The trend towards relaxed clothing, like sneakers and sweatpants, is reversing as consumers rediscover the joy of dressing up. This shift is evidenced by catwalk designs, social media trends, and increased retail sales of more sophisticated clothing and footwear. This change in consumer preference has significant implications for investors in the apparel and footwear sectors, as brands that can adapt to this demand for more formal wear are likely to benefit.
This isn't a return to traditional, rigid business suits, but rather an embrace of modern tailoring that is softer, more versatile, and less corporate. Blazers are being paired with relaxed trousers, denim, or knitwear. Loafers and refined sneakers are coexisting with formal shoes, and shirts are often worn open-necked. Lightweight jackets and unstructured tailoring allow for a dressed-up appearance without being overtly ceremonial. Double-breasted suits, previously associated with a country club aesthetic, are making a comeback with a younger, fresher vibe.
Evidence of this shift is visible in retailer performance. John Lewis reported a 68% year-on-year increase in its own-brand suit sales, and a 584% rise in formal outerwear sales in 2025. Marks & Spencer sold 37,500 suits priced at $120 in a single month, marking an 18% increase over two years. Ralph Lauren, a key beneficiary of this trend, reported first-quarter fiscal 2027 revenue of almost $2 billion, a 14% increase on a reported basis, with North American sales up 13% and Asia sales climbing 24%, including over 40% growth in China. This resurgence is fueled by a broader return to offices and a changing perception of professional attire among younger consumers, extending beyond work to social occasions, travel, restaurants, and hotels.
The broader UK clothing market is projected to reach an estimated $67.8 billion in 2025, with menswear, valued at $20.6 billion in 2024, expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 4.84% through 2033. Tailoring is contributing significantly to this growth. Retailers are encouraged to consider how their suit price points reflect demand, and how their formal ranges cater to hybrid-office customers who need suits suitable for both work and social events. The market is splitting, with distinct needs for corporate sectors versus creative industries, necessitating varied product lanes and price points.
Ultimately, while the suit may not return in its exact old form, there is a clear and growing desire among consumers to dress deliberately and distinctively. This trend is reinforced by recent runway collections featuring slimmer menswear silhouettes, refreshed tuxedo shapes, and renewed emphasis on classic wardrobe components, all while experimenting with traditional styles rather than discarding them.
