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After decades of offshoring, U.S. apparel manufacturing is showing signs of stabilization. While large-scale reshoring remains limited, demand for high-value, fabric-intensive goods such as technical textiles, protective apparel, and small-batch production has helped sustain domestic output. At the same time, consumer preference for “Made in USA” goods continues to influence purchasing behavior.
Surveys show that a majority of Americans place high importance on buying American-made products, and many believe domestically produced apparel offers higher quality. This renewed interest, combined with the growth of direct-to-consumer brands, has fueled expansion among niche producers, contract sewing operations, and specialized textile shops across the country.
From Los Angeles fashion houses to North Carolina textile innovators, the U.S. apparel industry today is a blend of heritage manufacturers and modern specialty producers. Based on verified data collected directly from more than 10,000 apparel and textile manufacturers nationwide, here is a closer look at the structure, geography, and key segments shaping the industry.
According to data collected by MNI, publisher and complier of the industrial data that powers IndustrySelect, here are some key facts to know about the U.S. apparel manufacturing industry in 2026:
The U.S. apparel manufacturing sector remains sizable and diverse.
While not the largest manufacturing segment by workforce, apparel manufacturing remains resilient, supported by regional specialization, contract production, and steady demand for custom and small-batch goods.
Looking for apparel industry manufacturers? Learn more about the Apparel & Other Textile Products Industrial Database, featuring 11,000 U.S. apparel companies and their 23,000+ executives.
Apparel manufacturers operate in every region of the United States, but certain areas maintain a stronger concentration.
The U.S. South accounts for 34% of apparel manufacturers, making it the largest regional cluster. The Midwest follows with 25%, while the Northeast represents 22%. The Pacific and Mountain regions together account for 20%.
These concentrations reflect a mix of historical textile infrastructure, access to distribution channels, skilled labor pools, and proximity to fashion and retail markets.
Below are the U.S. states with the largest concentration of apparel manufacturers.
While apparel manufacturing is often associated primarily with fashion brands and finished garments, the industry’s structure tells a broader story. A closer look at 3-digit SIC codes reveals that much of U.S. apparel production is rooted in contract textile work, specialty fabrication, and niche product manufacturing. From screen-printed promotional goods to marine canvas and industrial textile products, the sector extends well beyond traditional clothing lines. Here is a breakdown of what makes up the industry, based on number of companies:
This is the largest segment by far. It includes textile screen printing, embroidery services, and production of canvas goods such as awnings, boat covers, and industrial textile products. Many companies in this category operate as contract manufacturers serving diverse end markets.
This segment produces shirts, outerwear, and pants for men and boys, often serving both branded labels and private-label retail markets.
Companies in this category manufacture dresses, suits, sportswear, and outerwear. Many operate in close proximity to fashion centers to accommodate design-driven production cycles.
This group includes belts, robes, gloves, and related accessories that complement core apparel lines.
Manufacturers in this segment produce headwear ranging from promotional caps to specialty fashion items.
Other smaller segments include children’s outerwear, suits and overcoats, underwear manufacturing, and fur goods production.
What are some emerging trends in the industry? Let's take a look:
Sustainability, Tariffs & Onshoring: Consumer preferences are shifting towards ethically produced, high-quality, and sustainable clothing. There is a growing interest in fair labor practices and environmentally friendly production methods. Despite the dominance of offshore manufacturing, there is a strong sentiment among consumers for American-made clothing, although the higher cost of domestic production remains a significant barrier. Recent tariff policies are expected to have a substantial impact on the industry. The imposition of a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, along with an additional 10% on goods from China, has led to increased import prices and higher retail prices. The "America First Trade Policy" aims to reduce the trade deficit and counter unfair trading practices, but it has created challenges for U.S. apparel companies that rely heavily on imports, necessitating strategic adjustments.
The Rise of Direct to Consumer Some manufacturers are bypassing retail outlets and selling through their own online stores. This allows a shift toward more personalization. This strategy may require the use of materials and shipping methods more favorable for direct-to-consumer sales. If you deal in logistics or packaging, this trend may offer you a sales opportunity.
Technology Technological advancements are also playing a crucial role in the industry's evolution. Efforts to reshore manufacturing and integrate automation are creating new opportunities, but scaling these initiatives remains challenging due to the complexities involved. Like many other manufacturers, apparel makers are jumping aboard the artificial intelligence (AI) train. They are using new digital resources to streamline operations and develop strategies. If your company provides this type of technology, these companies may be approachable.
The pandemic accustomed many consumers to exercising and working in informal, comfortable clothing. That sparked the growth of Athleisure, a style that works for both athletic and leisure pursuits. These garments include yoga pants and hoodies. This market continues to grow.
To take advantage of any of these trends, you need to reach decision-makers who can act on your proposals. IndustrySelect can help.
Looking for apparel industry manufacturers? Learn more about the Apparel & Other Textile Products Industrial Database, featuring 11,000 U.S. apparel companies and their 23,000+ executives.
Need to contact manufacturers in general? By using IndustrySelect, you can make each contact count. Tap into 360,000+ U.S. industrial companies and identify your best prospects by industry, company, location, and size. IndustrySelect keeps an up-to-date database of executives' names, titles, and all-important email addresses. Set up your free demo account of IndustrySelect, loaded with 500 real company profiles and see how your prospecting field can grow.