U.S. clothing and apparel retailers experienced robust growth in October 2025, as shoppers ramped up spending ahead of the holiday season. According to the NRF/CNBC Retail Monitor, overall retail sales climbed 0.6% month-over-month, with clothing and accessories stores posting a 1.42% increase, signaling strong consumer demand.
“Apparel continues to outperform other retail segments as consumers look to refresh wardrobes for the upcoming season,” said retail analyst James Turner. “The increase reflects both seasonal demand and continued confidence among shoppers willing to spend on fashion and personal style.”
Major chains, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, Gap, and TJX Companies, reported higher traffic and sales, aided by promotional campaigns, loyalty rewards, and omnichannel options such as buy-online-pick-up-in-store (BOPIS). Fast-fashion retailers like H&M and Shein also benefited from aggressive digital marketing and competitive pricing.
Annualized data shows that U.S. apparel sales surged nearly 7.9%, a trend supported by consumers seeking convenience, discounts, and a broader variety of clothing choices. Analysts highlight the growing importance of mobile commerce, with shoppers increasingly browsing, comparing, and purchasing via apps and online platforms.
Retailers are also experimenting with hybrid strategies to boost engagement. Examples include limited-time collections, in-store experiential displays, and partnerships with influencers to generate social media buzz. These efforts are particularly effective with younger demographics, who value both affordability and brand relevance.
“Fashion retail is now as much about experience and engagement as it is about product,” Turner said. “Retailers that seamlessly integrate physical and digital channels while offering compelling promotions are capturing the bulk of pre-holiday spending.”
As the holiday shopping season intensifies, clothing and apparel retailers are positioning themselves to capitalize on strong consumer appetite, leveraging data, loyalty programs, and omnichannel capabilities to maximize sales.