01 July  2023, Mumbai

Fashion runways are witnessing a revival of smart and durable workwear styles in response to the increased demand for practical, comfortable, and inclusive fashion choices in the post-pandemic era. 

Workwear, including coveralls, uniforms, and overalls in denim or canvas with practical features and a multitude.

An overview

Revival of utilitarian workwear trends, driven by comfort and inclusivity, emerges post-pandemic, propelled by celebrities and Gen Z influencers.

High-tech innovations and sustainability shape its future.

The Rise of Utilitarian Clothing

Utilitarian clothing, encompassing workwear, army wear, sportswear, and streetwear, has expanded its presence in everyday fashion, thanks to the normalization of dressing-down days.

The influence of punk, skinhead, and football hooligan subcultures during the 80s has contributed to the ongoing trend of workwear clothing.

From Trendsetting Celebrities to Everyday Wardrobes

Sales Soar in Post-Covid Era; The comfort-focused dressing habits that emerged during the pandemic have significantly boosted workwear sales, particularly in the US market. This fashion culture has now gained popularity across Europe and other countries, finding its place in various casual settings.

Classic workwear pieces like overalls, cargo pants, jeans, and jackets are highly adaptable to different body shapes and sizes. Celebrity endorsements from icons like Rihanna, Kaia Gerber, Sydney Sweeney, and former US President Barack Obama have further popularized workwear in everyday life. 

Additionally, Generation Z and millennials are leveraging platforms like Instagram and TikTok to promote this fashion segment.

Workwear Redefines Changing Work Culture

Workwear fashion in India has witnessed a remarkable resurgence, combining practicality and style. This revival echoes the evolving work culture in the country, where traditional formal wear has given way to fashionable yet comfortable attire. 

The driving force behind this trend is the growing demand for workplace comfort and functionality. Indian workwear has become incredibly versatile, offering a wide array of styles and fabric choices. 

Spearheads the Fashion Culture

In a fascinating turn of events, many celebrities and individuals have embraced workwear as their go-to style. For instance, Timberland's renowned steel-toe work boots, originally designed for industry professionals, are now worn by a wide range of people, from plumbers to software engineers.

Timeless workwear staples such as Dickies' Classic Bib Overalls, known for their multiple pockets, have made a comeback and become a fashion statement for men in various casual settings.

Carhartt's famous hats and beanies, cherished for their quality, warmth, and personal style, have transcended their original purpose and are now worn by people of all ages. High school girls, in particular, adore them in vibrant rainbow colors.

Both Dickies and Carhartt, as century-old brands, have experienced a remarkable resurgence in the fashion scene, reimagining their image in the post-pandemic years.

Projections

According to a Grand View Research report, the global workwear market was valued at $16,773.3 million in 2021, and it is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6 percent from 2022 to 2030.

The sale of workwear is further propelled by sportswear brands. With their emphasis on durability, flexibility, and comfort, global sportswear players like Nike, Marmot, Puma, Adidas, Patagonia, Under Armour, Burton, ASICS, Columbia, and The North Face are integral to the workwear fashion movement.

Fashion Meets Function

Wearing well-fitted workwear is now considered a reflection of professionalism, especially in the manufacturing and corporate sectors. This demand is expected to continue driving the product's popularity.

While Kanye West and Julia Fox showcased workwear during New York Fashion Week, they were not the initiators of this trend. 

The rise in workplace accidents and fatalities worldwide has not only emphasized the need for appropriate work apparel and footwear but also given it a modern fashion twist, making it suitable for both casual settings and runway shows.

Denim or canvas coveralls, uniforms, and overalls, featuring numerous functional pockets and intricate details, are now gracing European fashion runways alongside women's evening gowns and men's tuxedos.

The Future of Workwear

High-Tech Innovation, Inclusivity, and Sustainability Shape Fashion Trends. 

The rising popularity of high-tech innovative outfits, designed for a perfect fit rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, as a fashion statement, presents immense opportunities for brands to thrive in the future. 

Workwear's resurgence is driven by a generation's embrace of gender fluidity, body positivity, authenticity, and environmentally friendly design choices. 

Embracing this trend, both men and women in India have embraced the blend of practicality and fashion, redefining their professional wardrobes to suit the changing times.

Latest Textile Events

27 June 2023, Mumbai

The fashion industry has taken notice of trendy tights, as seen on the spring/summer 2020 runways. Designers worldwide, including British designer Richard Quinn, have embraced this trend by creating tights adorned with bold floral patterns that complement their gown prints. 

Emerging opportunities; The trend of incorporating logos is also prevalent, with brands like Gucci, Saks Potts, and Fendi prominently featuring their signage on tights this season.

Balancing Fashion and Sustainability

However, the high cost of these fashionable stockings and environmental concerns have led to a boycott. 

The price of these tights often far exceeds their practical value, as they are typically worn only a few times before being discarded or torn apart, contributing to environmental issues. 

Environmental organizations such as Extinction Rebellion and the Environmental Audit Committee have investigated the impact of fast fashion and fur, and as a result, tights have come under scrutiny. 

Made from nylon emitting greenhouse gases, tights have become akin to single-use plastics in the textile industry. Their recycling process is challenging, and they often end up in landfills.

Tights Make a Statement

Fortunately, several hosiery manufacturers are now producing eco-friendly tights. Companies like Clayton offer socks made from a blend of yarns that incorporate eco-recycled nylon and microencapsulation technology. 

These yarns contain aloe vera, retinol, and vitamin E. Another brand, TLC runs a recycling program where customers can return their tights for melting, and the elastane content can be used in long-lasting plastic products such as car components. 

Environmental Concerns; Swedish Stockings is another brand that uses recycled polyamide, bio-cotton, and cashmere in their hosiery production, while also focusing on zero-waste facilities. 

Luxury hosiery label Wolford has launched a range of stockings made from recycled nylon waste and discarded fishing nets, with plans to expand their sustainable offerings. 

However, there remains skepticism about whether eco-friendly tights can be considered luxurious.

A Shift in Hosiery Manufacturing

Innerwear brand Heist also prioritizes durability in their tights. The brand has recently set sustainable goals for 2020, aiming to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse emissions. 

They plan to introduce their first line of tights made from recycled materials, utilizing sustainable technologies like Roica Eco Smart elastane and Fulgar Q-NOVA®, a sustainable Nylon 6.6 made in Italy from production waste.

The Downside of High Fashion

Despite the extra costs associated with these brands, consumers are compelled to consider sustainable options. Marks & Spencer addressed this issue by introducing ladder-resistant tights in 2007, offering extra durability and high-denier options, which have become the brand's bestsellers. 

However, the hosiery industry as a whole needs to undergo a revamp. While some brands have taken initial steps toward sustainability, substantial progress is still needed across the high street and among hesitant luxury brands.

US Market Diary

Technavio's latest market research report, titled "US Hosiery Market 2023-2027," predicts substantial growth in the US Hosiery market. 

Projected Market Expansion; The market is expected to increase by USD 2,992.99 million between 2022 and 2027, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.95%. The comprehensive report analyzes the market, encompassing key drivers, major trends, and challenges. 

Market Positioning

The report highlights the intense competition within the market, prompting vendors to implement growth strategies like promotional activities and increased advertising expenditure. 

Market positioning is emphasized, showcasing strategies employed by leading vendors such as Gildan Activewear SRL, Spanx LLC, Wells Hosiery, and Apparel USA. 

What drives market

Functionality Matters; Driving market growth are factors such as the high demand for designer and soft hosiery products, especially those made from organic and natural materials.

Additionally, the report identifies a significant trend of increasing demand for socks in the healthcare industry due to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases. 

Intense Competition Spurs Growth

However, changes in trade policies pose challenges to market growth, particularly with the influence of China as a major market contributor. 

Currently, over 80% of essential hosiery machinery and items are imported, creating a dependence on China and Taiwan. 

Holds limitless potential

The hosiery cotton industry in India holds significant potential and aligns well with the country's Make in India initiative. Over the past 30 years, hosiery production has grown in Delhi-NCR, Ludhiana, and Bangalore. 

However, there is still room for expansion in other cities like Jaipur, Indore, Pune, Kanpur, Varanasi, Nagpur, Surat, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Patna, and Ranchi. 

Promoting Domestic Manufacturing; To boost the industry, it is crucial to establish more hosiery mills and focus on self-reliance. 

By leveraging Prime Minister Modi's initiatives, India can become the world's largest hosiery producer and exporter, driving economic growth and employment opportunities.

Hosiery is in a sweet spot

The hosiery industry in India holds great growth potential, with expectations of a ten-fold expansion in the next 25 years. Emphasizing the long-term adoption of good cotton farming practices and striving for self-reliance, India can increase its global exports. 

Strengthening the Cotton Industry; Taking advantage of Prime Minister Modi's initiatives like 'Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas,' 'Make in India,' and 'Self-Reliant India,' Rikhab Chand Jain, Former President of the Federation of Hosiery Associations of India (FOHMA), highlighted the need for the industry to focus on becoming the world's largest hosiery producer and exporter.

Jain emphasized the importance of establishing more hosiery mills and expanding the industry beyond Delhi-NCR, Ludhiana, and Bangalore to cities like Jaipur, Indore, Pune, Kanpur, Varanasi, Nagpur, Surat, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Patna, and Ranchi.

 Latest Textile Events

23 June 2023, Mumbai

In May, India's textile and apparel industry encountered a significant setback as its exports witnessed a year-on-year decline of 12.2%. The industry continued to be plagued by low demand in crucial overseas markets, especially the United States.

What all you need to know

Show Low Demand

Textile exports contracted by 11.8%, while apparel exports experienced a decline of 12.7%. Other sectors also suffered, with jute products slumping by 29.3% and handicrafts and handmade carpets falling by 21.1%. 

May 2023 Figures Plummet

In May 2023, the total value of India's textile and apparel exports amounted to $2,816 million, compared to $3,206 million in May 2022.

The decline in exports was primarily attributed to sluggish demand in major importing countries such as the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, influenced by inflation and inventory accumulation. However, there are positive indications of improvement as exporters gradually secure new orders.

Turning point

The reopening of China after the COVID-19 pandemic also presents opportunities for business growth, particularly in the yarn and fabrics segment. Additionally, the moderation of domestic cotton prices offers hope for increased sales starting from July/August. Despite signs of recovery in the U.S. market, exports to the European Union have not met expectations.

Concerns Arise as Textile Imports Surpass Exports in India

Industry analysts are concerned as the country’s textile exports surpassed imports. Recently, there has been a growth in textile imports, driven not just by massive purchases of raw materials such as raw cotton, fabrics, and man-made textiles but surprisingly also of finished products. 

India, traditionally a major exporter saw its textile and garment imports grow almost t48.8 percent until November this fiscal from a year ago to $7.2 billion. At the same time, outbound shipments of such products dropped 13.4 percent to $23.1 billion. And officials say, these imports are likely to be over $10 billion in the current fiscal and that’s a record.

PLI, trade deals hope to decrease import dependence

As per a Financial Express report, apparel imports increased 53 percent to $1.2 billion in the first eight months of last year. 

This includes around 40 percent of garment imports from Bangladesh where many Indian companies have set up units over the past 15 years to take advantage of its duty-free access to large markets of the US and EU while another 20 percent has come from China.

However, experts feel once early investments made under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for textiles bear fruit, the situation will change for the better this fiscal. 

Supportive trade pacts 

Moreover, recent trade deals with the UAE and Australia will further improve the situation and the government’s efforts to improve cotton production will also reduce imports of basic raw material cotton in 2023. 

Supply chain

The current shortage of cotton in the domestic market has not only hiked up the fiber import percentage but harmed the production capacity of several units in the value chain. 

The increase in cotton prices also drove up the import value of both inputs and finished products along with Indian companies getting more garment supplies to India from their manufacturing units in Bangladesh.

Man-made fibers and other causes for export slump

With global consumption patterns currently focussed more on man-made fibers and technical textiles products, many factors such as the dominance of smaller businesses with limited scale manufacturing capacity and inflexible labor rules have affected this segment. 

Along with this, high logistics costs as well as stiffer competition from Bangladesh and Vietnam in the last decade have been detrimental to this segment.

Datapoint

As per a CCF Group study, in India where the main exports are textiles followed by apparel, there has been a slump for five consecutive months leading up to December 2022. 

Textile products such as cotton and yarn products which account for nearly one-third of the total were down 3.6 percentage points compared with the proportion of the same period last year which was down 12.2 percent over the same period last year.

From the volume of Indian cotton in the current markets, the 2022-23 Indian cotton yield is lower than expected in the previous period, which is a support for Indian cotton prices.

Although downstream demand is relatively weak, it will be further affected by the present high cotton prices and the year ahead doesn’t look too optimistic. 

Cotton trade dynamics

With cotton prices remaining high, there is not much significant improvement among its domestic midstream and upstream spinning and weaving mills where the operating rate remains at a low level and also lowers the actual international competitiveness of Indian textiles.

As per the CCF Group study, India’s low textile and apparel exports in 2022 were mainly due to a fall in exports in the second half of the year. What’s more, December stats do not show much improvement either. And the situation may not improve too much in the first quarter of 2023.

Opportunities for Growth

Urgent Need for Free Trade Agreement; Competing countries that enjoy duty-free access have an 11% cost advantage. Therefore, the industry strongly feels the need to expedite the free trade agreement with the United Kingdom.

Latest Textile Events

29 June 2023, Mumbai

The Indian denim market is experiencing steady growth, expanding at a rate of 8 to 9 percent annually. India has long been a leader in denim fabrics, and its domestic jeans market has been growing even faster than the global expansion rate.

What all you need to know

An overview

With an annual capacity of over 1,600 million meters, India possesses the second-largest installed capacity for denim fabrics in the world, trailing only behind China. The organized segment of the industry consists of over 50 denim fabric mills, representing a 60 percent increase compared to a decade ago. 

Of the total capacity, approximately 850 million to 900 million meters are consumed domestically, including the production of jeans for export. 

The remaining fabric is exported to various countries, such as Bangladesh, Colombia, Venezuela, Egypt, and Sri Lanka.

Genesis

The origin of jeans dates back to England, but it was later developed in American mills. Denim, the durable and rigid fabric used to make jeans, is created from cotton or cotton blends using a two-toned weaving technique that results in a distinctive diagonal pattern.

This technique involves using natural or white yarn in the horizontal position (weft) and dyed thread in the vertical position (warp), giving jeans their iconic blue appearance.

Cotton or cotton blends are commonly used in denim production. The cotton fibers are gathered, sorted, and processed into yarn, which is then woven into fabric. The fabric is dyed with indigo or other colors, depending on the desired design, to create the denim used in jeans manufacturing.

Cotton's Thirsty Footprint

Story of cotton or a cotton blend; However, it's worth noting that cotton is a water-intensive crop and not as environmentally sustainable as it may seem. The production of a standard cotton pair of denim jeans can consume more than 9,000 gallons of water, accounting for a significant portion of the water footprint in textile fiber manufacturing.

To expand their denim manufacturing capabilities, some mills are investing in spindles to capture additional domestic and international markets while reducing dependence on the yarn market. 

This backward integration allows businesses to manage raw material availability more effectively and schedule timely and cost-effective manufacturing. While newer companies are striving to expand, larger and more established mills continue to consolidate their position in the market.

How Denim Fabric Evolved

India's denim industry has played a crucial role in transforming denim fabric into a global fashion staple. 

The industry's manufacturing capabilities, competitive prices, and production of high-quality denim products have contributed to its success. 

The Evolution of Denim; The country's ability to diversify its denim exports and tap into non-traditional markets has further bolstered its growth.

Stretchability and Style

To cater to consumer demands, manufacturers in developed economies are investing in creating jeans with the "perfect fit," driving product innovation in the market. 

They are also incorporating synthetic fibers to provide stretchability, enhancing the appeal of jeans. Additionally, the increasing living standards and growing consumer awareness of various jean styles, such as boot cut, high rise, cropped, skinny, tapered, and regular fit, contribute to the expansion of the market.

Global Denim Fabric Market Set for Impressive Growth, Projected to Reach USD 27.38 Billion by 2028

Projected Growth: Jeanswear Market to Reach USD 118.28 Billion by 2030. On a global scale, the denim market is projected to reach a remarkable $153 billion, with India's growth surpassing other regions. 

Several factors drive the expansion of the Indian denim market, including rising demand for denim products, the influence of Western fashion trends, and the thriving online retail sector.

The jeanswear market is poised for significant growth, with a projected value of USD 118.28 billion by 2030, a substantial increase from USD 66.77 billion in 2021. This growth is expected to be driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.51% from 2023 to 2030.

Denim has been a wardrobe staple and a crucial component of the fashion industry for decades. 

The global denim market has witnessed steady growth, with a projected CAGR of over 6.5% from 2015 to 2020, increasing from $113 billion to $153 billion.

Opportunities Unlimited

Young Consumers Drive Growth: Comfort, Durability, and Versatility of Jeans; India's position in both domestic and international markets positions its denim industry for further growth. India's Growth Outpaces the Rest.

By consistently meeting the evolving demands of consumers, expanding into new markets, and embracing sustainable practices, the industry demonstrates its potential for sustained success in the coming years.

The popularity of jeans among younger consumers is one of the key factors contributing to this growth. Jeans are favored for their comfort, durability, and versatility, making them a preferred choice for many.

Sunrise

The Indian denim wear market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 15% in terms of retail sales. 

This growth is driven by rising disposable incomes, a rapidly expanding retail sector, the westernization trend, the booming internet retailing sector, a young population with higher spending power, and a wide range of consumer segments that consider denim as comfortable and stylish attire. 

Denim fabric exports from India reached US $190.78 million during the Jan.-Oct. '21 period, representing an 88.45% increase compared to the previous year. Bangladesh was the top market for Indian denim, importing $58.30 million worth of denim fabrics, showing a growth of 40.21% from January to October of this year.

Diversifying into Non-Traditional Markets; Colombia, Venezuela, and Egypt are the next three destinations for Indian denim exporters, with fabric shipments valued at US $32.71 million, US $13.32 million, and US $12.92 million, respectively, indicating significant growth.

In India, the denim market has experienced the fastest growth rate among apparel fabrics, with an annual CAGR of 15% to 18%. 

The current installed capacity of around 1,200 million meters is expected to rise to 2,000 million meters in the next few years. 

India has a significant advantage in the global market due to its access to various cotton and MMF fibers, attracting top global brands.

Industry experts predict that the denim share in international trade could achieve a CAGR of 10% over the next decade.

Latest Textile Events

26 June 2023, Mumbai

In April 2023, Zalando SE, the German online fashion and lifestyle platform operating in multiple European markets, including the UK, made an announcement about its upcoming launch of a personal shopping assistant powered by ChatGPT. 

What all you need to know

Introducing ChatGPT

This innovative assistant aims to help customers find the perfect products that align with their individual sense of style from Zalando's extensive range of brands and offerings. Initially, the beta version will be available to select customers in Germany, Ireland, the UK, and Austria, accessible through Zalando's app and web platforms. 

Generative AI, a subset of AI models, discovers trends and patterns within existing data, allowing for the generation of new information. ChatGPT is a powerful example of this transformative technology.

The personal shopping assistant will support both English and alternate languages subsequently.

Intuitive Shopping Experience

This new technology introduces a fresh approach to discovering Zalando's diverse assortment and provides customers with intuitive fashion inspiration. 

Fashion Discovery Redefined; For example, a Zalando shopper could inquire, "What should I wear to the office Christmas party in Berlin, where the entire board of directors will be present?" By leveraging ChatGPT's capabilities, the personal shopping assistant can understand the formality of the event, deduce the winter season in Berlin from the mention of Christmas, and generate a textual recommendation for suitable clothing and accessories. 

In the future, this functionality could be enhanced with customer preferences, including favored brands and available sizes, to deliver a more personalized selection of products.

The Power of Personalization

Zalando's adoption of ChatGPT as a personal shopping assistant follows in the footsteps of Adidas, which had previously introduced the AI-powered platform Findmine. Adidas successfully utilized Findmine to automatically generate complete outfit recommendations when customers browsed individual products. 

This implementation led to a significant reduction in the time spent by Adidas merchandisers on the online 'Complete the Look' recommendation feature and increased the number of items included in outfits for customers by an impressive 960%.

Revolutionizing Fashion Guidance

The fashion industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the revolutionary impact of ChatGPT.

Powered by advanced Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT-4, this technology is revolutionizing the way customers receive guidance and assistance. With its ability to create supercharged chatbots, hyper-personalized marketing copy, and innovative fashion discovery methods, ChatGPT is reshaping the landscape of fashion.

Unleashing the Power 

One groundbreaking application of ChatGPT is the development of the world's first AI stylist. This AI-powered stylist offers access to an extensive collection of curated fashion styles, meticulously tailored to specific occasions.

By leveraging the capabilities of generative AI and ChatGPT, fashion e-commerce is evolving in three key ways: personalized recommendations, enhanced product descriptions, and expert styling advice.

The Impact

Personalized recommendations are at the forefront of this revolution. ChatGPT's deep understanding of individual preferences, combined with its vast knowledge of fashion trends, enables it to deliver tailored recommendations that resonate with customers on a personal level.

This level of personalization enhances the shopping experience, helping customers discover items that perfectly align with their unique sense of style.

Groundbreaking Application

Moreover, ChatGPT enhances product descriptions, creating engaging and informative content that captures the essence of each fashion item. By leveraging its language generation capabilities, ChatGPT can generate compelling and detailed descriptions that go beyond basic specifications.

This enriched product information enables customers to make more informed purchasing decisions.

Empowering Fashion

Styling advice is another area where ChatGPT shines. With its vast knowledge of fashion styles and its ability to comprehend specific occasions or requirements, ChatGPT can serve as a virtual stylist, offering expert guidance and suggesting suitable outfits for various events or personal preferences. 

This personalized styling advice empowers customers to explore new fashion choices and experiment with their looks.

Enhancing the Shopping Journey

The versatility of ChatGPT positions it as an ideal candidate for a personal shopping assistant and more. The fashion industry can now view ChatGPT as a valuable partner. Tian Su, the Vice President of Personalization and Recommendation at Zalando, expressed excitement about experimenting with ChatGPT and helping customers discover fashion they will love. 

Zalando aims to gain a deeper understanding of its customers' needs and preferences and explore the potential benefits ChatGPT can bring to their shopping journey. Zalando's focus remains on continuously testing and introducing new solutions to provide the best possible experience for its customers.

How AI Revolutionizes Fashion

ChatGPT demonstrates an extraordinary level of personalization, utilizing data on current fashion trends, styles, and individual preferences. Through collaborative filtering, it presents comprehensive recommendations that are easy to comprehend and also consider the customer's budget if provided. 

The outcome is a highly rewarding and efficient personalized shopping experience.

A Valuable Partner

Beyond Zalando's personal shopping assistant, ChatGPT holds significant potential for various retail businesses. It can assist with successful product launches, analyze customer feedback, reviews, and social media conversations, conduct competitor analysis, drive social media engagement, facilitate upselling and cross-selling during customer interactions, forecast trends, and provide localization and language support for global brands.

The Versatility

The remarkable versatility of this software equips businesses with a refined and well-informed environment, enabling them to make informed decisions, remain competitive, and stay relevant in the ever-changing world of fashion.

The Future of Fashion

ChatGPT is spearheading a revolution in the fashion industry by delivering increasingly relevant and helpful guidance to customers. Through personalized recommendations, enhanced product descriptions, and expert styling advice, 

ChatGPT is transforming fashion e-commerce, enabling customers to make informed choices and discover new fashion possibilities. The future of fashion is being shaped by the powerful capabilities of ChatGPT and generative AI, leading to a more personalized and immersive shopping experience.

Latest Textile Events

22 June 2023, Mumbai

The concept of the immersive metaverse holds immense potential in the apparel sector, revolutionizing the way brands, designers, and consumers engage with fashion.

By leveraging augmented reality and virtual reality technologies, the immersive metaverse offers a transformative experience that merges the physical and digital realms.

What all you need to know

The role of events presenting what the future holds

The concept of the immersive metaverse, as depicted in the given text, represents a significant advancement in the realm of experiential events and trade shows. 

By leveraging augmented reality and 3D technology, Milano Unica aims to create a virtual space where individuals can interact and engage with the event as if they were physically present, transcending spatial limitations.

The Metaverse Boom: Engaging Users and Unveiling the Dark Side

As Investment Grows: Investments in the metaverse are soaring, leading to powerful and affordable hardware and software. Tech firms have high expectations for this market.

Consumer Brands Enter the Digital Realm: Consumer brands are seizing digital real estate to cater to the growing demand for experiences beyond the physical world.

Importance of User Engagement: Engaging people on the metaverse platform is crucial for all stakeholders involved.

Introducing Immersive Time (ImT): Immersive Time (ImT) is the dedicated use of headsets and accessories to escape reality and engage in the metaverse. Multitasking becomes limited in ImT.

Recognizing the Dark Side: Prolonged ImT usage is important but one must acknowledge its inherent drawbacks.

Implications for Researchers and Practitioners: Understanding ImT is vital for researchers, tech developers, brand managers, and policymakers ensuring customer safety in the metaverse.

This immersive metaverse introduces a new level of engagement and interactivity for attendees. 

It allows visitors to explore the virtual environment, guided by the Milano Unica avatar, which serves as a virtual representation of the event. The avatar not only assists in navigating the metaverse but also provides updates, tips, and information on the showcased novelties.

Experiential

The thematic communities within the metaverse, such as Night, Family, and Culture, serve as creative cues for the upcoming Fall/Winter 2024/2025 season. By integrating fabric and accessory collections that align with these themes, Milano Unica creates an engaging and captivating environment for visitors, further enhancing the immersive experience.

Innovation & imagination

By blurring the lines between reality and the metaverse, Milano Unica aims to amplify its distinctive values and deliver an enriched experience for attendees. This concept goes beyond traditional trade shows by providing a platform where individuals can interact, explore, and be inspired by the showcased products and themes in a virtual space. 

The immersive metaverse offers a unique opportunity for innovation and creativity, transforming the way people participate in events and fostering a sense of connectivity in a digitally enhanced world.

Enhancing engagement: Stickiness

Overall, the concept of the immersive metaverse, as exemplified by Milano Unica, showcases the potential of virtual environments to revolutionize the way we engage with events, trade shows, and creative experiences. 

It opens up new possibilities for connecting people from diverse locations, eliminating spatial constraints, and creating immersive journeys that transcend physical boundaries.

Bridging the Gap Between Online and In-Store

In this virtual space, brands can showcase their collections in a dynamic and interactive manner. 

Dynamic Showrooms and Virtual Try-Ons; Consumers can explore virtual showrooms, try on virtual garments, and experience a lifelike representation of how the apparel would look and fit in the real world. 

This immersive experience bridges the gap between online shopping and the tactile nature of in-store experiences, providing a unique and engaging way for consumers to interact with fashion.

Unlocking Creative Expression

For designers, the immersive metaverse presents a platform for experimentation and creativity. 

Virtual Fashion Shows and Innovative Designs; They can create virtual fashion shows, where the boundaries of reality are pushed, and new forms of expression are embraced. 

Designers can manipulate digital fabrics, experiment with innovative patterns, and present their collections in fantastical virtual settings, offering a glimpse into the future of fashion.

Building Global Communities

The immersive metaverse also opens up opportunities for collaborative experiences. Brands, designers, and consumers can connect and interact in real-time, transcending geographical limitations. 

This fosters a sense of community and inclusivity, enabling fashion enthusiasts from around the world to come together and share their passion for style and creativity.

Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future: Minimizing Waste and Environmental Impact

Furthermore, the immersive metaverse offers sustainability benefits. Reducing the need for physical prototypes and samples minimizes waste and the environmental impact of traditional fashion production. 

Virtual garments can be showcased, experimented with, and modified without physical resources, paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient fashion industry.

Real-Time Connections and Inclusive Experiences

The concept of the immersive metaverse in the apparel sector represents a paradigm shift in the way fashion is experienced, designed, and consumed. It combines technology, creativity, and community, offering a seamless blend of the physical and virtual worlds.

The Path Forward: A research agenda is proposed to enhance comprehension of consumer behavior and engagement in the metaverse. 

With its potential to enhance engagement, foster innovation, and promote sustainability, the immersive metaverse has the power to shape the apparel industry's future.

Latest Textile Events

26 June 2023, Mumbai

With increased global awareness of health and fitness, the Indian attitude towards swimwear has been gradually changing, despite it being a relatively new segment in the apparel industry.
Many Indian fashion brands have recognized this shift and entered the swimwear market, offering innovative designs in popular styles such as bikinis and one-piece cut-away swimsuits.

What all you need to know
On the roll
Additionally, other silhouettes like monokinis, swimming dresses, and even burkinis have become part of the extended swimwear portfolio in India and other traditional countries.
Driven by Health and Fitness Awareness
The growth in the swimwear retail market can be attributed to various factors, including the thriving beach travel industry, the influence of social media, the rise of physical fitness, and even the inclusion of swimwear in destination weddings as part of the bride's trousseau.

Experts suggest that the swimwear segment boasts a profit margin of around 40 percent, especially due to the impact of New Age social media.
Global view
According to the latest report from Statista, a leading global provider of market and consumer data, the revenue in the global sports and swimwear segment is expected to reach $817.70 million in 2023, with an annual growth rate of 2.16 percent from 2023 to 2027.

In global comparison, a significant portion of this revenue comes from the United States, projected to reach $12,600 million in 2023, with a volume growth rate of 2.4 percent in 2024.
The Emerging Indian Swimwear Market
In India, numerous domestic brands have emerged over the past decade, posing stiff competition to international brands by offering versatile designs that cater to the shape and preferences of Indian women.
As fashion matures in India, more homegrown labels are venturing into the swimwear market, while international niche swimwear brands are also launching in the country.
Options galore; Notable international retailers like Madewell are expanding their range by incorporating third-party brands to diversify their offerings and attract new customers.

For instance, Madewell currently stocks 14 external swimwear brands. Similarly, M&S has extended its branded offerings by stocking brands like Sosandar and Fantasie.
Growing Demand
According to Allied Market Research, a renowned consulting and advisory firm, the global swimwear market was valued at $18,454 million in 2017.

Recent reports indicate healthy growth rates in India, with the market currently estimated to be worth Rs 150-200 crores and growing at a rate of 15-20 percent year-on-year.
Innovative Designs and Cultural Adaptations
Bespoke and innovative swimwear is gaining momentum, catering to diverse preferences and cultures.

For example, Mezzaluna, owned by Ajay and Kalpana Rajpal, offers a portfolio of bespoke swimsuits that range from tiny bikinis to covers-more silhouettes like monokinis and burkinis.
Beyond beachwear
Swimsuits are no longer confined to beachwear; they are now entering traditional dressing as bikinis can double as sari blouses, and maillots can be worn as bodysuits.

This shift is especially relevant with the rise of destination weddings. Neha Gupta, the founder of Exchange4Fashion, mentions that international luxury labels in India are focusing on innovative styling that suits Indian women's body shapes, incorporating overlay styles.
The Rise of Swimwear
As the swimwear market expands, entry-level prices of most brands are increasing while also providing inclusive product descriptions that emphasize slimming design abilities.

The emphasis is on inspiring body confidence while ensuring optimal shape and fitness.
Specialized niche designs, such as long-torso swimsuits and period-proof swimsuits made from recycled fabrics with Modifier Swim Technology (absorbent, stain, and odor-resistant), are also gaining popularity.

The focus on sustainability and ethical fashion is evident, with brands like Speedo and various startups producing swimwear from recycled materials. Startups are also adopting sweatshop-free production methods and using ecologically sound materials.

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24 June 2023, Mumbai

Indian fashion designers are redefining the industry with their fusion of Indian culture and contemporary elements, showcasing their exceptional craftsmanship.

What all you need to know

From everyday wear to opulent bridal couture, their ability to create wearable yet unique pieces sets them apart. While some have gained global recognition with their talented design teams, others work behind the scenes, contributing their skills to renowned fashion houses like Versace, Hermès, Christian Louboutin, Gucci, Prada, and Dior.

Manish Malhotra: India's Wealthiest Fashion Designer

Manish Malhotra reigns as India's wealthiest fashion designer, but he is not alone at the top. Tarun Tahiliani, Ritu Kumar, Rohit Bal, Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Neeta Lulla, Masaba Gupta, Anamika Khanna, and Anita Dongre have also carved their own paths, attracting loyal customers worldwide with their unique selling propositions.

Synergistic Partnerships: A Win-Win for Designers and Corporates

A growing trend among designers is partnering with corporate giants and companies with technical expertise to expand globally and penetrate smaller Indian towns. These collaborations benefit both parties, accelerating growth beyond what they could achieve individually.

For example, Tarun Tahiliani secured funding from the Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Group (ABFRL) due to his long-standing relationship with Chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla, a loyal customer of Tahiliani's Ensemble. ABFRL also acquired a 51% stake in House of Masaba Lifestyle, owned by designer Masaba Gupta, known for its apparel, personal care products, and accessories.

Reliance Brands acquired controlling stakes in Ritu Kumar, Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, and Manish Malhotra. These strategic investments are reshaping the luxury market. Previously, Kishore Biyani's Future Group held a 23% stake in Anita Dongre, which was later sold to private equity firm General Atlantic.

Tradition, Modernity, and Variations in Rural and Urban Populations

Indian fashion designers skillfully fuse tradition and modernity, infusing their creations with vibrant colors, intricate craftsmanship, and luxurious textiles. Inspired by the country's bustling markets, majestic temples, and vibrant attire, their distinctive styles capture the essence of India.

Tradition meets Modernity
While foreign designers and brands have influenced Indian fashion, introducing elements of corporate dressing, Indian designers have embraced the trend with a contemporary twist, resulting in the fusion wear trend

Exploring Clothing Behavior and the Impact of Mass Media 

This article delves into the dynamic clothing behavior of individuals, specifically investigating the influence of mass media on clothing selection, stitching, and embroidery.

The primary objective is to uncover variations in clothing patterns between rural and urban populations, focusing on the intricate interplay between tradition and modernity.

Shaping future

By examining the driving forces behind changing clothing trends, such as technology and mass media, the study reveals that mass media, particularly through silver screen broadcasts, wields considerable influence in shaping public preferences and inspiring emerging designs and fashion trends. Furthermore, peer pressure contributes significantly to the adoption of trendy clothing styles.

The study observes a contrasting perception of present clothing trends between the older and younger generations, with the former considering them immodest and attention-seeking while the latter embraces contemporary fashion.

This divide can be attributed to the elderly's affinity for traditional clothing styles and the younger generation's inclination towards Western fashion trends that prioritize aesthetics and comfort. Additionally, middle-aged individuals are gradually accepting the value and comfort offered by trendy clothes.

The study underscores the significance of clothing trends in the context of tradition and modernity, particularly among respondents from upper castes. However, respondents from Scheduled Castes and Backward Castes perceive present clothing trends as immodest to a significant extent, despite acknowledging their aesthetic and comfortable qualities.

Clothing trends are influenced by various interconnected factors, including age, social class, caste, education, and geographical location.

The prevalence of Western or trendy clothes is higher in urban areas compared to rural areas, suggesting a gradual assimilation of Western fashion into Indian society without completely replacing traditional attire.

Socio-fabric

The level of assimilation varies based on the socio-economic characteristics of villages or wards. Notably, Western clothes, especially t-shirts and parallel pants, are popular choices due to their comfort and are worn both indoors and outdoors.

Rural respondents primarily utilize them as indoor wear, while urban respondents incorporate them into their everyday attire.

Inspiring India
India boasts a wealth of talented designers who seamlessly blend reverence for age-old traditions with innovative aesthetics.

From Icons to Rising Stars
The Diverse Spectrum of Indian Fashion; From industry veterans like Ritu Kumar, who has been shaping Indian fashion since 1969, to rising stars like Kanika Goyal and Priyanka Ella Lorena Lama, the spectrum of Indian fashion encompasses ornate bridal ensembles and minimalist day-wear, creating a truly extraordinary range of styles.

Expanding Luxury Market and Shifting Focus

The global luxury fashion market is valued at $1.53 billion in 2023, projected to grow at a CAGR of 1.32% from 2023 to 2028, according to Statistica. Indian luxury fashion houses have transitioned from solely targeting global markets to becoming significant domestic consumer markets for apparel and accessories.

International brands are now forging partnerships with Indian corporate houses, while renowned designers are increasingly prioritizing the domestic market over the global and non-residential Indian (NRI) market.

Capitalizing on Growing Affluence

Knight Frank's Wealth Report 2023 forecasts a remarkable 58.4% increase in India's ultra-high-net-worth individuals and individuals with a net worth exceeding $30 million, rising from 12,069 in 2022 to 19,119 by 2027.

These partnerships allow designers to leverage their understanding of affluent Indian customers and benefit from corporate houses' expertise in digital platforms, retail operations, marketing, and supply chain management. Simultaneously, corporate houses provide a platform for designers and local artistic talent to merge with their well-established global presence in fashion and luxury retail.

The Path to Effective Collaborations and Future Growth

To thrive in global markets, Indian designers must meet various requirements and adopt forward-thinking approaches, addressing issues like green-washing and responsible sourcing.

Success requires meticulous attention to detail. As the competition intensifies, expect more mergers and innovative strategies to propel the industry forward.

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21 June 2023, Mumbai

Cautious Consumer Behavior; Consumers are exercising caution when purchasing clothing and accessories due to the higher prices of daily goods, leading to a constraint on their discretionary spending. This cautious approach is affecting the demand for fashion products. 

What all you need to know

Lackluster Retail Sales and Early End-of-Season Sales

Retail sales have been lackluster in April and May, prompting companies to initiate early end-of-season sales to manage their inventory. The subdued sales performance is attributed to cautious consumer behavior and higher prices of goods. 

Slower Growth Rate for Fashion Retailers

Industry analysts anticipate a slower growth rate of 10% in revenues for fashion retailers in the current financial year. This growth rate is a significant decrease from the 51% increase reported in the previous year. 

Soft Demand Scenario and Weak Footfall

The demand for lifestyle products remains soft across various categories, price ranges, and geographical regions. Footfall in stores has been weak, although there has been a modest improvement in revenue trends in June.

Anchored Inflationary Expectations for FY24

Headwinds; Dampener Discretionary spending cut hurts Apparel Industry.

ICRA expects demand pressures on fashion retailers to persist in the first half of the fiscal year, with the hope of improvement during the festive season. However, revenue growth is expected to moderate in FY24 due to inflationary headwinds.

ICRA's analysis suggests a decline in revenue growth for listed retail entities and a decrease in operating profit margins. 

Impact of Higher Raw Material Costs and Discount Sales

Retailers have had to pass on high raw material costs to consumers, contributing to higher prices for the Spring-Summer 2023 collection. To stimulate demand and clear inventory, retailers have advanced discount sales by a week. Shifting Consumer Spending and Overall Footfall

Consumers may be shifting their spending from apparel to experience-led expenses like food and beverages, resulting in a decline of 7-8% in overall footfall across the country. 

Cautionary Consumer Behavior Impacts Fashion Retailers as Prices Rise

Weak retail sales have led to lackluster performance for fashion retailers, resulting in the early initiation of end-of-season sales. Analysts expect a slower revenue growth rate of 10% this year, down from the previous year's 51%. 

RAI prognosis

Demand for lifestyle products remains soft across various categories and regions, although there has been a modest improvement in June. In May, the Retailers Association of India reported a 7% sales growth, with moderate progress in jewelry and apparel, but the lowest growth in sportswear since the pandemic.

Festive season to perk up 

ICRA predicts ongoing demand pressure in the first half of the year, which is expected to improve during the festive season. However, inflationary challenges will limit revenue growth in FY24, with listed retail entities projected to experience a 10% decline in revenue and a 5.7% drop in profit margins.

Inflationary pressures

Since 2022, tepid demand has persisted due to high raw material costs being passed on to consumers. Prices for the Spring-Summer 2023 collection remain high due to previous increases in cotton prices, although cotton yarn prices are starting to soften. 

To stimulate demand and clear inventory, retailers are offering advanced discount sales. Footfall has decreased by 7-8%, potentially due to consumers prioritizing experiential expenses over apparel purchases.

Global view

The global apparel industry is bracing for a slowdown this year as macroeconomic tensions and dwindling consumer confidence eat into the profits of retailers, following a post-Covid surge in 2022. Key sectors like electronics, garments, furnishings, and automobiles are now scrutinizing the distinction between essential and non-essential products for daily living.

Apparel Industry Faces Slowdown as Consumer Confidence Wanes and Economic Tensions Rise

Consumers are less inclined to replace high-priced, long-lasting items such as electronics, luxury fashion apparel, and cars with newer versions in 2023. 

The apparel industry has also been impacted by rising cotton prices, leading to a decline in sales. While there was a strong sales performance in the second half of last year, the trend has become increasingly volatile in subsequent quarters.

US retail spending takes a hit

US consumers have significantly reduced their impulsive shopping for apparel and accessories, delaying the replacement and upgrading of electronics. PYMNTS, a reputable global leader in data analysis, highlighted in a recent report that US retail spending has decreased by approximately $8 billion in recent months. 

The research indicates that 67 percent of retail customers anticipate significant price increases next year, and the average global consumer does not expect inflation to normalize until the end of 2024. Data from the US Census Bureau also reveals a 1 percent decline in general spending on a seasonally adjusted basis, following a 0.2 percent decline from February to January 2023.

Prophecy

According to McKinsey's fashion forecast, fashion retailers are projected to experience slow sales growth of -2% to +3%, primarily due to a contraction in the European market (-1% to -4%). 

However, China and the United States are expected to have better performance, with growth rates of 2% to 7% and 1% to 6% respectively. Initially, during the pandemic, fashion took a backseat as consumers focused on more essential needs such as food and health, leading to a shift in demand.

Quick Comparison

Not only did the electronics and appliances segment experience a month-on-month decrease of 2.1 percent and a year-on-year decline of approximately 10.3 percent, but the home furniture and home furnishings segment also saw a decline of 1.2 percent and 2.4 percent, respectively. Spending on branded clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories also slipped by 1.7 percent month on month and 1.8 percent compared to the previous year.

Questionable claims

In addition to the slowdown, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has been cautioning advertisers to substantiate claims about their products, issuing notices to over 670 companies warning them of potential civil penalties if their ads contain unsubstantiated claims. As consumers tighten their budgets, many companies resort to making false claims and misleading advertisements to entice customers into buying their products.

Textile sales slow down in India

In India, the slowdown is not limited to apparel but has also affected fine dining restaurants and liquor segments, which had seen a surge in sales last year as consumers eagerly returned to wining and dining. 

However, the demand growth in feel-good categories like apparel, quick service restaurants, and lifestyle products has started to taper off, as the peak period has already passed. 

Although apparel players may appear to experience high growth in favorable seasons, overall demand trends remain relatively unchanged. Rising cotton prices have hit small-town consumers the hardest, as they are particularly price-sensitive.

Discretionary

According to a report by HDFC Securities, the peak demand in discretionary categories appears to be behind us. Growth was facilitated by higher ticket sizes, store expansion, and increased footfall, but many of these factors are now normalizing. 

In Q4, there are already signs of scaled-back expansion plans across various categories, and ticket sizes are also returning to normal levels. 

Discretionary spending may weaken in Q4, with apparel and lifestyle companies expecting sales growth of only 15-20 percent. Experts caution that pent-up demand cannot be sustained indefinitely as people revert to their normal consumption habits.

Uncertainty is the new certainty

The apparel industry faces challenges in the form of exposure to a downcycle and the sustainability of certain segments. 

Inflation poses the greatest threat, as deteriorating macroeconomics and job losses weighed heavily on the industry in the second half of 2022 and continue to create uncertainty in the fashion segment in the initial months.

Conclusion

The combination of cautious consumer behavior, lackluster sales, inflationary pressures, and shifting spending patterns poses challenges for fashion retailers. 

The industry expects a moderate growth rate for the current financial year and anticipates improved demand during the festive season. 

Retailers are adjusting their strategies by offering discounts and managing inventory to navigate these challenging market conditions.

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