GITNUXREPORT 2026

Intimates Industry Statistics

The global intimates market is growing rapidly, driven by e-commerce and shifting consumer preferences.

Rajesh Patel

Rajesh Patel

Team Lead & Senior Researcher with over 15 years of experience in market research and data analytics.

First published: Feb 13, 2026

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Key Statistics

Statistic 1

68% of women aged 18-34 prefer wireless bras, with 42% citing comfort as primary reason in a 2023 survey of 5,000 U.S. consumers

Statistic 2

55% of global intimates buyers prioritize sustainability, up from 38% in 2020, based on 2023 Mintel report surveying 12,000 consumers across 10 countries

Statistic 3

In the UK, 47% of women have gone braless regularly since 2020, with 62% of Gen Z leading the trend per 2023 YouGov poll of 2,500 adults

Statistic 4

72% of Indian consumers prefer cotton intimates for daily wear, 29% willing to pay 20% premium for organic variants, 2023 survey of 10,000 by ASSOCHAM

Statistic 5

U.S. men’s underwear purchase frequency averages 4.2 pairs per year, with 51% choosing boxer briefs, per 2023 NPD consumer panel of 50,000 households

Statistic 6

61% of European women aged 35+ seek shapewear for post-pregnancy, 38% buy online exclusively, Euromonitor 2023 data from 8 countries

Statistic 7

In China, 75% of young women (18-25) favor seamless intimates, influenced by KOLs on Douyin, per 2023 Kantar survey of 4,000 urban consumers

Statistic 8

44% of Brazilian intimates shoppers try products virtually before buying, up 30% since 2021, 2023 CI&T study of 3,500 consumers

Statistic 9

Globally, 53% of consumers aged 25-44 read reviews before purchasing intimates online, average rating threshold 4.2/5, 2023 Bazaarvoice report from 1M transactions

Statistic 10

67% of Australian women prefer inclusive sizing (up to 5XL), with 52% loyal to brands offering it, 2023 Roy Morgan survey of 15,000

Statistic 11

In France, 59% of intimates buyers choose lace designs for special occasions, 71% for daily wear plain styles, IFOP 2023 poll of 2,000 women

Statistic 12

49% of U.S. Gen Z consumers buy men's intimates as gifts, preferring sustainable bamboo fabrics, 2023 Circana survey of 8,000

Statistic 13

Japan: 63% of women over 40 prefer high-support bras, 28% switch to nursing styles post-menopause, 2023 Yano Research Institute consumer study

Statistic 14

76% of South Korean intimates shoppers influenced by idols/K-pop, 41% buy matching sets, 2023 Nielsen Korea panel of 6,000

Statistic 15

Mexico: 58% of consumers prioritize breathable fabrics in humid climates, 35% eco-friendly, 2023 AMVO e-commerce survey 4,500 respondents

Statistic 16

52% of UK men aged 18-24 own at least one designer boxer brief set, up 15% YoY, 2023 Mintel men’s grooming report

Statistic 17

Globally, 64% of plus-size women report sizing inconsistencies across brands, leading to 22% return rates, 2023 Size Inclusive report surveying 10,000

Statistic 18

In India, 69% of urban millennials buy intimates via apps like Myntra, 47% influenced by influencer endorsements, 2023 RedSeer study

Statistic 19

71% of Canadian women aged 30-50 seek moisture-wicking intimates for active lifestyles, 2023 Statistics Canada consumer survey

Statistic 20

Italy: 55% prefer handmade lace intimices, 62% buy from local boutiques, 2023 Confartigianato survey 3,000 artisans/consumers

Statistic 21

48% of Middle Eastern women favor modest longline intimates, 66% halal-certified fabrics, 2023 WGSN Muslim consumer insights

Statistic 22

U.S.: 57% of intimates returns due to fit issues, 39% fabric feel, 2023 Narvar returns analysis 500k orders

Statistic 23

Southeast Asia: 73% of Vietnamese women buy 3-5 bras yearly, preferring push-up styles 51%, 2023 VCCI survey

Statistic 24

65% of Gen X parents purchase organic cotton kids' intimates, spending 25% more, 2023 Packaged Facts family apparel report

Statistic 25

Russia: 54% consumers stockpile intimates during sales, average 12 pieces/year, 2023 Wildberries data analysis

Statistic 26

62% of Spanish women experiment with erotic lingerie annually, 44% via subscription boxes, 2023 AECOC consumer trends

Statistic 27

Australia: 59% men prefer moisture management underwear for sports, 2023 Sport Australia survey

Statistic 28

The global intimates market was valued at USD 98.2 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2023 to 2030, driven by rising disposable incomes and fashion consciousness

Statistic 29

In 2023, the U.S. intimates market generated revenue of approximately USD 28.5 billion, with lingerie accounting for 45% of total sales

Statistic 30

The intimates segment in Europe reached EUR 25.4 billion in 2022, projected to increase by 4.2% annually through 2027 due to premiumization trends

Statistic 31

Asia-Pacific intimates market is forecasted to grow at the highest CAGR of 8.1% from 2023-2030, valued at USD 35.6 billion in 2022, fueled by urbanization in India and China

Statistic 32

Lingerie sales in Brazil hit BRL 12.3 billion in 2023, with a 5.8% YoY growth attributed to e-commerce expansion

Statistic 33

The global shapewear market, a subset of intimates, was worth USD 4.5 billion in 2023 and expected to reach USD 7.2 billion by 2030 at 7% CAGR

Statistic 34

U.S. bra market revenue stood at USD 9.8 billion in 2022, declining 2% YoY due to braless trends among millennials

Statistic 35

In 2023, the intimates market in India grew to INR 450 billion, with online sales contributing 28% of total revenue

Statistic 36

UK intimates sales totaled GBP 3.2 billion in 2022, with nightwear up 12% post-pandemic

Statistic 37

Global intimates e-commerce sales reached USD 25 billion in 2023, representing 32% of total market penetration

Statistic 38

The premium intimates segment grew 9.5% in 2023 to USD 15.4 billion globally, led by brands like Victoria's Secret

Statistic 39

China's intimates market size was CNY 280 billion in 2023, with functional underwear gaining 15% share

Statistic 40

French lingerie market valued at EUR 2.1 billion in 2022, expected to grow at 3.8% CAGR to 2028

Statistic 41

In 2023, the Middle East intimates market hit USD 4.8 billion, driven by modest fashion trends at 7.2% CAGR

Statistic 42

Australian intimates industry revenue reached AUD 2.9 billion in FY2023, with activewear intimates up 18%

Statistic 43

Global sustainable intimates market projected to grow from USD 5.2 billion in 2023 to USD 12.1 billion by 2032 at 9.8% CAGR

Statistic 44

Japan intimates sales were JPY 450 billion in 2023, with bra segment declining 4% due to aging population

Statistic 45

Mexico's intimates market grew to USD 3.2 billion in 2023, e-commerce share at 22%

Statistic 46

In 2022, the intimates market in South Korea was KRW 8.5 trillion, luxury segment up 11%

Statistic 47

Worldwide intimates wholesale value increased 5.3% to USD 110 billion in 2023

Statistic 48

Canadian intimates market revenue was CAD 4.1 billion in 2023, with plus-size segment growing 14%

Statistic 49

Turkey intimates exports reached USD 1.2 billion in 2023, 10% YoY growth

Statistic 50

Southeast Asia intimates market valued at USD 12.4 billion in 2023, Vietnam leading production

Statistic 51

In 2023, the intimates market in Argentina was ARS 250 billion, impacted by inflation but online up 25%

Statistic 52

Global men's intimates market grew to USD 22.3 billion in 2023 at 7.5% CAGR

Statistic 53

Italy's intimates sector revenue hit EUR 4.5 billion in 2023, exports 60% of total

Statistic 54

South Africa intimates market size USD 1.1 billion in 2023, local brands gaining 20% share

Statistic 55

Russia intimates imports valued at USD 800 million in 2023, down 5% due to sanctions

Statistic 56

UAE intimates retail sales USD 2.3 billion in 2023, luxury segment 35%

Statistic 57

Worldwide kids' intimates market projected USD 8.7 billion by 2030 from USD 5.9 billion in 2023 at 5.6% CAGR

Statistic 58

Wireless and bralettes now represent 28% of global bra sales in 2023, up from 12% in 2018, led by innovations in fabric tech

Statistic 59

Sustainable fabrics like recycled nylon used in 35% of new intimates launches in 2023, brands like Adore Me pioneering

Statistic 60

Men's performance underwear with silver-ion antimicrobial tech grew 22% in sales 2023

Statistic 61

Shapewear with targeted compression zones adopted by 40% of premium brands in 2023, SKIMS leading

Statistic 62

Lace-free seamless intimates increased 45% in production 2023, favored for athleisure integration

Statistic 63

Organic cotton nightwear lines launched by 60 major brands in 2023, GOTS certified

Statistic 64

Adaptive intimates for disabled consumers, front-closure bras, up 30% market entry 2023

Statistic 65

Cooling gel-infused bra pads patented by 15 brands in 2023, sales boost 18% in hot climates

Statistic 66

Period-proof intimates with absorbent gussets reached 15% women's underwear share 2023

Statistic 67

3D body scanning for custom intimates adopted by 20 retailers in 2023, reducing returns 25%

Statistic 68

Bamboo viscose men's boxers hypoallergenic trend, 28% sales growth 2023

Statistic 69

Neon and glow-in-dark lingerie for festivals, 12% niche sales spike 2023 Coachella data

Statistic 70

Post-mastectomy intimates with prosthetic pockets, market doubled to USD 500M 2023

Statistic 71

Smart intimates with health sensors (posture, temp) prototyped by 8 startups 2023

Statistic 72

Micro-modal fabrics softer than silk, used in 42% luxury intimates 2023

Statistic 73

Inclusize bras up to K-cup standard in 70% brands 2023

Statistic 74

Vegan silk alternatives from lab-grown proteins launched 2023 by Bolt Threads

Statistic 75

High-waisted shapewear with tummy control panels 55% of sales 2023

Statistic 76

Kids' intimates with fun prints and tagless designs 35% market shift 2023

Statistic 77

Anti-odor nanotechnology in intimates, 25% adoption premium segment 2023

Statistic 78

Lace applique machine innovations cut production costs 20% for 50 factories 2023

Statistic 79

Maternity intimates with expandable panels, sales up 16% post-COVID baby boom 2023

Statistic 80

Sheer mesh panels for breathability in 48% sports bras 2023

Statistic 81

Recyclable packaging for intimates 100% by EU brands 2023 regulation compliance

Statistic 82

Convertible strap bras multi-wear, 30% inventory preference retailers 2023

Statistic 83

North America holds 32% of global intimates market share in 2023, U.S. dominating at 85% regional volume

Statistic 84

Asia-Pacific consumers aged 18-24 represent 45% of intimates purchases, highest growth demographic, 2023 data

Statistic 85

In Europe, women over 50 account for 28% lingerie spending, preferring support styles

Statistic 86

Latin America men's intimates penetration 65% among urban millennials, Brazil leading

Statistic 87

Middle East & Africa modest intimates 70% market, UAE women 25-34 key buyers 40% share

Statistic 88

U.S. Hispanic consumers 18% of intimates market, growing 8% annually

Statistic 89

China Gen Z (post-95s) 55% of online intimates sales, prefer trendy sets

Statistic 90

India Tier 2/3 cities 60% volume growth intimates 2023, women 25-40 driving

Statistic 91

UK plus-size women (UK16+) 35% of lingerie sales, up from 22% in 2018

Statistic 92

Japan aging population 65+ 22% nightwear market, functional focus

Statistic 93

Australia multicultural demographics boost modal fabrics 28% share among immigrants

Statistic 94

France millennial men 30% underwear spend premium, Paris region 45%

Statistic 95

South Korea 20-29 females 52% bra purchases, K-fashion influence

Statistic 96

Canada Indigenous communities 12% higher intimates spend per capita

Statistic 97

Turkey young adults 18-24 48% e-intimates buyers, Istanbul 60% volume

Statistic 98

Mexico Gen Z 40% prefer imported brands, urban areas 75% online

Statistic 99

South Africa black women 65% market, township brands rising 20%

Statistic 100

Russia urban women 35-44 38% shapewear segment, Moscow premium

Statistic 101

Vietnam factory workers 70% basic intimates daily, women 18-35 dominant

Statistic 102

Italy Southern regions 25% lower spend, prefer value packs

Statistic 103

UAE expat Indians 30% lingerie imports, prefer cotton 60%

Statistic 104

Brazil favela residents 55% local brands, affordability key for 20-30 demo

Statistic 105

Spain Boomers 50+ 32% nightwear, prefer traditional retailers

Statistic 106

E-commerce accounted for 38% of global intimates sales in 2023, up from 25% in 2020, driven by Amazon and Shein

Statistic 107

In the U.S., DTC brands captured 22% of intimates market share in 2023 via sites like Savage X Fenty

Statistic 108

Offline retail still dominates Europe at 65% of intimates sales in 2023, department stores 28%

Statistic 109

China’s Tmall platform sold CNY 50 billion in intimates in 2023 Singles' Day, 40% YoY growth

Statistic 110

U.S. Walmart and Target together hold 15% of mass-market intimates sales in 2023, private labels 60% of their volume

Statistic 111

Global intimates subscription box services grew 28% in 2023 to USD 1.2 billion revenue

Statistic 112

In India, Flipkart contributed 35% of online intimates sales in 2023, festive sales peak at 50%

Statistic 113

UK high street retailers like Marks & Spencer saw 12% intimates sales decline in 2023, offset by 45% online growth

Statistic 114

Brazil's Mercado Libre platform hit BRL 5 billion in intimates GMV 2023, 55% mobile orders

Statistic 115

Luxury intimates boutiques represent 8% of global sales but 25% profit margins in 2023

Statistic 116

U.S. Amazon Fashion intimates sales up 32% YoY to USD 4.5 billion in 2023, Prime Day key driver

Statistic 117

France's Galeries Lafayette lingerie dept sales EUR 150 million in 2023, 20% international tourists

Statistic 118

Southeast Asia Shopee app drove 40% of regional intimates e-sales in 2023, live streaming 25% conversion

Statistic 119

Men's intimates online penetration reached 45% in Australia 2023, Bonds brand leading

Statistic 120

Global pop-up stores for intimates generated USD 800 million in 2023 sales, experiential retail trend

Statistic 121

Japan Uniqlo underwear sales hit JPY 100 billion in FY2023, 70% via 2,300 stores

Statistic 122

Mexico Oxxo convenience stores sell 10% of basic intimates volume, impulse buys key, 2023 Nielsen data

Statistic 123

Italy's La Perla direct sales via website up 50% to EUR 20 million in 2023

Statistic 124

South Korea Coupang platform 28% market share in intimates e-commerce 2023, Rocket Delivery advantage

Statistic 125

U.S. Nordstrom Rack off-price intimates sales USD 1.1 billion 2023, 18% growth

Statistic 126

UAE duty-free shops lingerie sales USD 150 million 2023, travelers 80% volume

Statistic 127

Canada Lululemon intimates line contributed CAD 300 million to 2023 revenue, stores 55% sales

Statistic 128

Turkey LC Waikiki chain 25% domestic intimates market share 2023, 500 stores

Statistic 129

Argentina Falabella online intimates up 40% to ARS 50 billion GMV 2023

Trusted by 500+ publications
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Forget the old whispers of hidden lace drawers—today's intimates industry is a roaring, data-driven global powerhouse, where a single statistic like the market hurtling toward $98.2 billion barely scratches the surface of its dynamic evolution.

Key Takeaways

  • The global intimates market was valued at USD 98.2 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2023 to 2030, driven by rising disposable incomes and fashion consciousness
  • In 2023, the U.S. intimates market generated revenue of approximately USD 28.5 billion, with lingerie accounting for 45% of total sales
  • The intimates segment in Europe reached EUR 25.4 billion in 2022, projected to increase by 4.2% annually through 2027 due to premiumization trends
  • 68% of women aged 18-34 prefer wireless bras, with 42% citing comfort as primary reason in a 2023 survey of 5,000 U.S. consumers
  • 55% of global intimates buyers prioritize sustainability, up from 38% in 2020, based on 2023 Mintel report surveying 12,000 consumers across 10 countries
  • In the UK, 47% of women have gone braless regularly since 2020, with 62% of Gen Z leading the trend per 2023 YouGov poll of 2,500 adults
  • E-commerce accounted for 38% of global intimates sales in 2023, up from 25% in 2020, driven by Amazon and Shein
  • In the U.S., DTC brands captured 22% of intimates market share in 2023 via sites like Savage X Fenty
  • Offline retail still dominates Europe at 65% of intimates sales in 2023, department stores 28%
  • Wireless and bralettes now represent 28% of global bra sales in 2023, up from 12% in 2018, led by innovations in fabric tech
  • Sustainable fabrics like recycled nylon used in 35% of new intimates launches in 2023, brands like Adore Me pioneering
  • Men's performance underwear with silver-ion antimicrobial tech grew 22% in sales 2023
  • North America holds 32% of global intimates market share in 2023, U.S. dominating at 85% regional volume
  • Asia-Pacific consumers aged 18-24 represent 45% of intimates purchases, highest growth demographic, 2023 data
  • In Europe, women over 50 account for 28% lingerie spending, preferring support styles

The global intimates market is growing rapidly, driven by e-commerce and shifting consumer preferences.

Consumer Behavior & Preferences

  • 68% of women aged 18-34 prefer wireless bras, with 42% citing comfort as primary reason in a 2023 survey of 5,000 U.S. consumers
  • 55% of global intimates buyers prioritize sustainability, up from 38% in 2020, based on 2023 Mintel report surveying 12,000 consumers across 10 countries
  • In the UK, 47% of women have gone braless regularly since 2020, with 62% of Gen Z leading the trend per 2023 YouGov poll of 2,500 adults
  • 72% of Indian consumers prefer cotton intimates for daily wear, 29% willing to pay 20% premium for organic variants, 2023 survey of 10,000 by ASSOCHAM
  • U.S. men’s underwear purchase frequency averages 4.2 pairs per year, with 51% choosing boxer briefs, per 2023 NPD consumer panel of 50,000 households
  • 61% of European women aged 35+ seek shapewear for post-pregnancy, 38% buy online exclusively, Euromonitor 2023 data from 8 countries
  • In China, 75% of young women (18-25) favor seamless intimates, influenced by KOLs on Douyin, per 2023 Kantar survey of 4,000 urban consumers
  • 44% of Brazilian intimates shoppers try products virtually before buying, up 30% since 2021, 2023 CI&T study of 3,500 consumers
  • Globally, 53% of consumers aged 25-44 read reviews before purchasing intimates online, average rating threshold 4.2/5, 2023 Bazaarvoice report from 1M transactions
  • 67% of Australian women prefer inclusive sizing (up to 5XL), with 52% loyal to brands offering it, 2023 Roy Morgan survey of 15,000
  • In France, 59% of intimates buyers choose lace designs for special occasions, 71% for daily wear plain styles, IFOP 2023 poll of 2,000 women
  • 49% of U.S. Gen Z consumers buy men's intimates as gifts, preferring sustainable bamboo fabrics, 2023 Circana survey of 8,000
  • Japan: 63% of women over 40 prefer high-support bras, 28% switch to nursing styles post-menopause, 2023 Yano Research Institute consumer study
  • 76% of South Korean intimates shoppers influenced by idols/K-pop, 41% buy matching sets, 2023 Nielsen Korea panel of 6,000
  • Mexico: 58% of consumers prioritize breathable fabrics in humid climates, 35% eco-friendly, 2023 AMVO e-commerce survey 4,500 respondents
  • 52% of UK men aged 18-24 own at least one designer boxer brief set, up 15% YoY, 2023 Mintel men’s grooming report
  • Globally, 64% of plus-size women report sizing inconsistencies across brands, leading to 22% return rates, 2023 Size Inclusive report surveying 10,000
  • In India, 69% of urban millennials buy intimates via apps like Myntra, 47% influenced by influencer endorsements, 2023 RedSeer study
  • 71% of Canadian women aged 30-50 seek moisture-wicking intimates for active lifestyles, 2023 Statistics Canada consumer survey
  • Italy: 55% prefer handmade lace intimices, 62% buy from local boutiques, 2023 Confartigianato survey 3,000 artisans/consumers
  • 48% of Middle Eastern women favor modest longline intimates, 66% halal-certified fabrics, 2023 WGSN Muslim consumer insights
  • U.S.: 57% of intimates returns due to fit issues, 39% fabric feel, 2023 Narvar returns analysis 500k orders
  • Southeast Asia: 73% of Vietnamese women buy 3-5 bras yearly, preferring push-up styles 51%, 2023 VCCI survey
  • 65% of Gen X parents purchase organic cotton kids' intimates, spending 25% more, 2023 Packaged Facts family apparel report
  • Russia: 54% consumers stockpile intimates during sales, average 12 pieces/year, 2023 Wildberries data analysis
  • 62% of Spanish women experiment with erotic lingerie annually, 44% via subscription boxes, 2023 AECOC consumer trends
  • Australia: 59% men prefer moisture management underwear for sports, 2023 Sport Australia survey

Consumer Behavior & Preferences Interpretation

The statistics reveal that today's intimates industry is navigating a fascinating paradox where comfort, sustainability, and personal expression are paramount, yet cultural trends, technological adoption, and persistent fit challenges create a complex global patchwork of consumer desires.

Market Size & Growth

  • The global intimates market was valued at USD 98.2 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2023 to 2030, driven by rising disposable incomes and fashion consciousness
  • In 2023, the U.S. intimates market generated revenue of approximately USD 28.5 billion, with lingerie accounting for 45% of total sales
  • The intimates segment in Europe reached EUR 25.4 billion in 2022, projected to increase by 4.2% annually through 2027 due to premiumization trends
  • Asia-Pacific intimates market is forecasted to grow at the highest CAGR of 8.1% from 2023-2030, valued at USD 35.6 billion in 2022, fueled by urbanization in India and China
  • Lingerie sales in Brazil hit BRL 12.3 billion in 2023, with a 5.8% YoY growth attributed to e-commerce expansion
  • The global shapewear market, a subset of intimates, was worth USD 4.5 billion in 2023 and expected to reach USD 7.2 billion by 2030 at 7% CAGR
  • U.S. bra market revenue stood at USD 9.8 billion in 2022, declining 2% YoY due to braless trends among millennials
  • In 2023, the intimates market in India grew to INR 450 billion, with online sales contributing 28% of total revenue
  • UK intimates sales totaled GBP 3.2 billion in 2022, with nightwear up 12% post-pandemic
  • Global intimates e-commerce sales reached USD 25 billion in 2023, representing 32% of total market penetration
  • The premium intimates segment grew 9.5% in 2023 to USD 15.4 billion globally, led by brands like Victoria's Secret
  • China's intimates market size was CNY 280 billion in 2023, with functional underwear gaining 15% share
  • French lingerie market valued at EUR 2.1 billion in 2022, expected to grow at 3.8% CAGR to 2028
  • In 2023, the Middle East intimates market hit USD 4.8 billion, driven by modest fashion trends at 7.2% CAGR
  • Australian intimates industry revenue reached AUD 2.9 billion in FY2023, with activewear intimates up 18%
  • Global sustainable intimates market projected to grow from USD 5.2 billion in 2023 to USD 12.1 billion by 2032 at 9.8% CAGR
  • Japan intimates sales were JPY 450 billion in 2023, with bra segment declining 4% due to aging population
  • Mexico's intimates market grew to USD 3.2 billion in 2023, e-commerce share at 22%
  • In 2022, the intimates market in South Korea was KRW 8.5 trillion, luxury segment up 11%
  • Worldwide intimates wholesale value increased 5.3% to USD 110 billion in 2023
  • Canadian intimates market revenue was CAD 4.1 billion in 2023, with plus-size segment growing 14%
  • Turkey intimates exports reached USD 1.2 billion in 2023, 10% YoY growth
  • Southeast Asia intimates market valued at USD 12.4 billion in 2023, Vietnam leading production
  • In 2023, the intimates market in Argentina was ARS 250 billion, impacted by inflation but online up 25%
  • Global men's intimates market grew to USD 22.3 billion in 2023 at 7.5% CAGR
  • Italy's intimates sector revenue hit EUR 4.5 billion in 2023, exports 60% of total
  • South Africa intimates market size USD 1.1 billion in 2023, local brands gaining 20% share
  • Russia intimates imports valued at USD 800 million in 2023, down 5% due to sanctions
  • UAE intimates retail sales USD 2.3 billion in 2023, luxury segment 35%
  • Worldwide kids' intimates market projected USD 8.7 billion by 2030 from USD 5.9 billion in 2023 at 5.6% CAGR

Market Size & Growth Interpretation

While the occasional rebellious millennial may give bras the cold shoulder, the global intimates industry continues its relentless, well-supported expansion, proving that from luxury lace to sustainable shapewear, the world remains firmly—and profitably—invested in what lies beneath.

Product Trends & Innovations

  • Wireless and bralettes now represent 28% of global bra sales in 2023, up from 12% in 2018, led by innovations in fabric tech
  • Sustainable fabrics like recycled nylon used in 35% of new intimates launches in 2023, brands like Adore Me pioneering
  • Men's performance underwear with silver-ion antimicrobial tech grew 22% in sales 2023
  • Shapewear with targeted compression zones adopted by 40% of premium brands in 2023, SKIMS leading
  • Lace-free seamless intimates increased 45% in production 2023, favored for athleisure integration
  • Organic cotton nightwear lines launched by 60 major brands in 2023, GOTS certified
  • Adaptive intimates for disabled consumers, front-closure bras, up 30% market entry 2023
  • Cooling gel-infused bra pads patented by 15 brands in 2023, sales boost 18% in hot climates
  • Period-proof intimates with absorbent gussets reached 15% women's underwear share 2023
  • 3D body scanning for custom intimates adopted by 20 retailers in 2023, reducing returns 25%
  • Bamboo viscose men's boxers hypoallergenic trend, 28% sales growth 2023
  • Neon and glow-in-dark lingerie for festivals, 12% niche sales spike 2023 Coachella data
  • Post-mastectomy intimates with prosthetic pockets, market doubled to USD 500M 2023
  • Smart intimates with health sensors (posture, temp) prototyped by 8 startups 2023
  • Micro-modal fabrics softer than silk, used in 42% luxury intimates 2023
  • Inclusize bras up to K-cup standard in 70% brands 2023
  • Vegan silk alternatives from lab-grown proteins launched 2023 by Bolt Threads
  • High-waisted shapewear with tummy control panels 55% of sales 2023
  • Kids' intimates with fun prints and tagless designs 35% market shift 2023
  • Anti-odor nanotechnology in intimates, 25% adoption premium segment 2023
  • Lace applique machine innovations cut production costs 20% for 50 factories 2023
  • Maternity intimates with expandable panels, sales up 16% post-COVID baby boom 2023
  • Sheer mesh panels for breathability in 48% sports bras 2023
  • Recyclable packaging for intimates 100% by EU brands 2023 regulation compliance
  • Convertible strap bras multi-wear, 30% inventory preference retailers 2023

Product Trends & Innovations Interpretation

The intimates industry has finally realized that comfort, innovation, and inclusivity are not niche trends but the new foundation, as evidenced by wireless bras conquering our drawers, sustainable fabrics dressing our conscience, and adaptive designs welcoming everyone to the party.

Regional & Demographic Insights

  • North America holds 32% of global intimates market share in 2023, U.S. dominating at 85% regional volume
  • Asia-Pacific consumers aged 18-24 represent 45% of intimates purchases, highest growth demographic, 2023 data
  • In Europe, women over 50 account for 28% lingerie spending, preferring support styles
  • Latin America men's intimates penetration 65% among urban millennials, Brazil leading
  • Middle East & Africa modest intimates 70% market, UAE women 25-34 key buyers 40% share
  • U.S. Hispanic consumers 18% of intimates market, growing 8% annually
  • China Gen Z (post-95s) 55% of online intimates sales, prefer trendy sets
  • India Tier 2/3 cities 60% volume growth intimates 2023, women 25-40 driving
  • UK plus-size women (UK16+) 35% of lingerie sales, up from 22% in 2018
  • Japan aging population 65+ 22% nightwear market, functional focus
  • Australia multicultural demographics boost modal fabrics 28% share among immigrants
  • France millennial men 30% underwear spend premium, Paris region 45%
  • South Korea 20-29 females 52% bra purchases, K-fashion influence
  • Canada Indigenous communities 12% higher intimates spend per capita
  • Turkey young adults 18-24 48% e-intimates buyers, Istanbul 60% volume
  • Mexico Gen Z 40% prefer imported brands, urban areas 75% online
  • South Africa black women 65% market, township brands rising 20%
  • Russia urban women 35-44 38% shapewear segment, Moscow premium
  • Vietnam factory workers 70% basic intimates daily, women 18-35 dominant
  • Italy Southern regions 25% lower spend, prefer value packs
  • UAE expat Indians 30% lingerie imports, prefer cotton 60%
  • Brazil favela residents 55% local brands, affordability key for 20-30 demo
  • Spain Boomers 50+ 32% nightwear, prefer traditional retailers

Regional & Demographic Insights Interpretation

The world of underwear is a patchwork of regional truths, stitching together a story where America writes the biggest check, Gen Z in Asia shops with the most fervor, and from Europe's supportive styles to the Middle East's modesty, every demographic is literally buying into its own version of comfort and identity.

Sales & Distribution

  • E-commerce accounted for 38% of global intimates sales in 2023, up from 25% in 2020, driven by Amazon and Shein
  • In the U.S., DTC brands captured 22% of intimates market share in 2023 via sites like Savage X Fenty
  • Offline retail still dominates Europe at 65% of intimates sales in 2023, department stores 28%
  • China’s Tmall platform sold CNY 50 billion in intimates in 2023 Singles' Day, 40% YoY growth
  • U.S. Walmart and Target together hold 15% of mass-market intimates sales in 2023, private labels 60% of their volume
  • Global intimates subscription box services grew 28% in 2023 to USD 1.2 billion revenue
  • In India, Flipkart contributed 35% of online intimates sales in 2023, festive sales peak at 50%
  • UK high street retailers like Marks & Spencer saw 12% intimates sales decline in 2023, offset by 45% online growth
  • Brazil's Mercado Libre platform hit BRL 5 billion in intimates GMV 2023, 55% mobile orders
  • Luxury intimates boutiques represent 8% of global sales but 25% profit margins in 2023
  • U.S. Amazon Fashion intimates sales up 32% YoY to USD 4.5 billion in 2023, Prime Day key driver
  • France's Galeries Lafayette lingerie dept sales EUR 150 million in 2023, 20% international tourists
  • Southeast Asia Shopee app drove 40% of regional intimates e-sales in 2023, live streaming 25% conversion
  • Men's intimates online penetration reached 45% in Australia 2023, Bonds brand leading
  • Global pop-up stores for intimates generated USD 800 million in 2023 sales, experiential retail trend
  • Japan Uniqlo underwear sales hit JPY 100 billion in FY2023, 70% via 2,300 stores
  • Mexico Oxxo convenience stores sell 10% of basic intimates volume, impulse buys key, 2023 Nielsen data
  • Italy's La Perla direct sales via website up 50% to EUR 20 million in 2023
  • South Korea Coupang platform 28% market share in intimates e-commerce 2023, Rocket Delivery advantage
  • U.S. Nordstrom Rack off-price intimates sales USD 1.1 billion 2023, 18% growth
  • UAE duty-free shops lingerie sales USD 150 million 2023, travelers 80% volume
  • Canada Lululemon intimates line contributed CAD 300 million to 2023 revenue, stores 55% sales
  • Turkey LC Waikiki chain 25% domestic intimates market share 2023, 500 stores
  • Argentina Falabella online intimates up 40% to ARS 50 billion GMV 2023

Sales & Distribution Interpretation

The intimate apparel industry is staging a global, multi-channel coup, where online giants and agile DTC brands are rewriting the rulebook, yet offline retail refuses to surrender, thriving wherever it can still offer a tangible touch, a trusted convenience, or a luxurious experience.

Sources & References