The continuing global pandemic has affected both industry and supply chain. We have acclimated to the upset of manufacturing and delivery norms and continue to uphold the product quality and diversity of offerings you expect. At the same time, our customers’ apparel choices have changed as well. Take a look at what we’re seeing as the hottest trends in customized apparel today:
1. OUTERWEAR
Much like the restaurant industry, apparel has had to adapt to consumers spending more time outdoors. With most establishments now offering quality outdoor seating, apparel brands have leaned in on more versatile and stylish outerwear for those cool-weather experiences.
2. PPE IS HERE TO STAY
Face masks are still a big item regardless of mandates and requirements. Aside from the obvious, benefits of using a mask also include mitigating risk during flu season and even keeping pollen at bay during allergy season, among others. Either way, they’ve become a wardrobe staple for some, and consumers will continue to have reasons to seek out comfortable, functional, and fashionable face coverings.
3. COMFORT REMAINS KING
Working from home has also become more commonplace than ever, and will probably remain a norm for many from here on out, as more employees embrace the work-life balance and convenience it provides. Teleworking employees have grown accustomed to working in comfort, but it’s still important to look professional for virtual meetings, which includes a more flexible, casual vibe that’s also presentable. These days, comfort and professionalism are not mutually exclusive, and apparel brands continue to lessen the gap between the two.
4. CONSCIOUS CONSUMERS CONTINUE TO CHANGE THE WAY THEY SHOP
Brands that feature eco-friendly options with socially-minded missions are becoming more standard as companies and individuals embrace sustainability perspectives towards environmentally conscious production, packaging, and purchasing decisions. Since many have cut or eliminated their commutes completely, congestion and air quality have been substantially affected. Consumers identify with the positive environmental impact their collective personal behaviors have made on their health and that of the environment and this is shaping the way consumers see the world and make decisions, including the apparel they wear. We’ve seen that our customers are increasingly interested in buying fewer items, therefore needing the ones they do purchase to be both durable and multi-functional.
Brands like Nau (featured above and below) are blazing the trail in environmentally conscious performance-wear by using sustainable and recycled materials while still delivering a fashionable and high-tech product.
5. CONTRAST AND BOLD COLORS
2021 marked the second time in over 20 years that two colors were chosen as Pantone Color of the Year (“Illuminating” and “Ultimate Gray”). Their stark contrast is embraced as brands and consumers are empowered to push the envelope with their stylistic choices.
Simpler text and designs are a great way to let a pop of powerful color do the talking. Think bright colors on neutral garments.
These bright and contrasting colors offer a refreshing burst of light to any product or gift!
