Skip to main content
BoF Logo

Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.

The Year Ahead: Fashion Executives Brace For Unsettling Times

According to The State of Fashion 2024, a potentially volatile global economy and geopolitical tensions in the coming months could further dent consumer confidence in key markets, requiring fashion brands, retailers and suppliers to bolster contingency planning and double down on operating efficiencies, among other measures.
Men and women shopping on a busy high street.
In 2024, the global economic outlook will likely continue to be unsettled. (Shutterstock)

Please log in to ensure you can read our agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice. Or get in touch at support@businessoffashion.com if you experience difficulties.

Consumers around the world might be mistaken if they believe 2024 will offer a chance to catch their collective breath after enduring a post-pandemic period of turbulence. Universally, slowing growth, new and continued geopolitical conflict, and consumer spending pressures are likely to define economic prospects. And as in previous times, the impacts will likely not be felt uniformly as market responses diverge.

Further Reading

The State of Fashion 2024: Riding Out the Storm

The eighth annual State of Fashion report by The Business of Fashion and McKinsey & Company reveals an industry navigating deep uncertainty. Download the full report to understand the 10 themes that will define the industry and the opportunities for growth in the year ahead.

© 2026 The Business of Fashion. All rights reserved. For more information read our Terms & Conditions

More from Global Markets
A guide to unlocking opportunity in emerging and frontier fashion markets.
view more
Latest News & Analysis
Unrivalled, world class journalism across fashion, luxury and beauty industries.

Can Big Luxury Find Its New Look?

Sex sells — if anyone can figure out what sexy means in 2026. Robert Williams tracks the search for a new silhouette at Kering’s Gucci, LVMH’s Dior and more.


Estée Lauder’s Surprise Acquisition, Explained

The American cosmetic giant’s buyout of Ayurvedic beauty line Forest Essentials came as a surprise. By picking an under-the-radar brand it knows well, the company can show that it’s still in the M&A game without needing to outbid rivals.


VIEW MORE
Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.
CONNECT WITH US ON