Global Corduroy Market Description

The global corduroy market represents a distinctive segment of the textile and apparel industry, characterized by its ribbed fabric structure, durability, warmth, and timeless aesthetic appeal. Corduroy is traditionally woven from cotton yarns, sometimes blended with wool or other fibers, and is recognized for its raised “cords” or wales that provide both visual texture and functional insulation. Owing to these properties, corduroy has remained relevant across decades, transitioning from workwear origins to mainstream fashion, casual apparel, and seasonal clothing collections.

In 2025, the corduroy market demonstrated stable performance, supported by renewed consumer interest in retro-inspired fashion, durable fabrics, and natural fiber-based textiles. Fashion brands increasingly incorporate corduroy into autumn and winter collections, leveraging its comfort, versatility, and premium feel. Beyond apparel, corduroy also finds limited use in accessories and niche home-textile applications. Over the forecast period from 2026 to 2036, the market is expected to grow steadily, driven by sustainable fashion trends, rising demand for cotton-based fabrics, and expansion of textile manufacturing capacity in emerging economies.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Corduroy Market

The COVID-19 pandemic had a noticeable impact on the corduroy market during 2020. Lockdowns, retail store closures, and disruptions in global apparel supply chains led to reduced clothing demand, particularly for non-essential and seasonal fashion products. Manufacturing slowdowns and labor shortages further constrained textile production in key corduroy-producing regions.

However, as markets reopened, consumer preferences shifted toward comfortable, durable, and casual clothing suitable for hybrid work and lifestyle environments. This shift supported gradual recovery in demand for corduroy garments, especially trousers, jackets, shirts, and outerwear. Post-pandemic, brands have focused on inventory optimization, sustainable sourcing, and classic fabric choices, which has helped stabilize the corduroy market and reinforce its relevance in contemporary fashion.

Global Corduroy Market Segmentation

By type, the corduroy market is segmented into cotton corduroy and cotton and woolly corduroy. Cotton corduroy holds the dominant share due to its breathability, softness, durability, and cost-effectiveness. It is widely used in everyday apparel such as pants, skirts, jackets, shirts, and children’s clothing. Cotton corduroy also aligns well with sustainability trends, particularly when sourced from responsibly produced cotton.

Cotton and woolly corduroy represents a premium segment, offering enhanced warmth, texture, and comfort. This blend is commonly used in winter apparel, outerwear, and higher-end fashion products. While this segment accounts for a smaller share of total volume, it commands higher value and benefits from demand for premium and seasonal clothing in colder regions.

By application, the corduroy market is segmented into clothing and others. Clothing represents the overwhelmingly dominant application, encompassing casual wear, formal-casual apparel, children’s wear, and fashion-forward seasonal collections. Other applications include limited use in accessories, upholstery accents, and specialty textile products, although these remain niche compared to apparel usage.

Regional Analysis

North America represents a mature market for corduroy, supported by stable demand for casual and seasonal apparel and periodic revivals of retro fashion trends. The region emphasizes quality, comfort, and brand-driven consumption, supporting steady demand for cotton corduroy garments.

Europe follows closely, driven by strong fashion heritage, emphasis on sustainable textiles, and demand for winter clothing. Countries such as the U.K., Germany, France, and Italy play a key role in shaping corduroy fashion trends, particularly in premium and designer segments.

Asia-Pacific is the largest and fastest-growing regional market, driven by extensive textile manufacturing capacity, availability of raw materials, and growing domestic apparel consumption. China and India are major production hubs, while Southeast Asia contributes through cost-effective manufacturing and export-oriented textile industries. Rising disposable incomes and fashion awareness further support regional growth. South America and the Middle East & Africa represent emerging markets, where growth is supported by expanding apparel manufacturing, urbanization, and increasing penetration of global fashion brands.

Key Players Analysis with DROT

The corduroy market is fragmented, with a strong presence of regional textile manufacturers and fabric suppliers. Velcord benefits from specialization in corduroy production and consistent fabric quality, though limited scale may restrict global reach. Laxmichand V Shah & Co leverages regional manufacturing strength and cost competitiveness, supporting steady domestic and export demand.

TCM Textiles and Kailashvivek & Co focus on diversified fabric offerings and customization, benefiting from India’s strong textile ecosystem. KVR Intexx and Sahyog International support export-oriented growth through competitive pricing and flexible production.

Chinese manufacturers such as Changzhou Yueye, Hebei Ningfang, Yixing Leqi, Jiangsu Zijinhua, Anhui Huawan, Huzhou Jiujiu, Jiangsu Chamei Group, and Jiangsu Suoyite dominate global supply through large-scale production, cost efficiency, and strong export networks.

Market drivers include fashion cyclicality, preference for durable natural fabrics, and sustainability trends. Restraints involve competition from alternative fabrics such as denim and twill, as well as sensitivity to fashion cycles. Opportunities lie in eco-friendly corduroy, organic cotton, and premium blends, while threats include demand volatility and pricing pressure.

Value Chain Analysis

The corduroy value chain begins with raw material sourcing, primarily cotton and, in some cases, wool. These fibers undergo spinning, weaving, and specialized cutting and brushing processes to create the characteristic corded texture. Dyeing and finishing enhance color, softness, and durability.

Fabric manufacturers supply corduroy to garment producers, fashion brands, and wholesalers. Finished apparel is then distributed through retail stores, online platforms, and export channels. Value creation across the chain depends on fabric quality, consistency of wale structure, cost efficiency, fashion responsiveness, and supply chain reliability.

Market Outlook

The global corduroy market outlook for 2026–2036 remains stable with moderate growth prospects. Continued interest in vintage-inspired fashion, sustainable textiles, and comfortable seasonal apparel will support long-term demand. Asia-Pacific is expected to dominate production and volume growth, while Europe and North America focus on premium, sustainable, and fashion-driven applications. Innovation in fabric finishes, blends, and eco-friendly processing will further enhance market attractiveness. Overall, corduroy is positioned to remain a resilient and relevant fabric within the global textile and apparel industry, balancing tradition with evolving fashion and sustainability trends.