Fashion market in Japan - statistics & facts
The Japanese apparel market is among the largest in the world. While traditional clothing remains an integral part of the Japanese culture, the industry has been adapting to Western fashion trends and in turn, setting trends itself. National dresses are nowadays worn mostly at special occasions and ceremonial events, with these garments being worn less often, which in turn has affected the kimono market. Instead, so-called Western-style clothing, referring to non-traditional items such as pants, skirts, and suits, has replaced the traditional garments in everyday life. A major factor influencing the shifting styles are apparel manufacturers and retailers, whose clothing sections are dominated by an assortment of Western clothing.
Additionally, fashion companies such as Fast Retailing’s popular brands Uniqlo and GU are steadily rolling out new styles through their seasonal collections and limited-edition collaborations with popular media, while revolutionizing the apparel market with innovative functional wear.
Fashion brands
Japan is home to large fashion brands catering to the diverse demand of consumers, ranging from affordable casual wear to high-end luxury fashion. Whereas global fashion shows are major trendsetters for the imported luxury fashion segment, local fashion events showcasing casual wear primarily by Japanese brands are directed at the general public. Domestic brands present their newest product lines by partnering with fashion magazines targeted at teens and young adults. Contracted models, who are mostly celebrities in the entertainment industry like idols, artists, and TV personalities, draw a large audience and promote labels through brand endorsement.Additionally, fashion companies such as Fast Retailing’s popular brands Uniqlo and GU are steadily rolling out new styles through their seasonal collections and limited-edition collaborations with popular media, while revolutionizing the apparel market with innovative functional wear.
