Spring retail in Russia is shaping up as shoppers respond to price changes tied to brands stepping back from Russia. A recent joint survey by ResearchMe and the Yula and VKontakte Announcements platforms reveals a strong intention among Russians to refresh wardrobes and living spaces for the new season.
The survey, conducted by ResearchMe in collaboration with Yula and VKontakte Announcements, explores springtime plans for updating wardrobes and home interiors. It finds that a substantial majority, about 79%, expect to purchase new items by springtime. This signals a broader consumer effort to realign style and utility with evolving budgets, even in the face of higher costs tied to brand withdrawals.
Among those surveyed, 79% express a commitment to overhaul their wardrobes and bid farewell to older pieces. The attending press representatives note that the predominant respondents are women, a share that tends to be higher among women than men in the sample. The dynamics of the numbers reflect a mix of practical needs and personal style enhancements as the season shifts.
Seasonal clothing rises to the top of shopping lists, with a notable 26% planning a capsule wardrobe for spring. A quarter of respondents aim to add items for sports and active recreation, while 19% seek to expand their basic wardrobe with new staples. Around 18% are eyeing premium items that mark a step up in taste or quality. These patterns illustrate a balanced appetite for fresh essentials and few splurges as warmer days approach.
In addition to purchasing, a striking 79% of Russians report plans to declutter and reorganize their spaces. The vast majority, about 92%, intend to give old items a second life rather than simply discard them. Ideas for reuse include sharing with friends (roughly 43%), donating to charities (about 36%), delivering items to second-hand shops (around 17%), and even selling possessions (roughly 15%). This behavior underscores a conscious approach to consumption, where value is preserved through reuse and redistribution.
Industry observers note that these intentions may intersect with broader financial considerations and a growing emphasis on practical, sustainable choices. The data reflects a consumer mindset that weighs the cost of new purchases against the opportunity to refresh looks through existing pieces, swaps, and resale avenues. As social platforms continue to influence fashion trends and bargain hunting, the spring season appears to be a critical juncture for households to balance aspiration with budgetary realities.
Earlier industry commentary highlighted that many households were already budgeting for repairs and upgrades beyond initial plans, indicating a dynamic environment where spending is carefully calibrated against available funds and perceived value. In this climate, the focus on capsule wardrobes, athletic gear, and structured basics reveals a strategic approach to seasonal shopping that blends utility, style, and financial prudence.
End users and observers alike can expect continuing activity on resale channels and charitable contributions as part of a broader shift toward extending the life of clothing and goods. This trend aligns with a growing cultural emphasis on mindful consumption and the social benefits of sharing and giving materials a second life. The momentum around spring updates appears to be shaped by both personal preferences and the evolving retail landscape.
Sources: ResearchMe, Yula, VKontakte Announcements.