Consumer Behavior

Sustainable Apparel Consumption: Factors Influencing Consumers' Motivation to Purchase Locally Made Apparel Products

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Abstract

The textile and apparel (T&A) industry significantly contributes to environmental and societal challenges, driving a shift toward sustainable practices such as locally-made apparel production. This study investigates the attitudes and motivations of U.S. consumers toward purchasing locally-made apparel, employing the theory of planned behavior as the theoretical framework. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews with nine participants from a northeastern city in the United States uncovered six sub-themes categorized into three overarching themes: perceived product trustworthiness and appeal, cultural and social influences in value formation, and barriers to access and affordability. The findings reveal that factors such as brand familiarity, generational appreciation, community endorsements, and economic constraints shape consumer intentions and decisions. This study offers valuable insights for local apparel retailers to enhance consumer trust, align strategies with preferences, and address accessibility challenges, contributing to the broader discourse on sustainable apparel consumption and localized T&A production.

Keywords: U.S. consumer behavior, Sustainable apparel consumption, Locally-made apparel

How to Cite:

Hasan, M. & Das, D., (2025) “Sustainable Apparel Consumption: Factors Influencing Consumers' Motivation to Purchase Locally Made Apparel Products”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18664