2014 is gearing up to be a promising year: Year of the horse. Year of the Sochi Winter Olympics. Year of the World Cup in Brazil. International Year of Family Farming and Crystallography. And these don’t even include promotional products happenings like Power Meetings, trade shows, leadership conferences and countless sales meetings.
Planning for the New Year is important. Sometimes that planning requires reflecting. With that in mind, here are eight apparel-selling tips we received in 2013 to take you into the New Year.
1. Heathers and Brights are Here to Stay
“Heathers and neons … have been selling well because they offer fun alternatives to the basic, classic colors. Classics are great and always in need, but amongst the generation right now we have an eclectic group that likes to stand out, and heathered and neon options offer the choice to be different.”
– Yvette Corona, wholesale coordinator for American Apparel, Los Angeles, in February 2013’s “Tao of Tees”
2. Lightweight Plus Easy-care Equals Golf Sales
“Anything lightweight, breathable and with raglan sleeves (for extended range of motion) are attractive properties for golf apparel. Also, easy care is a huge plus.”
– Kate Souza, public relations specialist for Charles River Apparel, Sharon, Mass., in March 2013’s “Fore! Fashion!”
3. Add Patterns to Basics
“Leveraging patterns and prints allow advertisers to tap into these current fashion trends for their promotional efforts. Because these fashion-oriented items get more repeat wear than the standard white imprinted tee, they translate into increased exposure and a better return for the customer.”
– Kevin Miles, imprintables marketing manager for Alternative Apparel, Norcross, Ga., in April 2013’s “Warming up in Style”
4. Workout Gear Has Moved Outside the Gym
“Activewear is a dominant trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. Now that activewear designs have innovative silhouettes, technology features and vibrant color selections, women are more comfortable taking their active looks outside their fitness regime.”
– Mabel Kwok, director of design & merchandising for Ash City USA, Lenexa, Kan., in May 2013’s “Fierce Femme Fashion”
