Active and sportswear trends for 2023 are heavily influenced by the rise of “Athleisure,” a trend that blurs the lines between traditional gym clothing and casual wear. As a result, athletic apparel companies are offering more options that allow wearers to transition easily between leisure and exercise. Yoga culture is also on the rise, with fashion searches for yoga clothing growing in 2020 and sales of yoga-related products rising by 42%.
Customers are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious, demanding more transparency about how their clothing is produced and following sustainable clothing trends. Athletic wear companies are using more recycled polyester and low-impact, non-toxic dyes, and are also committing to fair labour practices and working conditions.
The 90s are making a comeback in the athletic wear industry, with a nostalgic appeal for the millennial market. One-piece activewear, such as bodysuits and leotards, has also seen a rise in popularity. In addition, there is a trend towards size inclusivity, with more apparel brands abandoning labels such as plus-size and petite.
Advances in clothing production technology are allowing for more customization and smart clothing options. Brands such as Nike and Lululemon are leading the way in this field. The athletic wear industry is also seeing increased interest from Chinese consumers, with sales of athletic wear growing faster than luxury goods over the last five years.
Finally, streetwear apparel styles are becoming more popular, with more brands making unisex clothing in colour and style. Men are increasingly wearing leggings and bicycle shorts, and women are wearing jogging pants instead of leggings. Overall, the active and sportswear trends for 2023 are focused on sustainability, inclusivity, and the integration of fashion and function.
The athletic apparel industry is continuously evolving, with new trends emerging every year. The growth of the athleisure trend has led to a blurring of the lines between traditional gym clothing and casual wear. The rise of yoga culture and the increased demand for sustainably sourced apparel are just a few examples of how the industry is changing to meet the needs of customers. Additionally, the increased interest in fair labour practices and the 90s influence on athletic apparel are also shaping the industry.
As the industry continues to grow, it’s essential that companies pay attention to the needs and wants of their customers. For example, the push for more size inclusivity and the rise of one-piece activewear are both indications that customers are looking for clothing that fits their individual needs. Furthermore, the use of technology for personalization and smart clothing is a trend that is expected to continue to grow in the future.
In my opinion, the athletic apparel industry is on the right track by paying attention to the changing needs of customers. As a society, we are becoming increasingly conscious of the impact our actions have on the environment and on other people. The industry’s response to these concerns, such as the increased use of sustainable materials and fair labour practices, is commendable. Additionally, the incorporation of technology for personalization and smart clothing is a trend that I believe will continue to grow in the future. Overall, the athletic apparel industry is poised for continued growth in 2023 and beyond.
