Top 10 Trends in Wholesale Lingerie & Sleepwear Manufacturing for 2026

The lingerie and sleepwear industry is constantly evolving, adapting to new consumer demands, technological advancements, and shifts in societal attitudes. With the growing emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and technological innovation, the wholesale lingerie and sleepwear market is poised for significant transformation in the coming years. As we approach 2026, several key trends are expected to shape the landscape of wholesale lingerie, wholesale bras, wholesale underwear, wholesale shapewear, plus size lingerie wholesale, and custom lingerie. This article will delve into the top 10 trends that are likely to influence the wholesale lingerie and sleepwear manufacturing industry in 2026.

1. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials

One of the most significant trends in the wholesale lingerie industry is the growing demand for sustainability. Consumers, especially younger generations, are increasingly concerned with the environmental impact of their purchases. As a result, brands are increasingly turning to eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and biodegradable elastics, to produce their lingerie and sleepwear.

For manufacturers, this means incorporating sustainable practices into the production process, such as reducing waste, using energy-efficient machinery, and sourcing raw materials from responsible suppliers. By 2026, it's expected that a large portion of wholesale bras, wholesale underwear, and wholesale shapewear will be made from sustainable materials. Moreover, brands will likely offer transparency in their sourcing and manufacturing processes, allowing consumers to make informed decisions.

2. Inclusive Sizing and Plus Size Lingerie Wholesale

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for inclusivity in the lingerie and sleepwear industry. Consumers no longer want to be confined to a narrow range of sizes, and brands are beginning to take notice. By 2026, it's expected that inclusive sizing will be the norm rather than the exception.

This trend is especially evident in the realm of plus size lingerie wholesale. More and more brands are expanding their size ranges to accommodate a wider variety of body types. Additionally, there is a growing trend toward creating garments that offer comfort and support without compromising on style. This shift is likely to include not only plus-size options but also a broader spectrum of body shapes and proportions, ensuring that everyone can find lingerie that fits and flatters their unique body type.

3. Technological Advancements in Fabric and Design

The lingerie manufacturing industry is experiencing a wave of technological innovation, and this trend is expected to continue into 2026. Advances in fabric technology, such as moisture-wicking fabrics, temperature-regulating materials, and smart textiles, are likely to play a significant role in the wholesale lingerie and sleepwear market.

For example, moisture-wicking fabrics can help keep the body dry and comfortable, while temperature-regulating textiles can adjust to the wearer’s body temperature, providing a personalized level of comfort. Furthermore, the use of smart textiles in custom lingerie is expected to rise. These fabrics may incorporate sensors that track body temperature, posture, or even heart rate, providing valuable data to improve the wearer's comfort and health.

In terms of design, 3D knitting and automated manufacturing processes will allow for more intricate and precise patterns, leading to better fit and durability. This means that by 2026, wholesale bras and wholesale underwear will be more comfortable, functional, and stylish than ever before.

4. Customization and Personalization

Personalization is another major trend in the lingerie industry, and it’s expected to gain even more traction by 2026. Consumers are increasingly seeking products that reflect their personal preferences and individuality. In the wholesale lingerie market, this is likely to manifest in the form of custom lingerie options, where customers can choose their preferred fabrics, colors, and styles to create unique pieces that cater to their specific needs.

Customization is not just limited to aesthetics; it can also extend to fit. With the help of advanced sizing technologies, manufacturers can offer more precise measurements, ensuring a perfect fit for every customer. As a result, by 2026, custom lingerie may become a mainstream offering, allowing consumers to design their own wholesale bras, underwear, and sleepwear.

5. Comfort as a Key Priority

Comfort has always been an important factor in lingerie and sleepwear, but it is expected to become even more critical by 2026. The rise of "athleisure" and the focus on casual, comfortable clothing has influenced the lingerie industry, pushing manufacturers to create garments that prioritize comfort without sacrificing style.

Soft, stretchy fabrics, seamless designs, and wire-free bras are becoming increasingly popular in the wholesale bras and wholesale underwear categories. The demand for comfortable shapewear is also on the rise, with consumers seeking products that provide support without the constricting feeling of traditional shapewear. In response to this trend, manufacturers will continue to innovate in fabric and design to deliver more comfortable, everyday options.

6. Lingerie as Outerwear

The trend of wearing lingerie as outerwear, popularized in recent years by celebrities and fashion influencers, is expected to continue growing in the coming years. By 2026, it’s likely that the line between lingerie and outerwear will become even more blurred, with garments designed to be worn both underneath and as part of a fashionable outfit.

In particular, wholesale lingerie items such as bralettes, corsets, and camisoles are becoming more common as outerwear, often paired with high-waisted trousers, skirts, or jackets. This trend speaks to a broader cultural shift toward embracing lingerie as an expression of personal style, rather than something strictly reserved for private moments. Manufacturers will respond by creating lingerie collections that are versatile and stylish enough to be worn both as intimate apparel and as part of a day-to-day wardrobe.

7. Technological Integration in the Shopping Experience

As we move into 2026, the shopping experience for wholesale lingerie and sleepwear is expected to become more digitized and integrated with advanced technologies. Virtual try-on experiences, powered by augmented reality (AR), will allow customers to "try on" lingerie and sleepwear items online before making a purchase. This technology will give consumers a better sense of how products will look and fit, making online shopping more convenient and reducing the risk of returns.

Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) will be used to offer personalized recommendations based on a consumer's previous purchases, body measurements, and style preferences. This personalized shopping experience will make it easier for customers to find the right wholesale bras, underwear, and shapewear that fit their needs and preferences.

8. Luxury Lingerie and Sleepwear

Luxury lingerie and sleepwear are experiencing a renaissance, with high-end brands catering to an increasing demand for sophisticated, high-quality products. Consumers are becoming more discerning when it comes to purchasing lingerie, and many are willing to invest in premium products that offer superior craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics, and exceptional fit.

By 2026, it’s expected that the luxury lingerie market will continue to expand, with more brands offering exclusive collections in the wholesale lingerie market. This may include limited-edition pieces, artisanal designs, and garments made from the finest silks, laces, and other luxurious materials. For wholesalers, this presents an opportunity to offer high-end, exclusive items that appeal to the growing segment of luxury consumers.

9. Subscription Services and Direct-to-Consumer Models

The direct-to-consumer (DTC) model is gaining traction across various industries, and the wholesale lingerie market is no exception. In the coming years, more brands are expected to adopt DTC models, selling directly to consumers via their websites or subscription services.

Subscription services, in particular, are expected to become more popular in the wholesale lingerie and sleepwear industry. These services allow customers to receive a curated selection of lingerie or sleepwear items delivered to their door each month. This model offers convenience, personalization, and the element of surprise, making it an appealing option for many consumers. By 2026, subscription-based lingerie and sleepwear services may become a mainstream way for consumers to refresh their wardrobes.

10. Global Expansion of Lingerie Markets

As global markets continue to develop and expand, the demand for wholesale lingerie, bras, underwear, shapewear, and sleepwear will increase in regions such as Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa. As these markets become more connected to global supply chains and ecommerce platforms, manufacturers will need to adapt their products and marketing strategies to cater to diverse cultural preferences and body types.

In particular, the demand for plus size lingerie wholesale is expected to grow significantly in these regions, as more consumers seek options that cater to their specific body shapes. Additionally, the rise of ecommerce will make it easier for consumers in emerging markets to access high-quality lingerie and sleepwear products, further fueling the global expansion of the industry.

The wholesale lingerie and sleepwear market is on the cusp of significant change, driven by innovations in sustainability, technology, and inclusivity. By 2026, we can expect to see more personalized, comfortable, and sustainable products, as well as a continued focus on inclusive sizing and diverse body types. Custom lingerie, plus size lingerie wholesale, and eco-friendly materials will be at the forefront of this transformation, while new shopping experiences, such as virtual try-ons and subscription services, will change how consumers interact with brands. As these trends unfold, the wholesale lingerie industry will continue to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs and desires of consumers worldwide.