Apparel spending is weakening as high prices, especially at the gas pump, prompt consumers to pull back on discretionary purchases, with footwear, athletic wear and even core categories like children’s and intimates showing softer growth compared to late February levels.
Key Takeaways
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Discretionary apparel is losing momentum: Apparel is now one of the weakest discretionary categories, with overall growth decelerating by about 2 percentage points, indicating consumers are reevaluating nonessential fashion purchases amid broader cost pressures.
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Footwear and athletic wear are under pressure: Footwear and athletic apparel have seen growth drop roughly 6 percentage points, suggesting early trade-down behavior or delayed purchases as shoppers prioritize necessities over performance and lifestyle items.
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Value channels show signs of strain: Even budget-focused options are slowing, with discount and club channels now flat year over year, while fast fashion’s relative resilience appears tied more to easier comparisons than to a genuine rebound in demand.
