questions and activities to help you evaluate and apply what you have learned. Workplace Links activities help you apply chapter content to workplace situations. Because involvement with student and professional organizations is key to career success, the FCCLA activities at the end of each chapter reinforce teamwork, workplace skills, and community involvement. About the Authors Louise Liddell’s career in family and consumer sciences includes 15 years of teaching high school in Tennessee. As Assistant Superintendent for a youth development center, she continued her work with teens. Louise’s leadership roles in professional organizations include service at local, regional, state, and national levels. As president of the Tennessee Vocational Association, she received a Life Membership award in AVA for outstanding leadership. Louise is also the coauthor of the text Building Life Skills, as well as many magazine and newsletter articles. Louise has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree from Memphis State University. Carolee Stucker Samuels served as Editorial Director for Family and Consumer Sciences and Career Education at Goodheart-Willcox Publisher, where she began as an Assistant Editor. Prior to her work as an editor, Carolee was a family and consumer sciences teacher in Illinois and Indiana for 14 years, teaching textiles and apparel to high school students as well as adults. She is active in numerous professional organizations and has held many offi ces. Carolee has a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and a master’s degree from the University of Illinois.