Recent technical advances in fibers, dyeing, minimizing defects, and finishing methods for apparel fabrics are reviewed. The development of silk-like polyester fibers has vastly improved the aesthetics and comfort of polyester fabric. Computerized control and monitoring systems for dyeing have improved the quality and reproducibility of new fashion colors. Machines for correcting weft distortions are notable for eliminating this common fabric defect. Scientific instruments to determine the physical and mechanical characteristics of finished fabrics, such as the Kawabata Evaluation System and the FAST system, are now available for evaluating fabric during automated production processing.