Clothing spending drops sharply in September

Household spending on clothing and textiles fell by 5.8% in volume in September 2026 compared to August, according to INSEE. The decline is attributed to the unusual heat in September, which slowed down clothing purchases typically associated with the start of the school year.

Heat impacts seasonal shopping trends

September 2026 was the second hottest September in France since 1900, which INSEE says has disadvantaged clothing purchases. The decline in clothing and textile spending compared to September 2025 reaches 6.6%, and for the entire third quarter, spending decreases by 2.3% compared to the previous quarter.

Goods consumption shows mixed trends

For the entire third quarter, household spending on goods increased by 0.4% compared to the second quarter, with growth mainly driven by energy consumption (+1.2%). Manufactured goods saw a slower increase of 0.3%, while food spending remained stable.

Durable goods and food spending decline

Spending on durable goods declined by 0.2%, with home equipment, particularly household appliances, decreasing by 1.1%. Conversely, purchases of transport equipment increased by 0.2%, largely due to new vehicles. Food spending also showed a second monthly decline of 0.2%, with dairy products, beverages, and tobacco contributing to this decline.

Household confidence declines

Household confidence fell to 80 points in October, down five points from September, according to INSEE. The available statistics indicate a strong decline in clothing sales at the start of the school year, but do not yet allow the evolution of sales in the following months to be measured.