American Consumers & Fashion Preferences: A Deep Dive

American Consumers & Fashion Preferences: A Deep Dive

Trends change from time to time, but some basics remain constant in the world of fashion. As a clothing brand owner, you need to be aware of these basic preferences of consumers if you want your apparel to appeal to American consumers. These basics include what kind of fit and fabric American consumers prefer and the type of fashion that all generations go back to when in need of comfort and style. So, before you consult garment manufacturers, for your advantage in the U.S. apparel market, we’ll be sharing a breakdown of what American consumers prefer in terms of fashion, fit, and fabric.

Fit, Fabric & Fashion Preferences of American Consumers

Stay on top of regional, inclusive-sizing and fit and age-based style preferences with this list where we explain in depth about the U.S. consumer’s fashion preferences and how it will help you grow your apparel business.

1. Fit Preferences

Body diversity and size inclusivity are two essential requirements you need to mention to your clothing manufacturer in Jaipur before making an order. The idea behind it is fairly logical. The U.S. population has a lot of different ethnicities and body shapes. Hence, the consumers in the U.S. increasingly expect size-inclusive options when shopping, from petite and short to tall plus-size options. Various home-grown brands in America have seen success by having all the size-inclusive options available. Since it has already seen success, you can confidently get your next batch of clothing in all sizes and shapes for customer satisfaction and your business’s success. 

Now, fit is not only about size and shape. The world and its people have changed slightly and permanently after the pandemic due to lifestyle changes. As more and more people begin to shift to a work-from-home model, they prefer relaxed and comfortable fit over skinny and fitted clothing. Oversized tees, athleisure, joggers, and stretchable fabrics are always in trend.

Under fit preferences, there is also a growing interest in gender-neutral fits. This is especially amongst the Gen Z consumers who are more interested in purchasing unisex silhouettes. 

2. Fabric Preferences

Fabric preferences change according to the climate of each region in the U.S. Unless you have a brand only catering towards a certain climate style like for summers or winters, you may want to stick to exporting the type of fabric most consumers prefer there. Northern states are colder and favor wool, thermal, and fleece-lined materials in the fall and winter months. Southern states on the other hand favor light-weight, breathable, UV-protective, and moisture-wicking fabrics. 

The number of eco-conscious buyers are increasing every day and if you have eco -friendly clothing brand, congratulations! Because this market is going to become huge soon. Eco-aware shoppers prefer hemp, recycled polyester, and organic cotton. Alongside, having certifications GOTS, Repreve, and OEKO-TEX will help you reach eco-conscious consumers. 

Factors like breathability, softness, and stretchability are high up there in consumer preferences. Fabrics like cotton, modal, and bamboo are highly attractive at stores in the U.S. due to their softness and breathability. Blends with spandex and elastane are preferred in activewear and denims for stretch and recovery.

3. Fashion Preferences 

There are regional style preferences due to climate, urban and rural lifestyles and other factors. The West Coast prefers laid back, street-wear heavy and beachy styles. The East Coast prefers fashion-forward, minimalistic, and polished styles. The Midwest or the Southern states have functional yet conservative classic American style in apparel. 

The American consumer largely prefers casual, versatile and athleisure-inspired clothing. Think – yoga pants, snickers, and hoodies. 

Influence of pop culture is something you should be checking every few months as it changes with time. Have your team check the latest trends on TikTok and Instagram from time to time. Some of the social media trends that are still evergreen in women’s fashion include clean girl aesthetic and cottagecore.