Global Shapewear and Stockings Market Outlook, 2028
Shapewear is an undergarment made of elastic material that is both flexible and rigid, designed to provide support and smooth any bulges. Shapewear fabric is created in a comfortable and unobtrusive way while looking seamless under clothing. Shapewear is perfect for occasional use as it can pull in the stomach and improve posture. Shapewear is commonly used by women to make them slimmer and was originally worn as an undergarment. As for the stockings, they are close-fitting garments covering the leg from below the knee to their toes. They are worn primarily as a fashion item, but sometimes also for medical or therapeutic purposes and foot warmth. The growth of the market is fuelled by factors such as changing lifestyles, increased use of compression wear among the geriatric population, developments in garment designs and fabric technology. Furthermore, the rise in online sales of shapewear, as well as the rising demand for plus-size clothes, has fuelled the growth of the market. The market is also influenced by a variety of cultural factors. When it comes to the body, the concept of perfection is being replaced with the concept of self-love and comfort in one's own shape and size. The market has been influenced by this body-positivity philosophy. Shapewear is not about hiding defects for millennials and Gen-Z shoppers; rather, it is seen as apparel that improves rather than alters one's appearance. As a result, Gen Z-focused manufacturers like Honeylove have gained a wider audience by avoiding the term ""shapewear"" and instead of offering ""sculptwear"" in a variety of sensual styles with flattering elements that women want to flaunt in public.
According to the research report, “Global Shapewear and Stockings Market Outlook, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market is anticipated to reach market size of USD 5.8 Billion, increasing from USD 4.06 Billion in 2022.The market is projected to grow with 6.30% CAGR for 2023-28. The primary factor influencing the market growth is increasing commercial advertisements, movies, and entertainment channels, due to which branded products are considered higher quality. Companies are getting better at connecting with customers by investing in various strategies like marketing campaigns and celebrity endorsements. In addition, research and development teams from various companies have successfully created 'celebrity-inspired' clothing and other products. Most of these companies also have enormous communities, Shapermint, for instance, has over four Million members who are encouraged to share their images using shapewear across various social media platforms. Skims' inclusive strategy, which includes varied ad campaigns and a wide assortment of items in all shapes and colors, has also made it popular with millennials. They have one of the broadest size ranges and a wide selection of skin tones to accommodate people of all ethnicities. Women nowadays expect work-life flexibility intimates that may keep their bodies in tip-top form and make them appear attractive. Many firms are examining this as a customer-centric strategy and expanding their product portfolios to include lighter, firmer, and more practical products for everyday use throughout the year.
Based on the report, the market is segmented into five major regions including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America and Middle East & Africa. Among them, North America is leading the market in 2022 followed by Europe. The North American shapewear and stockings market is expected to remain dominant throughout the forecast period. The market is driven by the presence of several key players, a strong fashion culture, and high levels of disposable income. The European shapewear and stockings market is expected to see strong growth, driven by changing fashion trends across growing economies such as United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy etc. The Asia-Pacific shapewear and stockings market is expected to see the strongest growth in the coming years. The region is driven by a growing middle class, increasing urbanization, and increasing demand for Western-style fashion and lingerie. Further, based on countries, United States is leading the market with over 35% revenue share in 2022. United States is one of the largest and most developed markets in the world. The shapewear market in the US is dominated by a few key players, including Spanx, Maidenform, and HanesBrands. These companies offer a wide range of shapewear products, including bodysuits, waist cinchers, and thigh slimmers, among others. The market is also home to several smaller and boutique brands that offer more specialized products. The stockings market in Germany is also quite developed, with a wide range of products available from both domestic and international brands. The market is dominated by synthetic materials such as nylon, but there is also demand for natural fibers such as cotton and silk.
The global market is expected to witness growth in semi-urban areas of developing economies, owing to rise in awareness for fitness. A global increase in fitness consciousness and growth in participation in sports activities contribute to the market growth. The past decade saw the emergence of shapewear but due to wide-scale innovations in the current decade, the shapewear & stockings market have a promising future. For instance, the new moms tend to demand this on a large scale as the journey of weight loss is a slow process. It is a known fact that shapewear can help in covering approximately 4 inches and can offer ultimate support and comfort. So much so that people can wear shapewear for their normal activities like visiting the gym. An increased shapewear demand is pushing the fashion companies to increase their investment to develop shapewear assortments and also, the new companies are also targeting the production of branded products. Also, shapewear is doing transformation to target the concerns of people wanting these products for body parts like under the breast, thighs, stomach, and lower back amongst others for the target audience across the globe during the forecast period. Based on these factors, shapewear segment is leading the global market in 2022.
Major factors that are expected to boost the growth of the body shaper market in the forecast period are the rise in the beauty-conscious population. Furthermore, the growing of the acceptance of internet and the increase in the penetration of e-commerce is further anticipated to propel the growth of the body shaper market. Moreover, the target population around the world is further estimated to cushion the growth of the body shaper market. On the other hand, the rise in the price of raw materials and the finished products is further projected to impede the growth of the body shaper market in the timeline period. Key manufacturers in the body shaper market, such as PUMA NA, Ann Chery, and Annette International Corporation are prioritizing innovation and new product developments to gain a competitive edge in the landscape. Most companies are currently focusing on waist shapers with medium control. However, companies can also focus on new dimensions, such as organic products, which are trending in the market. Cotton-based body shapers could be a game changer for companies, especially in developed regions. Recent advancements in fabrics incorporated into shapewear have supplemented the growth of this market. Technologies such as bonding and laser cutting have transformed shapewear by eliminating seams, hems, and bulky fastenings. Lycra, neoprene, spandex, and nylon are the commonly used fabrics by the manufacturers. Improved fabrics are softer, more breathable, and possess toning properties.
On the other hand, the increase in number of aging population, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, infrastructure investments, technological advancements, evolving care models, higher labour costs amidst workforce shortages, and the expansion of health care systems in developing markets are some of the key factors that help drive the overall growth of the market in terms of value sales. This has triggered the demand for different types of healthcare products that even includes stockings. Stockings are one of those specialized hosiery products, which are designed to help prevent the occurrence of, and guard against further progression of, venous disorders such as edema, phlebitis, and thrombosis. In addition, stockings improve and regulate blood flow in one’s leg. Moreover, it prevents leg swelling and blood clots, which propel its demand globally, thereby augmenting the growth of the global compression stockings market. The global market can be segmented based stockings into two categories including thigh-high and knee-high. Thigh-high stockings have long been associated with glamour, sophistication, and sensuality, making them a popular choice for special occasions or as a fashion accessory. Thigh-high stockings are more popular in Western countries for formal events and intimate wear, while knee-high stockings are more commonly worn in sports and medical settings. However, there is also a growing trend of knee-high compression stockings being worn for fashion purposes, particularly in Asia.
The global market is further categorised into two application types including body shaping & lifestyle, performance & recovery. Body Shaping and Lifestyle category includes products that are designed to improve the appearance of the body and provide comfort and support for everyday wear. Shapewear and stockings in this category are often made with stretchy and breathable materials that provide compression and shaping to smooth out curves and give a streamlined appearance. This category is particularly popular among women who want to improve their body shape or enhance their wardrobe. The segment is growing with over 6% CAGR for 2023-2028. On the other hand, performance and recovery category includes products that are designed for athletes, people recovering from surgery or injury, or those who are on their feet for long periods. These stockings and shapewear are designed to provide support, compression, and promote circulation to reduce muscle fatigue and aid in recovery. They are often made with moisture-wicking and antibacterial materials that prevent odour and keep the wearer comfortable. In addition to that, the growing demand for plus-size clothing is creating significant growth opportunities for vendors in the market. However, the availability of counterfeit apparel products might hamper the market growth. According to the report, polyester material is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period.
In recent years, shapewear has become a major fashion trend globally as it enables people to modify their physical appearance in an instant. The availability of these products has effectively boosted the confidence of people having certain body limitations. The increasing incidence of lifestyle diseases such as obesity and diabetes is expected to generate high demand for adaptable shapewear during the forecast period. People are increasingly using adaptive shapewear to hide their excess body fat and look great in shape. These shapewear clothing are especially worn on special occasions. Similarly, a rise in the concept of body positivity is expected to boost the market during the projection period. Several cultural changes have benefited the shapewear industry. Shapewear was originally used to hide or ""flatten"" certain body parts, but modern shapewear celebrates diversity and body positivity. Companies are upgrading and expanding their product portfolios to provide customers with a wide range of options. For instance, in 2022, Spanx launched its fall collection which is shapewear clothing. Similarly, in 2022, Skims launched its collection of ‘Soft Smoothing Seamless’, which offers a thong bodysuit and a smoothing short, turtleneck, and tank top. Moreover, in 2020, Thermajane launched a new line of compression wear for women, which offers shirts, pants, and compression shorts. Thermajane's fabric technology delivers moisture-wicking for dryness and cool comfort when working out at the gym or traveling.
The women category is the most common user of adaptive shapewear, accounting for more than 70% of the total sales of shapewear & stockings products. Shapewear and stockings are primarily marketed and designed for women. The demand for these products among women is high, as they offer a way to improve the appearance of the body, enhance comfort, and provide support for everyday wear or special occasions. The shapewear and stockings market for women is diverse and includes a range of products such as control panties, body shapers, tights, and stockings. The market for shapewear and stockings for men is relatively small compared to women, but it is growing. Men's shapewear is designed to provide support and enhance the appearance of the body, particularly around the midsection. Compression stockings are also available for men who require them for medical or sports-related reasons. Women use these clothing to maintain their body shapes while at the same time addressing the overweight issue. Consequently, manufacturers are focusing on innovations to improve comfort, and performance which is leading to increased adoption among women.
According to the report, the market is categorized into various distribution channel including hypermarkets & supermarkets, specialty stores, online and others. Among them, specialty stores segment is leading the market in 2022. Specialty stores are leading in sales channel for shapewear and stockings because they offer a unique and specialized shopping experience that is tailored to the specific needs and preferences of customers looking for these products. Specialty stores typically carry a wide range of shapewear and stockings products from different brands, which allows customers to compare and choose from a variety of options. The specialized nature of shapewear and stockings products makes it important for customers to have access to a sales channel that provides expertise, a range of products, personalized service, and brand credibility. However, rising adoption of the Internet and increase in the global penetration of e-Commerce are expected to fuel revenue growth of the body shaper market. Consumers are getting more inclined toward convenience shopping, which has increased the number of people using digital technology for mobile transactions and the purchasing of various products online, which include consumer goods, electronic devices, and others. Furthermore, as millennials are tech-savvy, companies are engaging with their consumers through social media and other digital avenues to advertise their body shaper products and increase their market share via online sales revenue. This is among the major factors projected to accelerate the growth of the body shaper market during the forecast period. Growing consumer inclination toward online purchasing has significantly increased due to multi-vendor or seller availability, which eases product comparison, price comparison, consumer reviews, doorstep delivery, and easy exchange or return policy.
Based on material type, the global market is segmented into cotton, polyester, nylon, and others. The polyester segment is expected to register a rapid revenue growth rate during the forecast period. Polyester is a synthetic fiber that is known for its strength, durability, and wrinkle resistance. It is often used in the production of shapewear and stockings, as it can provide a smooth and sleek appearance while also being easy to care for. Nylon is also popular material used in the production of shapewear and stockings. The high elasticity and compressibility of nylon allow it to achieve good body-shaping effects. As a result, it helps tone up the body parts and takes their shape. It recovers its shape back as soon as it is kept relaxed. This property prevents deformation at joints and curved parts, such as the waist and knees. The fabric is also lightweight, allowing the garment to remain light in weight. Therefore, it facilitates easier movement. Other materials used in the production of shapewear and stockings include silk, wool, and rayon, among others. Each material has its own unique properties and benefits, and manufacturers may choose to use a combination of materials to create garments with specific features and benefits.
Covid-19 Impacts:
The COVID-19 pandemic has reversed the shapewear market trends due to the closure of shopping malls and stores. Many events and gatherings were either delayed or cancelled for fear of the spread of the pandemic, decreasing the demand for shapewear during the pandemic. As a result of the novel coronavirus pandemic, we saw a new trend in fashion. People were embracing minimalism and dressing for themselves. But now that the world is returning to normalcy after the pandemic, the demand for shapewear, intimates, and loungewear is likely to increase by the end of the forecast period.
Recent Developments
• On 6 May 2022, PUMA North America, Inc. launched a new yoga collection of body shapewear with new campaign film #YogaAnywhereEverywhere. The shapers are made with recycled materials and focus on luxe fabrics and silhouettes for the studio and outdoors. Each piece of clothing is designed with breathability, flexibility, and comfort to fit the growing wellness lifestyle. The collection focuses on inclusivity and body positivity.
• SKIMS, a shapewear brand from Kim Kardashian launched the adaptive collection in 2022, which is suitable for disabled customers, and promises the perfect fit for getting a sculptured body shape and looks. The special Hook and Eye type of closure are convenient for people with disabilities, who cannot use both arms or legs to wear clothes.
• In 2022, Lizzo, a popular pop star, launched a new revolutionary shapewear brand called Yitty, in partnership with Fabletics, Inc.
• In June 2021, Spanx announced the release of its new Spring Collection. This new product line is non-shaping, made with UPF 50+, protects from the sun, and is resistant to chlorine and soft water.
Major Companies present in the market:
Jocky International, Inc., Victoria's Secret, Triumph International, Vedette Shapewear, Spanx Llc, Hanesbrand Inc, Miraclesuit, Adidas Inc, Leonisa S.A., Wacoal Ltd, Ann Chery, 2XU Corporation, Belly Bandit, Under Armour Inc., Annette International Corporation, Rago Shapewear, Body Hush, Lytess, Solidea Medical Srl, Chantelle Group
Considered in this report
• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028
Aspects covered in this report
• Global Shapewear & Stockings market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Region-wise Shapewear & Stockings market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation
Regions & Countries covered in the report:
• North America (United States, Canada, Mexico)
• Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, Russia)
• Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea)
• South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia)
• Middle-East & Africa (UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa)
By Product Type:
• Shapwear
• Stockings
By Application:
• Body Shaping and Lifestyle
• Performance and lifestyle
By Material:
• Polyester
• Nylon
• Cotton
• Others
By Distribution channel:
• Hypermarket/Supermarket
• Specialty Stores
• Online
• Others
By End User:
• Men
• Women
By Shapewear:
• Body Shapers
• Seamless
• Body Briefs
• Long Legs
• Control Camisoles
• Corsets
• Others
By Stockings:
• Thigh High
• Knee High
The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports of companies, analyzing the government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.
Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the Shapewear & Stockings industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.
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