The global maternity apparel market was estimated at USD 22.46 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.88% during 2023-2033 to reach USD 36.17 billion in 2033.
The maternity apparel market caters to the unique clothing needs of expectant mothers, providing a range of comfortable and stylish options during pregnancy. Evolving within the broader fashion and retail sector, maternity wear focuses on addressing the changing body shapes of pregnant women while combining both fashion and functionality. With a surge in demand for diverse and trendy clothing options that empower expectant mothers, this sector emphasizes comfort and style, offering everything from casual wear to formal attire.
Maternity apparel is distinguished by its specialized design, featuring stretchable fabrics, adjustable waistbands, and strategic tailoring for a comfortable and flattering fit. Tops, dresses, bottoms, and outerwear are adapted to accommodate a growing belly without compromising on style. These garments often prioritize easy nursing access postpartum, incorporating discreet openings or designs to facilitate breastfeeding. The use of breathable and soft materials is common, enhancing comfort and supporting the changing needs of expectant mothers. As the industry continues to grow, it aims to redefine traditional notions of pregnancy fashion by offering a diverse array of choices, allowing women to feel confident and stylish throughout their maternity journey.
The growth of the maternity apparel market is propelled by various factors. Increasing emphasis on women's empowerment and body positivity has created a demand for fashionable and comfortable maternity wear, allowing expectant mothers to express their styles. Additionally, a heightened awareness of prenatal and postpartum well-being, coupled with globalization and e-commerce, has broadened access to diverse maternity apparel options.
However, the industry faces constraints, including economic uncertainties impacting consumer spending on non-essential items and changing demographics affecting overall demand. Environmental sustainability concerns also present challenges, urging the industry to address eco-friendly and ethical fashion choices.
Growth opportunities include tapping into the evolving maternity apparel market landscape with a focus on inclusivity and diversity in fashion. Collaborations with influencers and healthcare professionals can enhance brand visibility and trust. Yet, challenges persist in adapting to changing consumer preferences, global economic shifts, and the demand for sustainability.
Technological advancements offer promising prospects. Smart textiles and wearable technology integration could provide valuable health monitoring data for pregnant women. Innovations in 3D printing and body scanning technologies can enhance customization, ensuring a better fit for maternity apparel. Embracing these advancements positions the industry for innovation and continued growth.
Several investments/guidelines in the maternity apparel market have been directed in recent years, which would boost the maternity apparel market. Some of them are:
• With the rise of online shopping, many maternity apparel brands have invested in developing or revamping their e-commerce platforms to cater to the growing demand for convenient shopping experiences. This has led to improved online presence, better product offerings, and enhanced customer service. Destination Maternity Corporation (now owned by Marquee Brands) revamped its e-commerce platform in 2020, offering a more user-friendly experience and expanded product range. ASOS, a popular online fashion retailer, has a dedicated maternity section with a wide range of stylish and affordable options.
• There has been a growing emphasis on sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices in the maternity apparel industry. Brands are investing in eco-friendly materials, fair labour practices, and transparent supply chains to appeal to conscious consumers and align with environmental and social responsibility goals. H&M has launched a sustainable maternity collection made from more environmentally friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester. Boob Design, a Swedish maternity brand, prioritizes ethical manufacturing practices and fair labour conditions in its supply chain.
• As body positivity and inclusivity become more prevalent, maternity apparel brands have recognized the need to cater to plus-size expectant mothers. Investments have been made in designing and manufacturing stylish and comfortable plus-size maternity wear to meet the diverse needs of customers. Old Navy has introduced a dedicated plus-size maternity line, offering fashionable and comfortable options up to size 30. PinkBlush, an online maternity retailer, offers a wide range of plus-size maternity clothing, including dresses, tops, and bottoms.
• In many countries, governments have implemented initiatives and guidelines to encourage breastfeeding-friendly workplaces. This has led to an increased demand for maternity apparel that accommodates nursing, such as nursing-friendly tops and dresses. In the United States, the Break Time for Nursing Mothers law requires employers to provide reasonable break time and a private space for nursing employees to express milk. In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 protects breastfeeding mothers from discrimination in the workplace.
The maternity apparel market is segmented based on product type, material type, distribution channel, price range, and region.
In terms of product type, the market is divided into outerwear, innerwear, and nightwear. Outerwear is expected to hold the dominant share due to the increasing demand for fashionable and comfortable maternity clothing that can be worn for various occasions. Brands like Seraphine and Ingrid & Isabel have gained popularity for their stylish outerwear options, such as dresses, tops, and jackets.
When it comes to material type, the market is bifurcated into cotton, nylon, polyester, synthetic, spandex, and other material types. Cotton and synthetic fabrics might continue to have a significant share as they offer breathability, comfort, and stretch, which are essential for maternity wear. Brands like H&M and ASOS have embraced the use of cotton and synthetic blends in their maternity collections.
Regarding distribution channels, the market consists of wholesalers/distributors, hypermarkets/supermarkets, specialty stores, multi-brand stores, and online retailers. Online retailers have emerged as the dominant segment due to the convenience and accessibility they offer expectant mothers and are likely to continue their influence. E-commerce platforms like Destination Maternity Corporation and PinkBlush have seen a surge in demand, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In terms of price range, the maternity apparels are priced below US$ 100, US$ 100 - US$ 200, US$ 200 and above. The below US$ 100 segment is likely to hold the largest share as many expectant mothers seek affordable yet trendy options. Fast-fashion retailers like Old Navy and Target have capitalized on this demand by offering budget-friendly maternity wear.
The maternity apparel market is spread across various regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World. North America and Europe have traditionally dominated the maternity apparel market, driven by factors such as higher disposable incomes, greater brand awareness, and a focus on fashion and comfort. However, Asia-Pacific is rapidly emerging as a significant market, fuelled by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and changing consumer preferences.
The maternity apparel market is highly competitive, with the presence of numerous international and local players. The competitive landscape is characterized by intense rivalry among established brands as well as the entry of new players seeking to capitalize on the growing demand for fashionable and comfortable maternity wear. Several factors contribute to the intense competition, including product innovation, brand recognition, pricing strategies, and the ability to cater to evolving consumer preferences.
In recent years, the market has witnessed several merger and acquisition deals as companies strive to expand their product portfolios, geographical reach, and market share. For instance:
• Destination Maternity Corporation, a leading maternity apparel retailer with over 1,100 retail locations across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, was acquired by Marquee Brands for $197 million in the year 2019. This acquisition allowed Marquee Brands to strengthen its presence in the maternity apparel segment and leverage Destination Maternity's extensive retail network and brand recognition.
• In 2021, Gap Inc., a global apparel retailer, acquired Intermix, a multi-brand retailer that offers a curated selection of maternity clothing and accessories for $130 million. This acquisition aimed to bolster Gap Inc.'s product offerings and reach a broader customer base, including expectant mothers seeking premium maternity wear.
The key players in the global maternity apparel market include:
• Seraphine
• Ingrid & Isabel
• H&M
• ASOS
• Gap
• Blanqi
• Boob Design
• PinkBlush Maternity
Maternity Apparel Market Scope:
Report Data | Maternity Apparel Market |
Maternity Apparel Market Forecast Value 2033 | 36.17Billion |
Maternity Apparel Market CAGR 2023 - 2033 | 4.88% |
Maternity Apparel Market Forecast Period | 2023 - 2033 |
Maternity Apparel Market Base Year | 2022 |
Regional Scope | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and Middle East & Africa |
Key Companies Profiled | Seraphine, Ingrid & Isabel, H&M, ASOS, Gap, Blanqi, Boob Design, PinkBlush Maternity, Others. |
Key Segments | By Product Type Outerwear Innerwear Nightwear By Material Type Cotton Nylon Polyester Synthetic By Region North America Europe Asia-Pacific South America Middle-East & Africa |
Report Coverage | Market Sizing, Market Forecasting, Market Dynamics, Market Trends, Market Development Analysis, Market Share Analysis, Regional Analysis, Competitive Positioning, Competitive Benchmarking, Competitive Landscape, Company Profiling, Regulation Analysis, etc. |
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