The US menswear market is changing. Casual wear still dominates overall sales, but formal wear (particularly tailored clothing) has shown steady and incredible growth. Consumer behavior shows a renewed interest in litigation that prioritizes personalization, sustainability and long-term value.
This is not a simple return to pre-pandemic norms. Instead, the revival is driven by a shift in attitude towards investing in clothing, lifestyle milestones like weddings, and the growing role of digital tailoring platforms.
Formal Wear Market Trends
According to Statista, revenues for the US men’s litigation segment are projected to reach $12.8 billion in 2025, up 4.3% in 2024. It’s still below its peak in 2019, but category rebounds are stronger than expected, especially in the post-pandemic era.
The American Apparel & Footwear Association attributes this to some important developments.
- A significant increase in weddings and formal events since 2022
- Increased demand for personalization and better fit
- Consumers transition from first fashion to high quality pieces
- The rise of hybrid and flexible work environments, demand for multipurpose formal casual clothing
The increasing appeal of custom tailoring
When it comes to formal wear, the fit is a top driver that is satisfying. A 2024 report by McKinsey & Company on fashion personalization found that 62% of male consumers aged 25-45 are more likely to return to brands offering tailored or made-to-made services.
This reflects a broader trend. Men are no longer satisfied with standardized sizing or rack-off rack designs. Instead, they want clothes tailored to their physique, lifestyle and taste.
Custom suit Meet this need accurately. Whether it’s daily professional wear or special occasions, custom tailing gives you precise control over fabric selection, silhouette and finish details. Custom garments are considered more economical over time as the cost of reselling and changing mass-produced suits increases.
The modern role of tuxedos
It is often recognized as traditional, tuxedo It remains stable in the male formal wear sector. In fact, demand is diversifying rather than diminishing. Sales data from rental and retail platforms such as Black Tux and Suitshop show an increase in non-traditional tuxedo purchases, including colors such as emerald, deep burgundy and off-white.
This shift coincides with a wider shift in wedding culture. Grooms are no longer the default for classic black tie outfits. Instead, they treat formal wear as an extension of their personal style. Additionally, the groom, the father of the couple, and even the guests, are investing in high-quality suits and tuxedos with plans to listen to them again for future events.
Digital tailoring when rising
The technology also makes custom formal wear more accessible. The online tailing platform offers home measurement kits, virtual consultations and 3D fitting previews to minimize barriers for first-time buyers.
Companies such as Indochino, Proper Fabrics, Hive & Colony report that first-time custom suit buyers are younger, with most new clients turning 28-40 years old.
Key takeout
- The US menswear market has seen a steady return to tailored formal wear, with a noticeable shift towards personalization and sustainability.
- Custom suits are increasingly preferred for both professional use and special occasions due to their excellent fit and long-term value.
- Tuxedos are rooted in tradition, but are rethinked with modern fabrics, colours and styling preferences.
- The changing digital platforms and consumer expectations are helping TaylorMade clothing reach a wider, younger market.
In today’s fashion landscape, formal wear is not declining. It’s evolving. The new standards are flexibility, personalization and purpose.
Source: Equally Wed – LGBTQ+ Wedding Magazine and Wedding Vendor Directory – equallywed.com
