Sustainable Fashion Market

Sustainable Fashion Market Size and Share:

The global sustainable fashion market size was valued at USD 9.22 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 64.4 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 22.70% from 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 37.5% in 2024. The market is primarily driven by rising awareness of ethical production, innovation in eco-friendly materials, favorable regulatory measures promoting responsible practices, growth in second-hand markets, and a strong focus on reducing environmental impact through conscious consumerism.

The increasing consumer demand for ethically produced and environmentally friendly products is a major contributor to the market growth. Additionally, growing awareness of the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion has been compelling companies to take on sustainability. According to an industry report published on December 19, 2024, spending on apparel, accessories, and footwear resale exceeded traditional retail throughout 2024, driven by a focus on sustainability, value, and uniqueness from the consumer. The report stated that consumers aged 25 to 44 had augmented their resale spending share 6% year over year, while middle-income consumers were also significant contributors. The report suggests strong momentum for the resale sector in 2025 as consumers remain focused on affordability and sustainability in an uncertain economic climate. Moreover, ongoing innovations in textile production, such as the introduction of eco-friendly materials and recycling technologies, is further facilitating market expansion.

The United States is a key regional market and is experiencing growth due to rapid development in circular economy models that design products to last and be recyclable create lucrative opportunities for the market. Besides this, regulatory frameworks and policies provide support for sustainable production systems and consumption. In line with this, rising consumer demand for eco-friendly products fueled by increasing environmental awareness and an ongoing shift toward conscious living is propelling the market. Retailers are responding by offering more sustainable options, while brands are innovating with materials and production methods that reduce waste and carbon footprints, thereby impacting the market positively. A YouGov survey published in 2024, reveals U.S. consumers’ views on fashion. 37% agree fast fashion is linked to environmental indifference, with 50% of Gen Z and 44% of Millennials in agreement. 67% would pay more for quality items, and 29% buy exclusively from sustainable brands. 67% want transparency in product origins, while 43% support fair trade. Moreover, 40% are open to second-hand shopping.. Apart from this, social media platforms and new ethical fashion influencers are changing consumer preferences.

Sustainable Fashion Market Trends:

Rise of Digital Fashion

Digital fashion, with its unique offerings for consumers, is shaping sustainable fashion market trends. Digital fashion refers to the creation and sale of digital garments on the internet as avatars, virtual events, or postings to social media networks. This trend is gaining popularity due to minimized waste and reduced carbon emissions. Digital fashion allows experimenting with different styles without contributing to overconsumption or the creation of landfill waste. In addition, virtual clothing is used in video games, virtual reality (VR) environments, or social media platforms. In this, people can dress themselves differently without the environmental cost of manufacturing physical garments. For instance, on March 20, 2024, DRESSX launched its innovative DRESSX Gen AI technology, allowing users to dress their photos through simple text prompts digitally. This cutting-edge generative AI system offers real-time, accurate digital outfits trained on DRESSX's extensive digital fashion library. Accessible via a Discord bot, the platform provides users with personalized digital fashion experiences, aligning with DRESSX's mission to render digital fashion more accessible and sustainable. This is an innovation adopted by most fashion brands to create unique digital collections for online platforms or virtual fashion shows. Digital fashion becomes necessary in the ever-developing technology as a sustainable element that will maintain the excitement and creativity shown by designers and consumers.

Growth of Second-hand and Upcycled Fashion

The growing interest in second-hand and upcycled fashion is significantly influencing the sustainable fashion market share. Upcycling clothing and using garments with pre-owned quality are sustainable alternatives to traditional options, where designers transform existing or discarded garments into fashion products that are new and at a great quality level. Thrift stores, reselling platforms, and online marketplaces are flourishing due to new consumers seeking out second-hand and upcycled fashion. This trend promotes the reuse of textiles, reducing waste from new raw materials while providing opportunities for creativity and innovative design of garments. Second-hand shopping is mainstream and also contributes to a more sustainable and circular fashion ecosystem. For example, on January 25, 2024, THE OUTNET unveiled an exclusive upcycled capsule collection with E.L.V. DENIM, a luxury brand famous for turning post-consumer waste into luxurious apparel. The 50-piece limited edition features reimagined denim, leather, and knitwear all made in East London, through sustainable processes. This partnership puts forward the concept of circularity and waste reduction with every product coming along with a Digital ID that holds comprehensive product information, a reflection of consumer demand that has been rising for sustainable fashion.

Increasing Eco-conscious Consumerism

Eco-conscious consumerism is one of the main drivers of the sustainable fashion market, where consumers are increasingly conscious of their purchasing decisions and the impacts on the environment and society. An industry report published on September 5, 2024, indicates that 48.8% of French consumers purchased a sustainable fashion product during the year. In Germany, 64.9% of 18-24-year-olds bought sustainable fashion. And in the UK, 65.7% of 18-24-year-olds chose sustainable fashion, against 47.4% for the general population. Also, the report highlights that one in five Americans aged 25-34 follow the recommendations of fashion influencers most of the time when purchasing. This trend demands transparency from brands, ethical production practices, and eco-friendly materials. Consumers support companies that prioritize sustainability and fair labor practices. Also, consumers hold brands accountable through social media and activism. Major factors promoting sustainable fashion have been environmental NGOs, grassroots movements, and fashion influencers. With the increasing awareness regarding sustainable fashion among consumers, consumer behavior shifts are observed toward long-lasting items of good quality. This shift forces brands to incorporate more responsible practices to meet consumer expectations.

Sustainable Fashion Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global sustainable fashion market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on product type, fabric type, end-user and distribution channel.

Analysis by Product Type:

• Apparel
• Footwear
• Accessories
• Jewelry
• Bags
• Others

Apparels leads the market with around 46.3 % of the market share in 2024, due to the change in consumer behavior due to the growing environmental consciousness. It further augments the demand for eco-friendly clothing and strict regulatory frameworks for the encouragement of sustainable practices, leading to more organic fabrics, recycled materials, and low-impact methods of production. The advancements in sustainable manufacturing technologies contribute to increased investments in ethical supply chains. Additionally, with the help of digital platforms, sustainability-conscious apparel brands are easily reaching consumers. This enhances higher participation in conscious consumption. Companies respond to this growing need by innovating product lines, which ensure style is preserved without sacrificing environmental values. The apparel segment is a key driver in this market, reflecting the growing alignment of fashion with sustainability goals and resonating with environmentally conscious consumers who are shaping the future of the fashion industry.

Analysis by Fabric Type:

• Recycled Fabrics
• Organic Fabrics
• Regenerated Fabrics
• Natural Fibers
• Alternate Fibers
• Others

Organic fabrics lead the market in 2024, attributed to an increased demand for more eco-friendly and ethically produced materials. These fabrics are from natural sources such as organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo, which are grown without synthetic chemicals. Therefore, it reduces environmental impacts and provides safer working conditions for farmers. The growth of organic fabric in the market is due to the increased awareness among customers concerning sustainability and healthy benefits for humans from non-toxic apparel. Government initiatives for developing sustainable agriculture and global certifications, such as GOTS, further facilitate the development of organically produced fabric. Apart from this, innovations and versatility add to the better quality, thereby attracting consumers. As fashion brands prioritize sustainability, the demand for organic fabrics highlights a pivotal shift toward greener practices in the market.

Analysis by End-User:

• Men
• Women
• Children
• Unisex

The male segment in the sustainable fashion market is witnessing a substantial increase as companies are seeking to meet the growing need for sustainable clothing. From being functional, men are now prioritizing sustainability and style, and this is reflected in the adoption of sustainable materials and ethical production methods such as organic cotton shirts and recycled polyester jackets. Online and social media have exposed male consumers to a greater extent to sustainable options, increasing brand engagement. Since the demand for products that promote environmental and ethical values is increasing among men, this segment plays a vital role in increasing market size and driving broader adoption of sustainable practices.

In the sustainable fashion market, women hold a significant share of consumers and trends, which raises the demand for environmentally friendly and ethically produced apparel. There is a diverse range of products for women, including organic fabric dresses, recycled material activewear, and vegan leather accessories. Brand transparency, sustainability certifications, and fair-trade practices increasingly influence women's purchasing decisions. Brands catering to this segment often prioritize innovation and variety to meet preferences for both style and sustainability. Social media and influencer-driven campaigns have amplified awareness among women, positioning them as pivotal to the market's growth.

The children's segment in sustainable fashion highlights growing awareness among parents about the environmental and health impacts of clothing. Parents increasingly favor organic fabrics, non-toxic dyes, and durable, biodegradable materials for children's apparel. This segment has seen innovation in functional yet fashionable sustainable offerings that can accommodate growing children without sacrificing any environmental footprints. Educational campaigns and certification programs have assured parents of the safety and sustainability of these products. As sustainable practices become integral to parenting choices, the children's segment contributes significantly to the broader market, driving demand for ethical and eco-friendly production.

Unisex represents a dynamic and inclusive segment of the sustainable fashion market, emphasizing versatility and gender neutrality. By focusing on minimalistic designs and universal appeal, brands in this category reduce overproduction and waste, aligning closely with sustainability goals. Unisex collections often feature staple items like organic cotton t-shirts, recycled fabric hoodies, and durable denim. The growing preference for functional, timelessly beautiful pieces across all demographics increases the appeal of this segment.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Online
• Offline
• Brand Outlets
• Independent Boutiques
• Others

Online leads the market with around 56.4% of the market share in 2024 driven by the convenience, access, and reach it affords customers all over the world. By e-commerce sites or directly owned brand websites, a sustainable fashion brand can directly expose its collection to the global population without being hindered by traditional physical retail constraints. Digital marketing, social media, and influencer collaborations are raising consumers' awareness of sustainability and their knowledge of the benefits provided to them through eco-friendly garments. In addition to this, incorporating digital technologies like virtual try-on functionalities and highly detailed product tracing aids further enhances the purchase online experience. In addition to this, the rising smartphone penetration and the growing preference for hassle-free, transparent purchasing have further fueled the shift to online channels. This distribution method not only supports market growth but also aligns with sustainable values by reducing the environmental impact of traditional retail operations.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East
• Africa

In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share of over 37.5%, as the consumers in this region have been increasingly aware of the benefits of environmentally friendly products. The strong emphasis on sustainability by most of the big brands and favorable regulatory actions support the market growth in the region. For example, on October 3, 2024, California passed the Responsible Textile Recovery Act, the first U.S. law holding apparel producers accountable for recycling, repairing, and managing textile waste. The legislation mandates forming producer responsibility organizations to implement recycling and repair programs by 2030. It aims to reduce textile waste while promoting environmental sustainability and circularity. Also, inflating disposable incomes and a trend toward conscious consumerism results in greater adoption of sustainable apparel. Besides this, North America houses a vast array of innovative start-ups and multinationals that are committed to the utilization of organic and recycled resources, which is providing an impetus to the market. The rise of online shopping and social media campaigns further amplified the reach of sustainable fashion brands in the region, thereby driving innovation and shaping global trends within the sustainable fashion industry.

Key Regional Takeaways:
 

United States Sustainable Fashion Market Analysis

In 2024, the United States accounted for 88.60% of the North America sustainable fashion market, due to its influences on both consumer behavior and industry innovation. American consumers are increasingly demanding fashion products that are not only eco-friendly but also ethically produced and socially responsible as awareness around environmental and ethical concerns rises. The heightened need brought numerous top fashion brands into sustainability with organic materials, low wastage, and more supply chain transparency. Eco-friendly influencer marketing and emerging startup forays have also developed sustainability in fashion, driving mass brands towards the need for sustainability in fashion. The presence of organizations and initiatives promoting sustainability in the U.S. further augment market growth. For instance, on June 5, 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar announced the launch of the "Metamorphose" sustainable fashion project. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the environmental impact of the fashion industry and support women's entrepreneurship in fashion design. The project aims to empower women and men in fashion, promoting sustainable practices and economic empowerment. With the middle-class population being committed to innovation and sustainability, the United States remains an important region in the global market.

Asia Pacific Sustainable Fashion Market Analysis

Asia Pacific is a major region in the global market due to an increasingly large consumer base and rapidly growing interest in sustainability. Countries such as China, India, and Japan are witnessing a consumer shift towards eco-friendly products, particularly among younger generations who are generally more aware of environmental concerns. The region is a major hub for textile manufacturing, and many local brands and global companies are partnering to enhance sustainable production practices. For example, Asia Pacific Rayon (APR) partnered with Duniatex and Matahari on October 24, 2024, during Jakarta Fashion Week 2025 to promote sustainable fashion. The collaboration presented 48 upcycled collections with APR's renewable viscose-rayon fibers and sustainable practices by Duniatex, creatively transformed by Matahari's youth-focused retail brands, Nevada and ZES. This partnership shows attention to sustainable materials and focuses on raising awareness about eco-friendly fashion while developing the Indonesian textile industry. Governments and non-governmental organizations of the Asia Pacific region implement policies to encourage sustainable practices, further accelerating market growth. Technological advancements emerged in countries like South Korea and Taiwan, which are contributing to innovations in textile recycling and sustainable dyeing processes. The region continues to add dimension to the sustainable fashion market as it balances rapid economic expansion with environmental considerations.

Europe Sustainable Fashion Market Analysis

Europe is a prominent region in the market, known for its regulatory developments and consumer demand for eco-friendly products. The European Union has incorporated policies and initiatives to reduce textile waste and carbon emissions. The stringent regulatory framework and the increasing awareness among consumers have led to increased investments in sustainable innovations such as the use of plant-based fabrics, biodegradable materials, and closed-loop recycling systems. In Europe, various eco-friendly fashion events take place that focus on sustainability, such as Fashion Week in Paris and Milan. With established brands and a vibrant startup focusing on sustainable practices, Europe remains an important market in promoting sustainable fashion trends across the world. For example, on October 22, 2024, Decathlon announced a collaboration through its investment arm, Decathlon Pulse, with Unspun to bring 3D weaving technology to Europe. This collaboration will involve minimizing waste in apparel production and promoting the idea of sustainable, local, low-inventory production. Decathlon Pulse will support the deployment of unspun's Vega technology, which allows for more sustainable, carbon-neutral fashion industries through custom, recyclable garments.

Latin America Sustainable Fashion Market Analysis

Latin America is a significant region in the market with its strong emphasis on the adoption of materials sourced locally, combined with artisanal production techniques. Latin America offers plenty of eco-friendly resources such as organic cotton, hemp, and alternative leather. Latin American countries, such as Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia, are using cultural heritage and traditional techniques to create eco-friendly fashion products that promote sustainability and social empowerment. Ethical labor practices and community-driven production are attracting consumers who appreciate sustainability. The growing middle class population is also propelling demand for environmentally conscious fashion choices, mainly in urban areas. Green initiatives and awareness programs regarding environmental impact by governments and NGOs are contributing to the market growth in the region. Latin America's infusion of creativity, culture, and sustainability is further fueling the region's growth in the market. For example, on October 12, 2024, Latin America's sustainable fashion initiative, Universo MOLA, held a pop-up event at DOORS NYC in SoHo. It featured collections made from environmentally friendly and ecologically sustainable materials and brought to light the creativity and innovation of visionary Latin American designers focused on sustainability in their collections. It would help gain global attention toward Latin American sustainable fashion as well as promote responsible design in the global fashion industry.

Middle East and Africa Sustainable Fashion Market Analysis

The Middle East and Africa region is poised for rapid growth, driven by the growing awareness of environmental issues and responsible consumption. Countries in the Middle East, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, are experiencing a rise in luxury and high-end fashion brands that are taking up sustainability due to consumer demand and governmental initiatives to reduce carbon footprints. The more affluent populations in this area are concerned about the environment and ethics behind fashion products, therefore shifting their options to more sustainable goods. In Africa, fashion relates to traditions and indigenous culture, which led to people choosing local products to boost economic empowerment. Major fashion cities in the region, such as South Africa and Kenya, have promoted ethical production. Regional organizations are working together to support sustainable practice. For instance, On September 2, 2024, South African Fashion Week (SAFW) announced its commitment to a five-year plan to promote sustainable fashion. The initiative focuses on fostering collaboration with local designers to implement circular economy practices and reduce environmental impact. SAFW will integrate sustainable fashion criteria, such as using eco-friendly fabrics and zero-waste techniques and collaborating with like-minded organizations to encourage ethical practices within the fashion industry.

Competitive Landscape:

The global market competitive landscape is influenced by the adaptation of established players to sustainability trends and emerging brands that focus on ethical and sustainable products. Companies are using innovative materials, circular production processes, and transparent supply chains to stand out in the market. Technological advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI) for efficient inventory management and blockchain for traceability further fuel market competition. The major concern in the market is to balance cost efficiency and sustainability objectives. Global companies are seeking strategic partnerships with NGO alliances and sustainable certification. For example, on May 27, 2024, SU.RE, a sustainability initiative by Reliance Brands, UN India, and others, partnered with the British Council to promote sustainable practices in India's apparel sector. The collaboration includes mentorship, actionable plans, and addressing challenges, with phases such as a UK study tour and a leadership roundtable at the Global Fashion Summit in Copenhagen. This effort aims to guide signatories toward sustainable practices and foster international collaboration, advancing the transformation of India's fashion industry toward a more sustainable future. The market is now open to innovation as the players compete for leadership both on the environmental impact and on consumer expectations. 

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the global sustainable fashion market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Adidas AG
• Burberry Limited
• Gap Inc.
• H&M
• Lululemon Athletica
• Nike Inc.
• Prada
• PUMA SE
• Ralph Lauren Corporation
• Under Armour Inc
• UNIQLO Co., Ltd.
• VF Corporation

Latest News and Developments:

• September 11, 2024: PYRATEX and Recover announced a partnership to develop high-quality, sustainable fabrics using recycled cotton. The collaboration combines Recover's advanced recycling technology and PYRATEX's expertise in fabric production to create luxury textiles blended with organic cotton. This initiative aims to set a new standard for sustainable fashion by providing high-end, low-impact materials to designers and brands, promoting ethical sourcing and production practices.
• October 25, 2024: Dentsu announced the launch of Japan's first "Digital Fashion Program" in collaboration with Bunka Fashion College, utilizing Roblox as a platform. The program aims to cultivate future digital fashion designers by teaching students how to create and distribute digital fashion within the Roblox environment. This initiative, officially supported by Roblox, highlights the increasing demand for creators skilled in digital fashion, which is especially appealing to Gen Z's interest in sustainability and virtual self-expression.

Sustainable Fashion Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the global sustainable fashion market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global sustainable fashion market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the global sustainable fashion industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.