TOP 20 DEPARTMENT STORE APPAREL STATISTICS 2025

When it comes to shopping, department store apparel statistics give us a fascinating window into how people choose their clothes and accessories today. From billion-dollar market sizes to the rise of e-commerce fashion, these numbers aren’t just abstract figures—they tell stories of how consumers browse, buy, and even impulse-pick items like socks at the checkout counter. For me, walking into a department store always feels like stepping into a curated world where every aisle has its own character, and apparel consistently takes center stage. It’s a mix of tradition and modernity, where you can find timeless brands sitting alongside trend-driven pieces. That’s why diving into the stats matters—it helps make sense of what’s thriving, what’s struggling, and where department stores are headed next.

Top 20 Department Store Apparel Statistics 2025 (Editor’s Choice)

 

Top 20 Department Store Apparel Statistics 2025

Department Store Apparel Statistics #1 – Global Apparel Market Size Reached US$1.84 Trillion In 2025

The global apparel market achieved an impressive US$1.84 trillion valuation in 2025, reflecting its resilience after several years of supply chain and consumer behavior shifts. This growth has been fueled by the steady return of in-store shopping and the surge of online sales channels. Department stores have benefited by offering both premium and affordable apparel options under one roof. Apparel continues to be the largest revenue generator across department store categories, outpacing accessories and home goods. This figure highlights the continued importance of apparel as the cornerstone of retail revenues worldwide.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #2 – Department Store Market Projected To Grow From US$117B (2021) To US$166B (2030)

The department store market was valued at US$117 billion in 2021 and is on track to expand to US$166 billion by 2030. Much of this growth will come from enhanced digital integration and revamped in-store experiences. Apparel remains the leading category driving consumer visits and overall sales growth. The forecast shows department stores adapting successfully to competition from specialty retailers and online-only brands. This upward projection reflects the sector’s ability to evolve and sustain relevance in a highly competitive retail environment.

 

 

Department Store Apparel Statistics #3 – Department Stores Expected To Grow At 5–6% CAGR (2022–2030)

Between 2022 and 2030, department store revenues are expected to grow steadily at a compound annual growth rate of 5–6%. This consistent growth trajectory suggests a strong recovery from pandemic-related downturns. Apparel remains a key pillar in ensuring this momentum, particularly as fashion demand cycles accelerate through fast fashion and seasonal collections. With careful investments in digital tools and omnichannel strategies, stores are stabilizing their growth models. The projected CAGR underscores confidence from analysts in the longevity of the department store format.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #4 – North America Accounts For ~45% Of Department Store Revenues (2025)

North America continues to dominate the department store landscape, generating around 45% of the global revenue in 2025. The region’s strong presence is supported by legacy brands, premium malls, and established retail chains. Apparel sales in North America remain robust due to consumer affinity for branded clothing and seasonal promotions. Despite increased online competition, department stores in this market have maintained loyalty with curated fashion assortments. The large share also reflects North America’s position as a trendsetter in global retail.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #5 – Asia-Pacific Forecasted To Grow At 5.8% CAGR In Department Stores

Asia-Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region for department stores, with a forecast CAGR of 5.8%. Rising disposable incomes and expanding urban populations are driving more spending on apparel. International fashion brands are expanding their footprint in department stores across key Asian cities. Consumers in this region are also embracing premium and luxury apparel, further boosting store revenues. The rapid growth rate signals that Asia-Pacific will be a vital growth engine for global department store performance.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #6 – Apparel & Accessories Make Up 47% Of Department Store Sales

Softlines such as apparel and accessories represent nearly half (47%) of total department store revenues. This dominance reflects consumers’ reliance on department stores as key destinations for fashion needs. Apparel’s higher contribution compared to home goods and electronics highlights its importance for revenue stability. Retailers often design promotional campaigns around clothing collections to sustain traffic and sales. The category’s performance underlines apparel as the lifeblood of the department store model.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #7 – Clothing/Apparel Store Revenues Projected To Exceed US$1 Trillion In 2025

Clothing and apparel stores collectively are projected to generate more than US$1 trillion in revenues during 2025. Department stores play a major role in capturing this demand through their wide variety of apparel offerings. Consumers are drawn to stores for one-stop shopping experiences, particularly during seasonal and holiday sales. Apparel’s contribution to this trillion-dollar milestone highlights the global appetite for fashion. The projection emphasizes how central apparel remains to retail economics worldwide.

 

 

Department Store Apparel Statistics #8 – Apparel Store Market Forecast To Hit US$1.38 Trillion By 2029

The apparel store market is expected to expand further, reaching US$1.38 trillion by 2029. Growth is being accelerated by e-commerce integration, international expansion, and new sustainability trends. Department stores will benefit by tailoring offerings to both mass-market and premium consumer segments. Apparel’s continued growth trajectory underscores its central role in fueling overall retail performance. This long-term forecast points to a vibrant and competitive future for fashion within department stores.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #9 – E-Commerce Apparel Sales Expected To Reach US$779 Billion In 2025

By 2025, online apparel sales are projected to hit US$779 billion globally. Department stores are increasingly capturing part of this growth through integrated websites and click-and-collect models. Consumers appreciate the convenience of shopping apparel digitally while still having access to physical returns and fittings. Apparel categories dominate online sales, driven by fast fashion and influencer marketing. This trend reflects the hybrid reality of retail, where e-commerce and department stores are deeply interconnected.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #10 – Department Store Profitability Pressured By Tariffs In Apparel Segment

Trade tariffs and policy shifts have created financial challenges for department stores, especially in apparel. Import costs for textiles and clothing items have cut into margins across many retailers. Department stores are forced to adjust prices or absorb the added costs, impacting competitiveness. This pressure is particularly visible in U.S. and European markets where reliance on imported apparel is high. The situation highlights the vulnerability of apparel-dependent retailers to global trade tensions.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #11 – Softlines Remain The Biggest Growth Driver For Department Stores

Softlines, including apparel and accessories, remain the primary growth engine for department stores. Their high turnover and trend-driven nature bring consistent customer traffic. Seasonal fashion launches and collaborations often spark significant sales spikes. This segment provides department stores with differentiation against purely online rivals. The continued reliance on softlines underscores their central role in retail strategies.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #12 – Department Stores Investing In Omnichannel Retail

Many department stores are investing heavily in omnichannel retail strategies. This includes integrating online platforms, mobile apps, and physical stores into a seamless shopping journey. Apparel categories benefit the most, as consumers often browse online before purchasing in-store. These efforts improve customer retention and expand the audience base. Omnichannel innovation is now a survival strategy rather than an optional upgrade.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #13 – Foot Traffic Declining In Mature Markets

Foot traffic in department stores has been steadily declining across mature markets like North America and Europe. The shift towards e-commerce has altered shopping habits, particularly in apparel. Many consumers prefer online browsing due to wider choices and price comparisons. Department stores are responding by creating more experiential spaces to draw visitors. The trend reflects the ongoing challenge of sustaining physical store relevance.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #14 – Chains With Strong Digital Sales Outperform Traditional Retailers

Department store chains that have embraced digital sales outperform those relying mainly on physical outlets. Apparel is particularly successful online due to its visual appeal and social media integration. Retailers that streamline online ordering and returns gain customer loyalty. These digital-first strategies often lead to higher overall sales growth. The clear advantage demonstrates the urgency of digital transformation in apparel retail.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #15 – Rising Disposable Income Fuels Apparel Demand In Asia-Pacific

In Asia-Pacific, rising disposable income is directly fueling demand for branded apparel in department stores. Consumers are more willing to spend on premium and luxury clothing options. The fashion aspirations of younger demographics are also reshaping retail inventories. International and local brands are seizing this opportunity by expanding in department stores. The trend signals Asia-Pacific’s increasing influence on global fashion markets.

 

Department Store Apparel Statistics #16 – Women’s Apparel Leads With US$930B In 2025

Women’s apparel dominates the global apparel market with US$930 billion in revenues in 2025. This segment outpaces men’s (US$588B) and children’s (US$274B), making it the largest growth driver for department stores. Fashion-forward trends and frequent seasonal updates keep women’s apparel highly dynamic. Department stores rely on women’s categories for consistent foot traffic and basket size increases. The scale of this segment reinforces its unmatched importance in fashion retail.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #17 – Fast Fashion, Social Media, And Athleisure Reshape Consumer Expectations

Fast fashion and athleisure trends, amplified by social media, are reshaping consumer expectations. Shoppers now demand faster product cycles and trend-responsive collections in department stores. Social platforms amplify these shifts by creating viral apparel trends overnight. Department stores must adapt their inventory quickly to remain relevant. This consumer mindset underscores the speed-driven nature of today’s fashion landscape.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #18 – Sustainability, Customization, And Inclusive Sizing Boost Growth

Department stores are seeing increased growth potential by focusing on sustainability, customization, and inclusivity. Apparel brands that offer eco-friendly fabrics and extended sizing options resonate strongly with consumers. Shoppers increasingly expect department stores to align with ethical fashion values. Customization options, such as monogramming and tailored fits, are also gaining popularity. These strategies strengthen long-term customer loyalty and brand image.

Department Store Apparel Statistics #19 – Apparel More Sensitive To Inflation And Supply Chain Shocks

Compared to other retail categories, apparel is more vulnerable to inflation, tariffs, and supply chain disruptions. Rising material costs and logistics bottlenecks often result in higher clothing prices. Department stores must balance affordability while protecting profit margins. Shoppers are highly price-sensitive in apparel, making them quick to react to cost increases. The sensitivity of this category highlights the need for agile sourcing strategies.

 

Department Store Apparel Statistics #20 – Department Stores Compete With Online-Only Brands

Department stores now face direct competition from digitally native and direct-to-consumer apparel brands. These competitors often undercut prices while offering trendy designs online. To respond, department stores are rethinking logistics, inventory, and digital experiences. Apparel sits at the center of this battle since it dominates consumer spending. The competitive landscape highlights the urgent need for department stores to modernize.

What These Numbers Mean For The Future Of Department Store Apparel

Looking at these department store apparel statistics, it’s clear that fashion is still the heartbeat of the retail experience. While online shopping has changed the game, department stores remain an anchor for people who want to touch fabrics, try on outfits, or grab those extra socks they didn’t even know they needed. The balance between physical stores and digital growth is reshaping the way apparel is sold, but the demand itself is only getting stronger. Personally, it makes me think that department stores aren’t going anywhere—they’re simply reinventing themselves to match our evolving lifestyles. In the end, these numbers remind us that apparel isn’t just about clothing; it’s about how we connect with style, comfort, and the little rituals of shopping we all share.

Sources