Development of a reference database on historical body sizing and digital twins

Purpose Historical body sizing systems are widely used in reconstructions to reproduce the shape of the human body. However, the systems are less informative than modern standards. The article aims to present a framework for processing historical sizing systems and to generalize 19th century adult female body sizes within one reference anthropometric database. Design/methodology/approach The study adapted historical data on body sizing to the modern methodology of creating sizing systems. It systematized 248 typical sizes from 33 sources published in North America between 1875 and 1918. The common body measurements were examined by means of correlation analysis. The data was used to introduce new key dimensions and body sizes. Regression models for calculating secondary dimensions were established. A parametric modelling software program was used to generate avatars in accordance with the developed database. Findings The developed database presents 111 typical body sizes divided into five constitution and three height groups. The new database agrees with historical body sizes published in Europe. The differences between the developed database and modern standards were confirmed to be in line with changes in the shape of the body during the 19th and the 20th century. Originality/value The study provides historical reconstructions and exhibitions with a reliable and comprehensive source of anthropometric data, as well as a diverse range of virtual mannequins.