Decorated Apparel Market by Product (Embroidery, Screen Printing, Dye Sublimation, Digital Printing, and Others), End User (Men, Women, and Children), Distribution Channel (Online and Offline), and Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA): Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

Decorated Apparel Overview

Decorated apparel refers to customized clothing items embellished with various decorative elements, such as logos, designs, patterns, or text. These customizations are achieved through multiple techniques, including screen printing, embroidery, heat transfers, and sublimation. Screen printing involves using screens and ink to transfer designs onto garments. At the same time, embroidery utilizes specialized machines to stitch intricate patterns directly onto the fabric. Heat transfers and sublimation use heat and pressure to apply designs onto the apparel, making them ideal for complex and vibrant prints. Decorated apparel finds wide application in promotional items, corporate uniforms, sports team wear, event merchandise, and fashion, providing individuals and organizations with a means to express creativity and showcase their brand through personalized clothing items.

Global Decorated Apparel Market Analysis

The global decorated apparel market size was $25.89 billion in 2022 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 10.1%, by generating a revenue of $63.76 billion by 2032.

COVID-19 Impact on Global Decorated Apparel Market

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an adverse impact on the decorated apparel market. With global supply chain disruptions due to lockdowns and restrictions, manufacturing and shipping apparel items were delayed. Decreased consumer spending on non-essential goods, including apparel, occurred as economic downturns and job losses affected people's budgets. The demand for certain types of decorated apparel shifted during the pandemic, with increased interest in comfortable and casual wear. In contrast, formal and event-specific apparel demand declined. E-commerce experienced a boom as physical retail stores closed or operated with restrictions, leading to a surge in online sales of decorated apparel. The need for custom orders, often used for promotional purposes and events, decreased as offices closed and businesses struggled. However, health and safety considerations increased demand for face masks and other protective gear, prompting some apparel businesses to diversify their offerings. Small businesses in the decorated apparel market faced challenges, with some closing permanently. The industry continues to adapt as the world recovers from the pandemic and consumer behavior adjusts to the new normal.

Growing Fashion Trends to Drive the Market Growth

The decorated apparel market is driven by various factors influencing consumer preferences and demand. Fashion trends play a significant role, with consumers seeking unique and personalized products. Customization services, such as adding names, logos, or artwork to garments, attract more customers. Corporate and promotional merchandise also contribute to the market, as businesses often order custom apparel for branding purposes. Sports and team apparel also play a crucial role, with fans and athletes purchasing clothing featuring team logos and graphics. Large-scale events and e-commerce platforms further expand the market reach. Technological advancements, such as improved printing technologies, have boosted production efficiency and design quality. Moreover, the growing awareness of sustainability and eco-friendly options drives the demand for environmentally conscious decorated apparel.

Economic Downturns to Restrain the Market Growth  

The decorated apparel market can face several restraining factors. Economic downturns and unstable conditions can reduce consumer spending on non-essential items like decorated apparel. Changing fashion trends can also impact market growth, as consumers may shift their preferences, leading to decreased demand for specific styles or designs. Additionally, seasonal variations can influence demand, with certain types of apparel being more popular during particular times of the year. The high level of competition in the industry can result in cost wars and diminished profit margins for businesses. Fluctuations in the cost of raw materials and supply chain disruptions can challenge timely production and delivery, thereby restricting the growth of the market.

E-commerce and Online Sales to Drive Excellent Opportunities

Increasing e-commerce and online sales are predicted to create massive growth opportunities for the global decorated apparel market. E-commerce has transformed the retail landscape, including the decorated apparel market. Decorated apparel businesses can leverage online platforms to reach a wider audience, expand their customer base, and increase sales. The rising demand for customization and personalization in clothing offered decorated apparel businesses a chance to provide customers with unique designs and personalized options. Moreover, the growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices allowed decorated apparel companies to offer environmentally conscious clothing options. Collaborations with famous brands, artists, or influencers opened doors to new markets and increased visibility. Exploring international markets and diversifying the product range is further predicted to expand the decorated apparel market.

Global Decorated Apparel Market Share, by Product, 2022

The embroidery sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. Embroidery has dominated the decorated apparel market for several compelling reasons. With its long-standing heritage and tradition spanning across cultures, embroidery holds a timeless appeal for consumers. Its versatility allows it to adorn various apparel items, from casual to formal attire. The perception of higher value and quality, owing to its three-dimensional texture and durability, attracts customers seeking premium apparel. Moreover, embroidery's customization capabilities have made it popular for personalized garments featuring logos, names, or custom designs. Businesses and organizations also leverage embroidery to convey professionalism and brand identity on employee uniforms. Its lasting durability withstands frequent washing and wear, which is especially appealing for workwear and uniforms.

Global Decorated Apparel Market Share, by End User, 2022

The women sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. The dominance of this sub-segment is mainly due to women’s diverse fashion preferences, and innovation & creativity in their apparels. Their influence is evident in numerous apparel styles and designs catering to various tastes. Many women entrepreneurs have ventured into the industry, starting their own clothing brands and design businesses, shaping the market’s landscape. Additionally, women’s advocacy for inclusivity and representation has resulted in apparel lines that embrace diverse body types, fostering empowerment and body positivity. Leveraging social media, women have effectively marketed their brands and collaborations. At the same time, fashion bloggers and influencers have significantly promoted decorated apparel styles. With women in corporate leadership positions, their vision has guided decision-making in design and marketing strategies. Moreover, women's desire for uniqueness has driven the demand for personalized apparel, leading to businesses offering custom embroidery, printing, and embellishment services.

Global Decorated Apparel Market Share, by Distribution Channel, 2022

The offline sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022.  The offline sub-segment's dominance is attributed to several factors. First, face-to-face interactions allows for a personalized touch, as customers could discuss their design requirements with staff. Additionally, offline stores often offer quick turnaround times, enabling customers to have their custom apparel printed on the spot or within a short period. Furthermore, in-person interactions provide reassurance regarding the quality of the finished product, as customers could inspect materials and print samples. The established reputation of many offline businesses and their ability to handle bulk orders and participate in events and trade shows is contributing to the sub-segment's market growth.

Global Decorated Apparel Market Share, by Region, 2022

The Asia-Pacific decorated apparel market generated the highest revenue in 2022. The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a dominant force in the global market due to several key factors. With its robust and cost-effective manufacturing capabilities, countries like China, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Indonesia are crucial in producing competitively decorated apparel. Moreover, the region's vastly growing middle class population with increasing disposable income creates a substantial consumer base and drives demand for customized and aesthetically appealing apparel. Cultural significance also plays a role, as apparel often reflects rich heritage and traditions, fostering a thriving traditional and decorated clothing market. Adopting e-commerce and digitalization enables a more accessible approach to global markets, benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises. Additionally, the popularity of Asian countries as tourist destinations drives the demand for souvenir items, including decorated apparel.

Competitive Scenario in the Global Decorated Apparel Market

Product development and investment are the common strategies followed by major market players. One of the leading market players in the industry is Lynka. In November 2022, Lynka launched its newest division, PODIOM, which focuses on Print-on-Demand (POD), one of the fastest-growing segments in the imprinted textile market. PODIOM boasts the most extensive on-site inventory of any POD provider in Europe, with more than 1.8 million goods in stock at the exact location as its 10,000 m2 garment decoration unit.

Some of the leading decorated apparel market players are Gildan, Fruit of Loom, Inc., Downtown Custom Printwear, Hanesbrands Inc., Master Printwear, Delta Apparel, Inc., Target Decorated Apparel, Advance Printwear Limited, Lynka, and New England Printwear.