Authors

• University of Turku. INVEST Research Flagship Centre
• Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare. INVEST Research Flagship Centre
• University of Turku. Department of Social Research

Keywords

attitudes, basic needs, consumer behaviour, consumer goods, fashion, norms

Abstract

The survey studied Finnish people's views on the contents of a clothing basket that enables a decent standard of living, meaning what types of clothing individuals of different ages and genders are considered to need. In addition, it explored practices related to acquiring clothing as well as needs concerning clothing care.

First, respondents were asked to assess the extent to which various clothing‑related matters are necessary in Finland in the 2020s. After this, they evaluated in more detail the clothing needs of an example person of their choosing. For this purpose, visualised example clothing lists were presented. Respondents were asked whether the presented clothing set meets the requirements of a decent standard of living for the given group. They were also asked to comment on any potential shortcomings or unnecessary items, and to assess whether any clothing items were present in excess or in insufficient quantities.

Finally, respondents were asked to evaluate the necessity of various items related to clothing care. In addition, they were asked to estimate the lifespans of different clothing items as well as the typical places of purchase for clothes, footwear, and accessories, and their attitudes toward these purchasing locations.

Background variables included the respondent's age, gender, NUTS3 region of residence, household type and composition, education, main activity, type of employment, occupation (ISCO-08), type of housing, personal and household monthly net income, and subjective financial well-being.