Blank Apparel Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (T-shirts & Tanks, Hoodies/Sweatshirts, Bottoms, Shirts), By Distribution Channel (B2B, B2C, Offline, Online), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030

Blank Apparel Market Size & Trends

The global blank apparel market size was estimated at USD 13.99 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2023 to 2030. One of the key factors propelling the market growth is the shift in consumer preferences toward customization and personalization, coupled with the rising trends in athleisure and active wear. Additionally, blank apparel serves as a canvas for self-expression, allowing individuals and organizations to imprint their unique designs, logos, or messages on clothing items, creating a sense of individuality and brand identity.

The fashion industry is increasingly embracing gender-neutral and inclusive clothing options. Blank apparel manufacturers are responding by offering gender-neutral sizing and styles, catering to a diverse range of consumers, and promoting inclusiveness. Blank apparel plays an important role in fashion trends, particularly in streetwear and casual fashion. Basic blank items like plain white t-shirts and hoodies have become iconic fashion staples. Additionally, the minimalist nature of blank apparel often fits well with different styles and trends, allowing consumers to incorporate them easily into their wardrobes.

Increasing consumer awareness about environmental issues has driven the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly blank apparel. Many consumers are looking for garments made from organic or recycled materials and produced using environmentally responsible manufacturing processes. The increasing interest in customization within the fashion domain further augments the allure of blank apparel. The straightforwardness and economic efficiency of direct-to-garment (DTG) printing technology have catalyzed a transition toward personalized clothing, wherein blank apparel provides an optimal basis for such customization endeavors.

The athleisure trend, characterized by comfortable and stylish athletic-inspired clothing for everyday wear, has boosted the demand for blank apparel items like performance t-shirts, leggings, and sweatpants. Consumers are seeking comfortable and versatile active wear for both exercise and daily activities. The digital age has significantly enhanced the accessibility and appeal of blank apparel. Breakthroughs in fabric technology have given rise to enhanced performance attributes in blank apparel, such as moisture-wicking, odor resistance, and temperature regulation. These qualities are gaining traction, particularly among those engaged in athletic and outdoor pursuits, as consumers increasingly prioritize functionality in their choice of blank apparel.

Online retail platforms have played a pivotal role in making blank apparel globally accessible. Simultaneously, social media influencers have contributed to its rising popularity. These influencers, whether advocating for the minimalist aesthetic or demonstrating the versatility of blank apparel, have helped solidify their status in the fashion landscape.

Type Insights

T-shirts & tanks dominated the market with a revenue share of 44.1% in 2022. There has been a growing trend of casual and comfortable clothing, especially with the rise of remote work and lifestyle changes. T-shirts and tanks epitomize casual wear, making them increasingly popular choices for everyday attire. These are versatile garments that can be worn in various settings and styled in different ways and can be paired with jeans for a casual look or dressed up with blazers and accessories for a more polished appearance. This versatility makes them appealing to a wide range of consumers.

The hoodies/sweatshirts segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2023 to 2030. Streetwear fashion, characterized by its casual and often oversized styles, has gained significant popularity in recent years. Hoodies and sweatshirts are central pieces of streetwear collections due to their relaxed fit and urban aesthetic. The influence of streetwear in mainstream fashion has led to increased demand for these garments.

Distribution Channel Insights

The B2B segment dominated the market with a revenue share of 91.6% in 2022. Many businesses and organizations require blank apparel items that they can customize with their logos, designs, and branding. B2B suppliers offer bulk quantities of blank garments, which are then used for various purposes, such as uniforms, promotional merchandise, and event giveaways. Blank apparel is frequently used for events, trade shows, and promotions. Businesses and organizations may need large quantities of t-shirts, hoodies, or other apparel items for giveaways or as part of marketing campaigns. B2B suppliers can offer cost-effective solutions for sourcing these items in bulk.

The B2C segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2023 to 2030. The rise of e-commerce platforms and direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands has made it easier for individual consumers to access blank apparel products online. DTC brands often offer a wide range of blank apparel items, allowing consumers to browse and purchase directly from the manufacturer or brand, cutting out intermediaries and reducing costs. The B2C segment is further classified into online and offline. The online segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period. Online shopping offers unparalleled convenience for consumers. They can browse, select, and purchase any item of their choice, from anywhere.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific dominated the market with a revenue share of 44.8% in 2022. The region is home to several major textile and apparel production hubs, which facilitate the growth of the blank apparel industry by offering cost-effective sourcing options for both domestic and international buyers. The growing trend of apparel customization, enabled significantly by direct-to-government (DTG) printing technology, resonates with the inherent versatility of blank apparel, further driving its demand.

Countries such as China, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Australia, and India are identified in the Asia Pacific sports apparel market report, with China dominating due to its large consumer base and extensive e-commerce platforms. A shift in consumer preferences toward more sustainable and customizable clothing options is contributing to the rising demand for blank apparel in the region. The synthesis of these factors paints a picture of a burgeoning blank apparel industry in the region, aligned with broader textile and apparel market trends.

However,Europe is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 5.6% from 2023 to 2030. Europe has a well-established manufacturing and distribution infrastructure for the fashion industry. This includes access to high-quality fabrics, skilled labor, and efficient supply chains. These factors make it easier for businesses to source and produce blank apparel in Europe, ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery to customers. Europe is known for its diverse fashion trends and subcultures, which often require blank apparel as a base for creating unique looks. Whether it is streetwear, athleisure, or vintage-inspired fashion, blank apparel provides a versatile starting point for designers and brands to create on-trend clothing.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The market includes both international and domestic participants. Brand share analysis indicates that key players are focusing on strategies such as new apparel launches, partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, and global expansions. In August 2023, Smartex Apparel, a wholesale apparel brand, announced two new styles under the Smart Blanks apparel line-Style PD200: Adult Vintage Tee and Style PD1000: Adult Vintage Hoodie. Embracing the long-standing tradition of superior ring-spun combed cotton quality; these fresh additions further enrich and augment the adaptability of the Smart Blank's apparel range.

Similarly, in September 2022, Blankstyle.com announced a partnership with Smart Blanks, a distinguished apparel manufacturer rooted in Anaheim, California, known for its high-grade yet affordable blank apparel. This collaboration will empower Blankstyle to incorporate the Smart Blanks product lineup within their wholesale distribution platform, enhancing their offerings significantly.

Blank Apparel Market Report Scope

Global Blank Apparel Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the global, regional & country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2017 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global blank apparel market report based on type, distribution channel, and region:

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

  • T-shirts & Tanks

  • Hoodies/ Sweatshirts

  • Bottoms

  • Shirts

  • Others

• Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

  • B2B

  • B2C

    • Online

    • Offline

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

    • Japan

    • Australia & New Zealand

    • South Korea

  • Central and South America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East and Africa

    • South Africa