The UK sustainable fashion market size reached USD 261.04 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 1,757.42 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 23.60% during 2025-2033. The market is primarily driven by rising demand from consumers for ethical products, the higher uptake of zero-waste and circular fashion efforts, and rapid development in sustainable production technologies that emphasize the use of eco-friendly materials and recycling techniques to satisfy environmental standards.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the regional level for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product type, fabric type, distribution channel and end user.

As of 2024, Millennials and Generation X made up the biggest share of sustainable apparel consumers in the UK. They each accounted for just under ********* of the market. More information on this topic can be found in the Statista report on the generational gap in sustainable consumption.

Millennials and Generation Z were forecast to be tied as the generations with the largest share of the sustainable apparel market in the United Kingdom in 2022. They each made up just over ********** of the market.More information on this topic can be found in the Statista report on the generational gap in sustainable consumption.

In a 2022 survey, one quarter of fashion shoppers in the United Kingdom strongly agreed that they would like the fashion industry to become more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Even more consumers somewhat agreed with the statement.

In a recent survey conducted in the United Kingdom (UK), around one-fifth of consumers stated that they bought clothes from sustainable brands. When asked if they agreed with the statement "I only buy clothes from sustainable brands", a combined 50 percent of those surveyed tended to disagree.

In a 2022 survey, almost half of fashion shoppers in the United Kingdom agreed that the fashion industry was not doing enough to become sustainable and environmentally friendly. Over one ***** of respondents did not have a strong opinion on the issue.

Online women's clothing retailers revenue is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 5.2% over the five years through 2024-25. The industry has mainly boomed thanks to the dramatic increase in photos and videos posted online, fast, affordable fashion and the introduction of credit and financing services like buy-now-pay-later platforms that have allowed consumers to manage household budgets better. Influencers, shopping hauls, and discount codes make buying clothes irresistible. Despite the positive momentum, fast fashion comes at a cost and growing awareness surrounding sustainability issues and ethical allegations, which weigh on growth. This has spurred a shift towards sustainable fashion, with shoppers increasingly opting for quality, second-hand items, or rental platforms like Hurr. Retailers, such as Boohoo, are also pledging to reduce emissions and waste by 2030. The luxury e-commerce boom is waning as interest rates remain high and shoppers return to physical stores. Retailers have also contended with tightening disposable incomes forcing consumers to rethink if they should hit 'add-to-cart' or return items entirely. As the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has decreased from its peak, suggesting a reduction in inflationary pressures for 2024-25, consumers are likely to feel more confident about their spending, revenue is expected to hike 4.3% to £13.2 billion, while the average profit margin is set to reach 6.5%. The sustainability trend will continue to gain momentum. Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of waste, choosing to upcycle and repair products instead of buying new ones, and these trends will accelerate. Gen Z will enter the workforce, becoming a significant source of spending power and bringing new values to the market. However, with increased scrutiny on environmental claims, brands must tread carefully to avoid greenwashing. Authentic storytelling, resale sections, and partnerships will be key in attracting the next generation of socially conscious consumers. Those that fail to adapt to consumer trends by emphasising sustainability and ethical sources risk not benefitting from a potentially lucrative market. Revenue in the Online Women's Clothing Retailing industry is slated to grow at a compound annual rate of 2.5% to £15 billion over the five years through 2029-30.

According to a recent consumer survey conducted in the United Kingdom (UK) on sustainable fashion purchase behavior, British men preferred shopping with sustainable fashion brands more than women did, with 53 percent versus 47 percent, respectively. The survey results revealed that male respondents from the age groups 25-34 and 35-44 were more likely to only buy clothes from sustainable brands compared to respondents in the other age groups and gender. Among women polled for this survey, those aged 35-44 and over 55 showed higher preference for sustainable fashion brands.

In the fashion industry, ethical consumption has been a much-discussed topic recently. In February 2019, the UK Parliament released a report on ethical consuption and sustainability in fashion, urging retailers to take into consideration the ethical and social cost of clothing items.

Ethical companies in fashion

According to the rating table compiled by Ethical Company Organization, the leading three retailers to score the highest ethical score in the United Kingdom were People Tree, Finisterre, and the School Uniform Shop. As displayed in this statistic, while fair trade brand People Tree topped the list with its ethical company score, fast-fashion retailers such as ASOS received a score of 67. This score was slightly below the benchmark score for ethical performance in the apparel category.

Consumer interest in ethical fashion

In the meantime, the ethical clothing market is expanding in the UK, which is good news indicating an increase of consumer interest in buying from ethical brands. According to the results of a 2020 survey, about one-fifth of UK consumers said they cared about the environmental impact of the clothing items before they buy them. This share was considerably higher in other European countries, particularly in Spain where almost a quarter of the interviewed consumers said the environmental impact of clothing items was something they thought of a great deal.

Over the five years through 2024-25, revenue in the fast-fashion industry is expected to creep up at a compound annual rate of 1.5%, reaching £10.9 billion. This includes a 2.1% rise over 2024-25, where profit is anticipated to reach 5.6%. Fast fashion remains in high demand, having benefitted hugely from the growth of social media. Photos and videos constantly drive sales posted online, with people wanting to look their best and seek out the latest trendy clothes and accessories. Disposable income levels, fashion and styling trends and environmental awareness levels affect demand for fast fashion items. Yet, the fast-fashion industry faces mounting criticism for its environmental impact, as it ranks as the second-largest water consumer and emits around 10% of global carbon emissions. With 92 million tons of textile waste produced annually, green concerns are gaining prominence. In March 2024, a landmark investigation by the FCA targeted greenwashing in fast-fashion brands, urging them to avoid misleading claims about sustainability. Rampant inflation pushed up competition from upcycling and thrifting. Platforms like Vinted offer convenient avenues for selling unwanted clothes, fuelled by a desire to cut costs amid tight finances. The race among retailers, including newcomers like Shein and Temu, intensifies, prompting strategies like nearshoring to respond faster to consumer trends. At the same time, geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions drive sourcing closer to home, reducing lead times, but inflating costs in the short-term. Revenue is slated to climb at a compound annual rate of 2.6% over the five years through 2029-30 to £12.4 billion. The sustainability trend will continue to gain momentum, with UK shoppers becoming increasingly conscious of waste, choosing to upcycle and repair products instead of buying new ones. Fast fashion retailers that fail to adapt by emphasising their sustainability efforts and ethical sourcing risk losing out in a fast-growing market. Data-driven strategies are revolutionising retail operations and are more critical than ever in helping retailers improve the supply chain, increase personalised customer experiences and enhance business practices. Gen Z takes over, bringing new values and markets and social media will continue to drive purchases.

Base Year 2023 Forecast Period 2024-2028 Market Growth X.XX%*

This statistic displays ethical clothing sales revenue in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2014 to 2020. Revenue from the sales of ethical clothing rose from ** million British pounds in 2015, reaching ** million pounds in 2020.

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Sustainable Fabrics Market Size 2025-2029

The sustainable fabrics market size is forecast to increase by USD 28.9 billion, at a CAGR of 8.6% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by the surging demand for eco-friendly textiles, particularly in medical textiles, where the use of sustainable fabrics is crucial for patient safety and environmental consciousness. This trend is fueled by the increasing awareness of the negative impact of conventional textiles on the environment and human health. However, the high costs associated with sustainable fabrics pose a significant challenge for market growth. These fabrics, often made from biodegradable and natural fibers, require substantial resources and energy to produce, resulting in higher production costs.
Companies seeking to capitalize on this market must navigate these cost challenges through innovative production methods and strategic partnerships. Additionally, collaboration with stakeholders across the value chain, from raw material suppliers to retailers, can help reduce costs and improve sustainability. Overall, the market presents a compelling opportunity for businesses committed to creating eco-friendly textiles that meet the growing demand for sustainable solutions.

What will be the Size of the Sustainable Fabrics Market during the forecast period?

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The market continues to evolve, driven by increasing consumer awareness and demand for eco-friendly textiles. Fabric certification schemes, such as GOTS and Oeko-Tex, ensure ethical sourcing and production processes. Energy efficiency is a key focus, with innovations in dyeing processes and finishing treatments reducing water footprints. Vegan leather and plant-based fibers are gaining popularity, while technical textiles, including performance fabrics and medical textiles, offer solutions for various sectors. Upcycled materials and closed-loop systems are integral to the circular economy, reducing textile waste. Recycled polyester and mechanical recycling are essential for minimizing carbon footprints. Fiber modification, including antimicrobial properties and moisture wicking, enhances fabric performance.

Industrial textiles, automotive textiles, and home furnishings all benefit from these sustainable advancements. The market's ongoing dynamism is reflected in the development of new applications, such as smart fabrics and flame retardant fabrics, as well as advancements in textile waste management and water conservation. The integration of ethical sourcing, recycled materials, and sustainable production methods continues to shape the market.

How is this Sustainable Fabrics Industry segmented?

The sustainable fabrics industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Manmade/regenerated
  Natural
  Organic
  Recycled


Application

  Textiles/apparel
  Household and furnishing
  Medical
  Others


Distribution Channel

  Indirect channel
  Direct channel


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The manmade/regenerated segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The textile industry is evolving to address environmental concerns, with a focus on sustainable fabrics. Recycled nylon, derived from post-consumer waste, is gaining popularity for its reduced carbon footprint. Supply chain transparency is essential, and companies are disclosing their sourcing practices to ensure ethical and sustainable production. Bio-based materials, such as regenerated fibers from plant cellulose, offer softness and infinite recyclability. Dyeing processes are being optimized for water conservation, while antimicrobial properties are integrated to reduce chemical use. Technical textiles, including flame retardant fabrics, are being manufactured with closed-loop systems to minimize waste. Plant-based fibers, like organic cotton, are certified under fair trade and energy-efficient production methods.

Performance fabrics, such as vegan leather and upcycled materials, are being used in home furnishings, automotive textiles, and medical textiles. Fiber modification and chemical recycling are key to reducing the industry's water footprint and carbon emissions. Smart fabrics with moisture wicking and UV protection are also in demand, as are industrial textiles for their durability and quality control. The circular economy is driving innovation in textile manufacturing, with a focus on product lifecycle as

Fast Fashion Market size was valued at USD 122,257.5 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 283,457.5 Million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 10.13% from 2026 to 2032.

Fast Fashion Market Drivers

Affordability: Fast fashion offers affordable clothing options, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers. Trend-Driven: Fast fashion brands quickly replicate runway trends, allowing consumers to stay up-to-date with the latest styles. Variety and Choice: Fast fashion retailers offer a wide range of styles, sizes, and colors, providing consumers with ample choices. Accessibility: Fast fashion brands have a strong presence in retail stores and online platforms, making it convenient for consumers to shop.

Fast Fashion Market Restraints

Ethical Concerns: The fast fashion industry has faced criticism for its environmental impact, labor practices, and waste generation. Quality Concerns: Fast fashion clothing is often made from low-quality materials and may not be durable.

UK retail market is leading the way in industry innovation, whether it's high-end retail, sustainable fashion, mobile retailing, or tech capabilities.

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Fast Fashion Market Size 2025-2029

The fast fashion market size is forecast to increase by USD 79.2 billion, at a CAGR of 11% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven primarily by the increasing demand from burgeoning youth populations worldwide. This demographic seeks affordable, trendy clothing, making fast fashion an attractive option. Another key trend shaping the market is the rise in social media marketing. Brands are leveraging social media platforms to reach wider audiences and engage with customers, driving sales and brand loyalty. However, the market faces challenges as well. The availability of counterfeit fast fashion products poses a significant threat, as consumers are often unable to distinguish between authentic and fake items. This not only harms brand reputation but also undermines the industry's ethical standards.
Companies must invest in robust brand protection strategies to mitigate this risk and maintain consumer trust. In summary, the market is characterized by strong demand, innovative marketing strategies, and challenges related to counterfeit products. Companies seeking to capitalize on opportunities and navigate challenges effectively must stay agile, focus on brand protection, and maintain transparency with consumers.

What will be the Size of the Fast Fashion Market during the forecast period?

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The market continues to evolve, shaped by dynamic market dynamics and various sectoral applications. Omnichannel retailing and quality control are key focus areas, with data analytics playing a pivotal role in supply chain management and trend forecasting. Water consumption is a significant concern, leading to sustainability initiatives and resource efficiency. Promotional campaigns, sewing technology, and impulse buying drive sales, while dyeing and finishing techniques and printing methods add value. Retail partnerships and market penetration strategies expand reach, and supply chain disruptions necessitate effective logistics and distribution. Ethical sourcing and textile waste management are crucial components of the circular economy. Brands employ various pricing strategies, from online advertising to e-commerce platforms, to attract and retain customer loyalty.

Intellectual property protection and brand reputation management are essential in the face of counterfeit goods and labor practices scrutiny. The fast fashion landscape is ever-changing, with design trends and fabric technology shaping the industry's future.

How is this Fast Fashion Industry segmented?

The fast fashion industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Gender

  Female
  Male


Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Product Type

  Apparel
  Footwear
  Accessories


Consumer Demographics

  Adults
  Teen
  Kids


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Gender Insights

The female segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

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The Female segment was valued at USD 53.30 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 53% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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In the dynamic North American market, the fast fashion sector continues to expand, fueled by a growing population, increasing disposable income, and shifting consumer preferences. The US and Canada remain key players, attracting numerous international companies with affordable offerings. Working women, in particular, are driving demand for trendy apparel. companies are catering to local tastes through customization and innovation. The market is fragmented, with significant growth anticipated in the US and Canada due to their expanding populations. Pattern making and garment construction are crucial aspects of fast fashion production, ensuring efficiency and quick turnaround times. Digital marketing and influencer partnerships have become essential strategies for reaching consumers and promoting brands.

Sustainability initiatives, such as recycling programs and water conservation efforts, are gaining traction, addressing concerns around the industry's environmental imp

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Secondhand Apparel Market Size 2025-2029

The secondhand apparel market size is forecast to increase by USD 212.1 billion, at a CAGR of 14.9% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is witnessing significant growth, driven by the increasing trend towards sustainability and ethical practices. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of the fashion industry and are turning to used clothing as an alternative. The rise of resale platforms for used clothes has made it easier than ever before to access high-quality, affordable secondhand apparel. However, this market is not without challenges. Complexities in the supply chain, such as authenticity verification and logistics, pose significant obstacles for players in the secondhand apparel industry.
Companies must navigate these challenges effectively to capitalize on the market's potential and meet the growing demand for sustainable and ethical fashion solutions. By focusing on innovative technologies and strategic partnerships, businesses can overcome these challenges and thrive in the dynamic the market.

What will be the Size of the Secondhand Apparel Market during the forecast period?

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The market continues to evolve, driven by shifting consumer preferences and advancements in retail technology. Online resale platforms have gained significant traction, enabling consumers to buy and sell pre-owned clothing with ease. Authenticity verification and inventory tracking systems ensure the authenticity and availability of items, while carbon footprint concerns fuel textile recycling and clothing recycling initiatives. Vintage apparel and consignment shops cater to niche customer segments, with customer segmentation strategies helping retailers target specific demographics. Pricing strategies and marketing channels adapt to the dynamic market, with data analytics and social media engagement playing crucial roles.

The supply chain becomes more transparent, with a focus on ethical sourcing and sustainable fashion. Customer service and consumer behavior are key differentiators, as retailers strive to provide personalized experiences and address the growing demand for pre-owned apparel. Thrift stores and product descriptions cater to the increasing interest in sustainable fashion, with water consumption and environmental impact becoming key concerns. Inventory management and clothing repair help extend the life cycle of garments, aligning with the circular economy. The apparel industry continues to adapt, with energy consumption, brand protection, and fair trade becoming essential aspects of the business model.

Brand building and influencer marketing strategies help retailers build customer loyalty and counteract the impact of fast fashion. Community building and social media engagement foster a sense of belonging and authenticity, while demand planning and product photography help retailers effectively showcase their offerings. The market's continuous dynamism is further reflected in the emergence of new trends, such as clothing alterations, dry cleaning services, and returns management systems. Retailers must remain agile and adapt to these evolving patterns to stay competitive and meet the changing needs of their customers.

How is this Secondhand Apparel Industry segmented?

The secondhand apparel industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

End-user

  Women
  Men
  Kids


Type

  TTSD
  Resale


Product Types

  Casual Wear
  Formal Wear
  Sportswear
  Vintage Clothing


Price

  Low-End
  Mid-Range
  Premium


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By End-user Insights

The women segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Women's shopping preferences have significantly influenced the market's growth. The trend toward sustainable fashion and circular economy models has driven an increasing number of women to purchase pre-owned clothing. Factors such as environmental consciousness, unique fashion statements, and cost-effectiveness are fueling this trend. Online resale platforms and consignment shops offer a vast selection of secondhand apparel, catering to women's desire for both style and eco-friendly options. The acceptance and normalization of secondhand clothing within the fashion industry have solidified the significant role of women in this market. This shift positively impacts the market's trajectory, promoting a more sustainable appro

The global revenue share in the 'Sustainable' segment of the apparel market was forecast to continuously increase between 2024 and 2026 by in total one percentage point. After the thirteenth consecutive increasing year, the revenue share is estimated to reach 6.14 percent and therefore a new peak in 2026. Notably, the revenue share of the 'Sustainable' segment of the apparel market was continuously increasing over the past years.Find more in-depth information regarding the revenue concerning the men's apparel segment of the apparel market in Thailand and the average price per unit (PPU) concerning the apparel market in the United Kingdom. The Statista Market Insights cover a broad range of additional markets.

Over the five years through 2024-25, clothing and footwear wholesalers’ revenue is expected to decline at a compound annual rate of 2%. They’ve come up against enormous challenges recently, with the cost-of-living crisis leading consumers to cut their spending on clothes and footwear, pushing down revenue. Wholesalers have historically been the middlemen of fashion, forming an essential link between retailers and the companies that make clothes. However, retailers are increasingly building relationships with manufacturers to avoid paying commissions to wholesalers and to have more influence in the design and production process. That being said, shifts in consumer behaviour, like women no longer opting to buy footwear from specialist retailers, have opened up the market, allowing wholesalers to establish a foothold in specific product and market segments. The emergence of the fashion-conscious male market has also supported revenue. Revenue is slated to inch upwards by 0.9% in 2024-25 to £14.9 billion. The high street has seen a sustained decline in footfall over the past decade, which played a big part in the collapse of prominent retailers like Topshop and Debenhams, cutting demand for wholesalers. Weak disposable incomes and subdued confidence have also limited retail sales. Wholesalers have sought other ways to bolster their finances in the face of weakening demand. For example, the growing success of the direct-to-consumer model enables wholesalers to take their products directly to consumers and make a higher profit, though this does come with higher marketing and technology spending. Revenue is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 3.3% over the five years through 2029-30 to £17.5 billion, propped up by improving economic conditions – specifically, inflation is set to subside, boosting consumer spending power. Ethical consumerism is pushing clothing wholesalers towards sustainable practices, with many UK consumers ready to change their buying habits based on brands' environmental impact. This shift could increase costs, leading wholesalers to explore vertical integration with manufacturers and invest more in technology like automation to boost efficiency. Trends such as anticipatory shipping and automated systems are set to become more prominent, allowing wholesalers to better manage supply and demand while addressing rising wage concerns. Wholesalers will be pressured to make their operations more sustainable, creating opportunities for localised production.

The European jeans market, valued at approximately €X billion in 2025 (assuming a logical estimation based on the provided 6.20% CAGR and a missing market size), exhibits robust growth potential, projected to reach €Y billion by 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. Firstly, the increasing popularity of sustainable and ethically sourced denim, aligning with growing consumer consciousness regarding environmental and social responsibility, fuels demand for premium and eco-friendly jeans. Secondly, evolving fashion trends, including the resurgence of classic styles alongside innovative designs, cater to diverse consumer preferences across age groups and genders. Furthermore, the rise of e-commerce platforms has significantly broadened distribution channels, enhancing accessibility and convenience for consumers, particularly within the younger demographic. Strong brand loyalty to established players like Levi Strauss & Co. and H&M Group, coupled with the emergence of niche brands focusing on unique designs and craftsmanship, ensures market dynamism. However, the market faces certain challenges. Fluctuations in raw material costs, primarily cotton, impact production expenses and pricing strategies. Furthermore, increasing competition from fast-fashion retailers offering cheaper alternatives necessitates strategic pricing and marketing approaches to maintain market share. The varying economic conditions across European nations also influence consumer spending habits, impacting demand fluctuations within specific regional markets. Nevertheless, the overall outlook for the European jeans market remains positive, driven by the enduring appeal of denim, evolving consumer preferences, and continuous innovation within the industry. Successful players will strategically navigate sustainability concerns, leverage online channels effectively, and adapt to ever-changing fashion trends. The market segmentation by end-user (men, women, children), category (mass, premium), and distribution channel (supermarket/hypermarket, specialty stores, online retail stores) offers valuable opportunities for targeted marketing and product development. Recent developments include: In March 2022, Gap Inc. opened First Shop-In-Shop on oxford street, United Kingdom through joint venture agreement with NEXT Plc.The Gap store, which has over 4,000 square feet of retail space and is the largest brand shop inside the store, represents the brand's reimagined approach to retail in the UK with an open, modern, and basic design., In March 2022, M&S unveiled its first capsule collection as part of The Jeans Redesign project. The new range has been responsibly sourced to meet the project's guidelines set out by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and co-developed with over 80 denim experts., In February 2021, H&M Group brand Weekday launched a new jeans collection made with reborn textile waste. Weekday created a limited-edition version of their popular Rowe Jeans in partnership with Infinited Fiber Company utilizing 100% post-consumer waste to create a fully recyclable, breathable cotton-like fabric.. Notable trends are: The Shifting Consumer Preference for Innovative Jeans Products.