Paula Wren

Dr. Paula Wren is a Senior Lecturer in Fashion Technology at the Manchester Fashion Institute, Manchester Metropolitan University. With 35 years of industry experience in garment design, pattern development, and fit analysis, she transitioned to academia to focus on research and education. Her expertise spans anthropometric measurement techniques, gerontology-focused garment development, and 3D body scanning applications. She teaches on the BA (Hons) Fashion Design & Technology Programme and supervises postgraduate research, including PhD candidates nationally and internationally.

Dr. Wren holds a PhD and MSc with distinction in Clothing Product Development, alongside SFHEA recognition. Her research explores the impact of aging demographics on body measurement practices and garment fit, collaborating with institutions like the University of Manchester and Keele University. She has also partnered with industry leaders including Charnos, ASOS, and SpineCor on 3D scanning projects. A published author in journals like Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, her work critiques consumer interactions with online sizing tools and advocates for improved industry measurement guidance.

• Education: PhD, MSc (Distinction) in Advanced Clothing Product Development
• Awards: SFHEA, Textile Institute Membership
• Collaborations: University of Manchester Psychology/School of Materials, Keele University
• Industry Projects: 3D bodyscanning for retailers, Adobe Illustrator training

Her advocacy for accessible anthropometric practices extends to exhibitions like the Museum of Science and Industry event on online measurement guidance. As a PhD supervisor and external examiner, she emphasizes rigorous thesis development and candidate support.