Modeindustrie

Modeindustrie, or the fashion industry, is the global system for designing, producing, marketing, and distributing clothing, footwear, and accessories. It spans multiple segments, including luxury, fast fashion, streetwear, and sportswear, and encompasses textiles, garment manufacturing, wholesale, retail, and e-commerce. The industry involves a wide array of actors, from brand houses and designers to contract manufacturers, logistics providers, retailers, and online platforms.

Geographically, fashion activity centers in Europe and North America, while Asia plays a dominant role in manufacturing and growing consumer markets. Key production hubs include Italy, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and India. The supply chain is highly transnational and project-based, with design decisions often made far from finishing assembly.

Economic and cultural significance is high, shaping trends, employment, and consumer behavior. The business is volatile, sensitive to macroeconomics, exchange rates, and shifting demand. In recent decades, sustainability and labor rights have become central concerns. Issues include water use, chemical management, waste generation, and working conditions in supplier factories. In response, the industry has developed sustainability standards, transparency initiatives, and circular models such as recycling, resale, and rental services, as well as better reporting and traceability.