GLP-1s, AI Skepticism and the Search for Value: Inside the New Rules of Fashion Retail

AlixPartners has released the 2026 Consumer Sentiment Index, which reveals a changing retail and apparel landscape. The index, based on a poll of over 9,000 consumers, shows that consumers are demanding sizing consistency, transparent pricing, and engaging store experiences. This shift is occurring as traditional social media shopping models are fracturing.

The findings of the index matter for social commerce because they indicate a need for retailers to adapt to changing consumer preferences. As consumers become more discerning, retailers must prioritize sizing consistency, transparent pricing, and engaging store experiences to remain competitive. This shift has significant implications for social commerce, as retailers must find new ways to connect with consumers and provide them with the experiences they demand.