![Both consumers and brands can leverage these changes to create more personalized, sustainable, and meaningful fashion experiences. Both consumers and brands can leverage these changes to create more personalized, sustainable, and meaningful fashion experiences.](https://images.news18.com/ibnlive/uploads/2021/07/1627283897_news18_logo-1200x800.jpg?impolicy=website&width=510&height=383)
Both consumers and brands can leverage these changes to create more personalized, sustainable, and meaningful fashion experiences.
As technology advances and sustainability concerns grow, customization is more accessible and scalable than ever.
In the ever-evolving fashion industry, customization is becoming the new standard, allowing individuals to express their unique personality through personalized clothing. This trend is especially evident given the growing popularity of custom socks and underwear. Insights from industry leaders Bhavna V, Harsh Saraf and Kapil Pathare highlight why these trends are gaining traction and how they are shaping the future of fashion.
The emergence of custom socks
Bhavna V, co-founder of Nysh.in, says the craze for custom socks stems from the desire for self-expression and individuality. “Customization has become the new standard in the fashion industry, and the world of socks is no exception. “Customized socks are quickly gaining popularity as they cater to individuals who want to express their unique personality through their footwear choices.”
People are no longer satisfied with generic, mass-produced designs. Instead, they crave socks that reflect their interests, passions, and even jokes. From whimsical patterns and vibrant colors to custom printed images or messages, the possibilities are endless. This trend goes beyond fashion as custom socks are making their way into the corporate world as well. Companies now create branded socks with logos or witty slogans to encourage camaraderie and brand loyalty among employees and customers alike.
Thermal or insulated socks have become a popular choice for those seeking both comfort and style in cold climates. Using premium materials like merino wool or synthetic blends, these specialty socks wick moisture while providing superior warmth. Some even incorporate technologies such as heat-reflective linings or built-in heating elements to ensure maximum warmth and coziness. Travelers to colder regions can now enjoy stylish socks that match their personal style while providing the warmth and comfort they need.
Growing demand for custom socks
SuperSox director Harsh Saraf points out that the demand for custom socks has steadily increased over the past 16 years. “Demand for custom socks has steadily increased over the past 16 years. Long gone are the days when socks were just a companion to shoes. Individuality is an essential part of the world we live in, which further amplifies the need for personalized products.”
Socks have become an expression and an extension of personality. It could support your favorite sports team, resonate with a pop culture character, serve as a reminder of an inside joke, or even pay homage to your pet. This trend has also been observed in Western markets, where consumers are increasingly conscious of their purchasing power and prefer eco-friendly, sustainable and socially responsible products. Compression socks are gaining popularity due to their potential to improve circulation and relieve swelling.
A creative trend is also emerging in socks. For example, some people have begun incorporating socks into their hairstyles, and football player Jude Bellingham's practice of cutting holes in the calves of his socks has inspired fans to emulate the look. Socks are also popular as stocking stuffers or personalized gifts, and companies use them to build deeper relationships with employees or as promotional items that create long-lasting brand recall.
Innerwear customization trend
Kapil Pathare, Director, VIP Clothing Ltd. highlights the shift towards customization in the underwear market. “We are moving in a direction where innerwear is not just about comfort, but also about self-expression. People want underwear that reflects who they are: their style, comfort preferences, and unique identity. Customization is the best way for brands to meet this need because it gives individuals the freedom to choose clothing that fits their aesthetic.”
For consumers, personalization is synonymous with empowerment and authenticity. This allows individuals to move away from mass-produced options and create pieces that feel truly ‘you’. Whether you choose the perfect fabric, fit, or design detail, customization allows individuals to take ownership of their style journey and feel confident in their own skin.
As technology advances and sustainability concerns grow, customization is more accessible and scalable than ever. Brands can now offer personalization while minimizing environmental impact, and shift to a demand-driven approach where clothing is produced according to specific customer requests and preferences. Not only does this benefit consumers, it also helps brands build stronger relationships with customers, increasing loyalty and engagement. Personalization provides valuable insight into consumer preferences, helping brands stay ahead of trends and give customers exactly what they want.
As the customization craze continues to sweep across the fashion industry, custom socks and innerwear have carved out a niche for themselves. This trend gives individuals the opportunity to showcase their unique personality while enjoying comfort and functionality. Whether it's custom socks that make a bold fashion statement or custom underwear that reflects your personal style, customization is redefining the future of fashion. Both consumers and brands can leverage these changes to create more personalized, sustainable, and meaningful fashion experiences.