US Women’s Clothing Market Report 2023

This report offers a comprehensive analysis of the US women’s clothing industry in over 70 pages of content. The latest market and consumer developments are discussed in detail, with research-backed strategies recommended for women’s clothing brands and stakeholders going forward.

Below, we’ve summarised the key topics covered, and offer handpicked insights from the report.

Key Topics Covered

US Women’s Clothing Market Outlook 2023-2028

2023: Women’s clothing sales are estimated to rise 4.9% in 2023, and make up the majority of total US clothing sales. This doesn’t mean that the industry is free from inflationary pressures; a majority of women are shopping less frequently for clothing, and reducing their impulse buys as they save money or prioritise essentials.

2024-2025: Looking ahead to 2024 and 2025, eCommerce will likely command a higher share of total sales, as retailers improve sizing tools and customer service offerings in the online channel.

2026-2028: From 2026-2028, the industry will continue posting steady gains, as retailers increase efforts to connect with customers by highlighting DEI and sustainability initiatives. Retailers will also increase participation in the circular economy, and continue to invest in tech and the digital shopping experience.

Women’s Clothing Consumer Trends

Women tend to purchase clothing on a regular basis rather than waiting for the change of seasons. This trend is likely to remain, as nearly half of women have said that seasonal clothing is no longer important to them. To drive sales during slower times, retailers can use sales and promotions to create short-term increases in purchases.

The past year has seen a remarkable trend towards casualisation , as evidenced by the top items women purchased with T-shirts, jeans, and activewear showing high purchase rates. Meanwhile, skirts and blouses have fallen lower on the list, reflecting the changing styles and preferences of women as well as the growing acceptance of casualwear in social environments.

Find more consumer trends and relevant opportunities for brands in the full report. You may also be interested to browse our Clothing, Footwear, and Accessories Market Research.

Definition and Brands Discussed

This Report will identify behaviours and preferences among female clothes shoppers, and it focuses on purchases that women 18+ make for themselves (versus as gifts). Clothing in this Report covers the following categories: jeans, pants/ slacks, suits, T-shirts, blouses, sweaters, dresses, skirts, jackets/ coats, blazers, swimwear, shorts and workout clothes (tops and bottoms).

Additional Features Included in Your Report

Different Digital Formats: PDF for conveniently sharing with your team, PowerPoint for quickly including in your presentation, as well as an Infographic and an interactive Excel Databook.

Mintel’s Clients Portal : Our portal offers instant access to actionable analysis and trends pieces relevant to your industry that are published almost daily. You can also browse for more market research reports.

Expert Analysis from a Retail Specialist

This report, written by Diana Smith, a leading retail and eCommerce analyst, delivers in-depth commentary and analysis to highlight current trends in the women’s clothing market, adding expert context to the numbers.

The women’s clothing market is still growing despite the current inflationary environment; however, its full potential is being stifled as women shift shopping behaviors to adjust to rising costs. Female shoppers remain focused on finding the right fit and want retailers to help them with this. They’re also keen to learn about retailers’ sustainability measures and improve their own eco-footprints, but they want to be rewarded for doing so. Looking ahead, circular shopping is likely to play a role in shaping the future of women’s clothing.

Diana Smith
Associate Director – Retail & eCommerce

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Overview

Executive Summary