Decoding Consumer Demands for Next-to-Skin Apparel
The apparel landscape is evolving. Gone are the days when style reigned by its lonesome. Today, consumers are demanding more – they want garments that not only look good but, more importantly, feel good and perform exceptionally, especially when it comes to their next-to-skin apparel. These changes have been driven by a blend of heightened awareness around wellness, a desire for all-day comfort, and a demand for functionality that seamlessly integrates into modern lifestyles.
Moisture management has become a non-negotiable, particularly in the activewear and athleisure sector. Nielsen data shows that over 60% of consumers in this segment prioritize moisture-wicking and quick-drying capabilities. This underscores the importance of keeping customers dry and comfortable. Similarly, breathability is paramount. McKinsey & Co. reports that around 50% of consumers are actively seeking “technical comfort”.
Beyond technical features, the tactile experience is crucial. Cotton Inc.’s CottonWorks research reveals that nearly 70% of consumers consider fabric softness a primary factor in their satisfaction with next-to-skin garments, highlighting the power of a gentle touch. And in an era of extended wear and active lifestyles, odor control is gaining traction. Euromonitor indicates that approximately 40% of consumers now prefer garments with antimicrobial or odor-controlling properties.
The push for environmentally friendly options is particularly strong, with McKinsey reporting that over half of consumers now consider sustainability in their daily purchasing decisions.
The combination of these critical consumer priorities provides additional guidance to us at AGS in developing innovative technologies that surpass these demands while keeping costs minimized. One such technology is BIOPURE MM1, our castor oil-based moisture management technology that provides superior moisture wicking, quick drying, and cooling performance. The actual cool part, the castor is sourced from farms practicing regenerative agriculture and the castor plant has additional sustainability attributes that benefit the environment and local communities, which is far more important than us being able to claim that our technology, out the door, is carbon negative.
The future of next-to-skin apparel lies in understanding and meeting the multifaceted demands of today’s knowledgeable consumer while quickly discerning their trajectory for the future. At AGS, we prioritize providing innovative products and consulting services that help you do just that.
Related Articles
Related
Regenerative Agriculture For Better Fibers And Chemicals
Regenerative agriculture is an essential starting point to build a more resilient and high-performing textile industry. By focusing on how and where raw materials are grown, regenerative practices deliver tangible benefits to both fiber production and the development...
Comprehensive Raw Material Innovation
The path to sustainability for textile technologies demands more than replacing synthetic inputs with plant-based alternatives. While the market sees a growing number of bio-based solutions, many fall short of expectations. Retrofitting an existing technology by...
BIOPURE HS5: Exceptional Soft Touch For Wool
At AGS, we continue to challenge expectations of what a plant-based textile softener can achieve. BIOPURE HS5 has proven to be an exceptional solution not only for cotton and synthetics, but also for wool and wool-rich textiles. Providing durable softness, silky...