Classics are back as British women are becoming tired of fast fashion

As times get tougher, the days of cheap and constantly changing clothes may soon be over.

It hardly seems that long ago when pile 'em high, sell ‘em cheap was the fashion industry's motto. Today, exclusive consumer research from Mintel can reveal that many British women are becoming a little tired of fast fashion. Exclusive consumer research shows that more than one in three British women (31%) cannot justify the cost of keeping up with latest fashions. This is almost as high amongst the affluent AB 35+.

Today there is a growing trend towards better-quality clothes with greater longevity. Indeed, a third of women (34%) would like to see a better mix of classics and new looks in the stores.

Mintel estimates the market for all Womenswear Retailing to be worth £21.2 billion in 2008, which represents 26% growth since 2003. However, growth for 2008 is estimated as slowing to 2.4% year on year. Growing price competition, unseasonable weather, more store openings and slower consumer demand are just some of the challenges facing this market.

But there will still be winners and losers, and above all, success will depend on maintaining a strong brand identity with clear differentiation against competitors.

So, who will be the winners? Click through to the full report to find the answers to your burning industry questions.

Main report themes:

Trading up and buying less and the impact this has on retailers

Squeezing the middle as more value retailers improve their offer and consumers trade up

The need to differentiate at all price points

Consumers’ growing concern about environmental and ethical issues