Kids Apparel Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Product Type (Formal, Casual, and Semi-formal), By End-User (Boys and Girls), By Age Group (Below 5 Years, 5-10 Years, and Above 10 Years), By Distribution Channel (Online and Offline), and Regional Forecast, 2023-2030

The global kids apparel market size was valued at USD 187.29 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 198.80 billion in 2023 to USD 318.34 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.96% during the forecast period.

Kid’s fashion has gained significant popularity in recent years as companies are launching attractive pieces of clothing that are in line with the current fashion trends for children. Kid’s apparel is mainly made of cotton as it is easy to wash, does not shrink, and prevents color fading. Demographic change is one of the most important drivers for the children's clothing sector. Rapid urbanization has led to retail expansion, and the global e-commerce sector is also on the rise. The tendency to buy branded products for children is particularly strong among parents in urban areas. Increasing disposable income, media coverage, peer pressure, and growing awareness of kids clothing brands among parents may drive the global kids apparel market growth.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Transport and Travel Restraints Hindered Market Progress During Pandemic

Governments across the world imposed lockdowns and travel restrictions to minimize the spread of coronavirus in 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the market growth. Various lockdowns imposed across the world forced manufacturers to close their plants due to reduced demand for apparels and severe labor shortages. Additionally, lockdowns also negatively impacted the sales of kids clothing due to the closure of specialty stores, fashion stores, and hypermarkets. Moreover, trade tensions and trade precautions taken at the international level between China, Australia, the U.S., and other major trading partners hindered the sales of consumer goods in the short term. In recent years, several players implemented various strategies to minimize the operational impact of COVID-19 on the markets. Some of the popular brand recovery strategies include diversifying product offerings, pricing, personalized marketing campaigns, and investing in new technologies.

The COVID-19 pandemic created lucrative business opportunities for domestic and foreign brands to take advantage of severe supply chain disruptions. Offline sales were hit hard, but online sales remained resilient during this crisis. In a post-COVID scenario, DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) services may benefit from the customer relationship.

LATEST TRENDS

Rising Influence of Social Media on Kids Apparel to Propel Market Growth

Parents in developed and developing countries use social media platforms to post pictures of themselves and their children in matching clothes. This trend was inspired by major brands, such as Dolce & Gabbana who created miniature and age-appropriate versions of adult clothing. This trend of partnering with children has gained tremendous popularity in the market. Fueled by celebrity parents, such as Kim Kardashian and Beyoncé, the trend is expected to boost the market growth. The more time kids spend on social media, the more brand awareness they have and the more willing they are to share their opinions on clothing choices. Parents are also willing to make these decisions regardless of the costs involved, thus driving the market's growth.

Gender-neutral clothing is trending in the kids wear market as well. Manufacturers are focusing on launching gender-neutral apparel and boosting their product sales. For instance,

• In June 2021, PacSun launched a new category, PacSun Kids, on their website and special pop-up shops. The new category would feature gender-neutral wardrobe choices for kids aged between 4 and 14 years.


• In September 2021, the Row, a luxury brand, launched its first gender-neutral kids line of clothing. The line included crewneck sweaters, lounge pants, and belted cardigans, all made from luxurious cashmere.

DRIVING FACTORS

Growing Number of Newborn Babies to Favor Market Expansion

The growing number of newborns across the world has boosted the demand for kids apparel, resulting in parents increasing their spending on kids clothing. Significant progress has been made in reducing child mortality, which has positively impacted the growth of the market. For instance, according to the World Bank, in 2021, 25% of the global population was under 15 years old.

Growing Demand for Branded Apparel to Fuel Market Progress

The demand for children's clothing has recently increased due to rapid changes in consumer lifestyle and growing demand for branded clothing. Consumers are always willing to switch to new products and brands to get maximum satisfaction from using quality products. This has prompted clothing brands to make some strategic decisions regarding product pricing. These aspects will likely influence the demand for kids apparel and are expected to drive the global market during the forecast period. For instance, in November 2021, Poppabum, a sustainable premium clothing brand, offered a uniquely designed and vibrant range of jumpsuits and pinafores for children in the Indian market.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Volatility in Prices of Raw Materials to Hamper Product Sales

Fluctuations in the price of raw materials, such as cotton, which is used in manufacturing children's clothing, can hinder the market growth. Fluctuations in yarn prices are expected to continue as the demand for cotton continues to increase in the global market. Since the onset of the pandemic, the biggest obstacle for the yarn industry has been price rise, which disrupted the textile value chain and impacted the final price of apparel products.

SEGMENTATION

By Product Type Analysis

Casual Segment to Lead Backed by Regular Usage of Casual Clothes

Based on product type, the market is segmented into formal, casual, and semi-formal. The casual segment is estimated to record a significant growth rate during the forecast period. The growing preference for clothes that are light, comfortable, and easy to wear all day long will also contribute to the segment’s growth.

Since children have sensitive skin, they are more prone to rashes, inflammation, and skin allergies. Parents choose children's clothes that are made of skin-friendly fabrics to prevent skin irritation. The materials used in children's clothing should be soft and light to provide maximum comfort for children. These factors will boost the sales of casual clothing.

By End-User Analysis

Boys Segment to Dominate Market Due to Increasing Number of Newborn Males

Based on end-user, the market is segmented into boys and girls. The boys segment is expected to dominate the market as the number of boys born in the last few decades is more than that of girls across the world. According to the World Bank, the global sex ratio at birth was 106 male births per 100 female births in 2021. Manufacturers are launching new products to boost their sales of boy’s clothing. For instance, in July 2022, Airwalk ventured into the boys clothing section by launching a new, extensive range of boys’ apparel at JCPenney.

However, the availability of a wide variety of clothes for baby girls including dresses, skirts, and tops is projected to rise in the coming years, thus boosting the market share. For instance,

• In February 2022, Maurices, an apparel retailer, expanded into women’s fashion and launched a tween girls (ages 8-12) brand, Evise.


• In December 2021, Myntra launched Justice, a girls-only tween fashion brand in India.

By Age Group Analysis

Kids Preference for Stylish & Trendy Clothes to Drive Above 10 Years Segment Growth

Based on age group, the market is segmented into below 5 years, 5-10 years, and above 10 years. The above 10 years segment held the largest market share in 2022. Increasing preference for branded clothes and the growing trend of parents and kids wearing identical clothes may surge the demand for the product. Furthermore, rising demand for stylish and trendy apparel is boosting the market growth.

The below 5 years segment is expected to grow significantly throughout the forecast period. The increasing number of newborn babies and rising trend of using branded items are key factors driving the market progress. Furthermore, parents opt for sustainable, durable, and long-lasting clothes for kids due to their children’s active lifestyles, which also result in fueling the product demand.

Gender-neutral baby apparel is gaining significant popularity, and many key players are introducing unisex sections to their children's clothing categories. Consumers are becoming more conscious about their baby’s appearance and want to adopt new cultural trends. These factors will surge the demand for baby & toddler clothing in the coming years. Market players are focusing on launching innovative products to cater to this segment's increasing demand for baby apparel. For instance,

• In April 2022, H&M launched a new line of baby clothes with a 12-piece cotton collection for newborns, which are recyclable.


• In September 2022, PatPat, a toddler & baby clothing brand, launched Go-Neat Techwear, its first baby techwear range for babies and toddlers that claimed to be extra comfortable and stain restraint.

By Distribution Channel Analysis

Offline Segment to Dominate Market Due to Growing Demand for Quality Kids Products

Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented into offline and online. The offline segment held a large market share in 2022, accounting for over 75% of the global revenue. Large-scale children's clothing retailers are focusing on expanding their network to meet the growing demand for baby clothing. Manufacturers are trying to expand their distribution channels and product portfolios. For instance, in November 2021, Peter England launched Peter England Boys and Girls in the kids wear segment with its exclusive store in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.

The online segment is expected to grow significantly throughout the forecast period. Rising internet penetration, ongoing promotions by e-commerce sites, such as Amazon, Flipkart, and Alibaba, and significant discounts offered by them have made online shopping more acceptable among parents across the world. Additionally, this distribution channel provides a platform for new entrants in the industry to promote and sell their products, regardless of geographical boundaries. For instance,

• In June 2021, Brave Kid, a company of the OTB Group, opened its direct online multi-brand store and made new additions to its licensed brands, including the addition of the MM6 Maison Margiela line to its portfolio.


• In 2020, Nykaa Fashion launched kids apparel on its official website and app with more than 30 international and Indian kids clothing brands.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

The global market is studied across Europe, North America, South America, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa.

Asia Pacific is expected to maintain dominant kids apparel market share during the forecast period owing to the growing infant population, increasing disposable income, and improved childcare in rural and urban areas, especially in developing countries, such as India and China. Consumer spending on children's clothing and footwear in Asia is expected to increase due to robust economic growth and rising household incomes. For instance, in July 2021, Nesavu launched a new designer kids ethnic apparel store in Coimbatore, India.

The North America market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. Working-class parents in the U.S. are becoming more concerned about the safety and health of their infants, leading to a surge in the labor force and an increase in dual-income households. Recently, rising temperatures in the region have prompted parents to purchase high-quality baby clothing products that provide comfort and safety for their babies. Demand for these products usually increases during festivals and events where many children participate in programs, such as Halloween, cosplay, and school talent shows. These factors are driving the market growth in this region.

Europe holds a significant market share owing to the rise in the population of kids. According to the European Union, in 2020, 4.07 million babies were born in Europe, and 4.09 million babies were born in 2021. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of online sales channels for the purchase of kids apparel in the region accelerates the market growth.

South America is also expected to grow substantially due to rising disposable income and changing lifestyles in the region. However, the demand for kids apparel products is expected to increase gradually during the forecast period, owing to the increasing urbanization and rising living standards in the region.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Companies to Deploy Innovative Strategies to Gain Competitive Edge

The global market is highly competitive and prominent players, such as Carter’s, Nike, Burberry, and others, have focused on store launches, partnerships, and business expansions to gain a strong foothold in the market. Players are also focusing on promotion and marketing strategies to create strong brand awareness. For example, in April 2022, Michael Kors launched a new sporty-chic line of children’s clothing.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Carter’s, Inc. (U.S.)


• The Children's Place, Inc. (U.S.)


• Nike, Inc. (U.S.)


• Gianni Versace S.r.l. (Italy)


• Industria de Diseño Textil, S.A. (Inditex) (Spain)


• Hennes & Mauritz AB (Sweden)


• Mothercare plc (U.K.)


• Cotton On Group (Australia)


• Burberry (U.K.)


• Gerber Childrenswear LLC (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• October 2022: H&M launched its new collection “Imagine That”, the first independent kidswear range from its innovation stories initiative. The new collection is produced from recycled bottles and a cactus-derived leather alternative.


• October 2022: Les Petits, a luxury fashion brand, launched a new exclusive range of kids apparel from its in-house brands Rang and Stella Rossa. The new collection of Rang consists of ethnic wear, while Stella Rossa caters more to party wear for special occasions.


• October 2022: Starrior, a kids clothing brand, launched its first collection of high-quality, eco-friendly clothing for children. The range consists of t-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, sweatpants, hats, and everyday wear in sizes ranging from Newborn to Youth XL.


• July 2022: Abercrombie Kids, an Abercrombie & Fitch Co. division, launched its new denim collection 2022 for kids with brand new options for fit and sizing.


• January 2022: Michael Kors, in partnership with Children Worldwide Fashion (CWF) announced the launch of children’s apparel and accessories for boys and girls.

REPORT COVERAGE

The research report analyzes the market in-depth and highlights crucial aspects such as prominent companies, product types, and sales channels. Besides, it provides insights into the latest market trends and highlights significant industry developments. In addition to the factors mentioned earlier, the report encompasses several factors contributing to the market's growth.

Report Scope & Segmentation