The French apparel market is undergoing significant transformation as it grapples with changing consumer behaviors, economic pressures, and the rising demand for sustainability. According to GlobalData’s The Apparel Market in France to 2028 report, clothing is expected to be the weakest performing category among apparel, accessories, and footwear, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of just 1.9% from 2023 to 2028.
By 2028, clothing’s market share is forecasted to decline by 0.6 percentage points to 68.8%, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences.
Several factors contribute to the downturn in the clothing market. Primarily, French consumers are exhibiting a reduced interest in fast fashion and the constant churn of new trends. Financial concerns, coupled with heightened awareness of environmental impacts, are prompting consumers to shift their focus from quantity to quality. The growing preference for durable, versatile items over fast-fashion pieces is reshaping the landscape.
As the market reacts to these evolving priorities, consumers favor clothing that offers longevity and sustainability. Fast fashion, known for its rapid production cycles and often questionable environmental practices, is losing ground as shoppers become more conscious of the ecological cost of their wardrobe choices.
While clothing struggles, other categories within the apparel market are thriving. Accessories are the strongest performer, with a projected 2.8% CAGR, reaching $6.73 billion by 2028. This growth is primarily driven by the resilience of the luxury segment, where ultra-wealthy consumers are less affected by inflation and continue to indulge in high-end purchases.
Footwear is also expected to see healthy growth, with a 2.4% CAGR, increasing its market share by 0.3 percentage points to 20.4% by 2028. This is mainly attributed to the ongoing popularity of trainers, which provide comfort and versatility for a broad range of consumers. As shoppers prioritize value for money, the functional appeal of footwear that serves multiple purposes is increasingly attractive.
Within the clothing segment, womenswear is forecasted to experience the slowest growth, with a CAGR of just 1.4%. This shift reflects French women’s changing priorities, as they opt for fewer but higher-quality pieces that offer versatility across various settings. The decline in fast fashion’s allure means that women invest more in staple items, focusing on longevity rather than frequent purchases driven by fleeting trends.
In contrast, menswear is poised to lead the clothing category with a 2.8% CAGR. Men’s growing interest in fashion—particularly sportswear and streetwear—fuels this segment’s expansion. Childrenswear, essential due to constant growth spurts and wear-and-tear, is also expected to grow moderately, with a projected CAGR of 2.1%.
The shift in consumer behavior is not limited to product categories. The French retail landscape is also evolving, with a noticeable return to physical stores post-pandemic. However, the online apparel market is anticipated to regain momentum, with trends toward secondhand and sustainable fashion influencing buying patterns. Consumers increasingly favor brands that offer ethical production practices, transparency, and eco-friendly materials.
In the broader European context, the French apparel market’s performance mirrors trends seen elsewhere. In the UK, for instance, September saw deeper deflation in non-food categories like clothing and furniture, driving overall shop prices down to their lowest level since 2021. This signals a more cautious approach by consumers, driven by inflationary pressures and concerns over sustainability.
As we move toward 2028, the French apparel market will continue to face headwinds from financial challenges and evolving consumer values. However, categories like accessories and footwear will likely thrive as consumers seek luxury, comfort, and value for money. The focus on sustainability will also shift shopping habits, with consumers increasingly embracing secondhand clothing, capsule wardrobes, and brands prioritizing environmental and ethical standards.
With sustainability becoming a defining feature of the future market, brands that fail to adapt to these priorities risk losing relevance. For companies operating within the French apparel market, the key to success will be balancing financial pressures with the growing demand for ethical, long-lasting, and versatile fashion options.
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