Global underwear market to be fuelled by athleisure, customisation

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Jun 5, 2017

The ubiquitous athleisure trend is expected to be central to the growth of the global intimate apparel market over the next five years with sports bras becoming a leader among versatile and fashionable innerwear, according to a new report.

The study from Research and Markets on the global intimate apparel market and its growth prospects has estimated the sector will grow at a CAGR of 4.3% between 2017 and 2021.

As consumers increase their adoption of athletic clothing at work places and for social occasions, key lingerie vendors are expected to take this evolution as an opportunity to expand their business from traditional lingerie to more versatile intimate apparel.

Bra customisation will be another major driver for the market, reflecting a new understanding of intimate apparel as fashion apparel. With most brands now adding new collections regularly to attract more consumers, more emphasis on customisation of bras will help retailers increase their customer base.

Additionally, intimate apparel will be available in multiple colours, patterns and designs, targeting consumers who prefer matching their daily clothes with complementary lingerie.

Key vendors over the next five years will be AEO Management, Fruit of the Loom, Hanesbrands, Jockey International, L Brands and PVH, with other prominent vendors including Aimer, Chantelle, Embry Holdings, Triumph International, Urban Outfitters, Wacoal and Stella McCartney.