FORGET THE FOUR SEASONS. 2008’s fashion forecast is all about states of mind. Better-cut styles will have wearers exuding confidence. Reinvigorated color choices illustrate newfound energy. Going corporate takes a turn toward the future, while organic looks keep consumers’ feet and thoughts on terra firma. Below, suppliers take stock of their offerings for the industry’s most fashion-friendly new year
in recent history.
“For 2008, we are thrilled to introduce our brand new Missy division, which features basic to fashionable apparel that is cut to fit the everyday woman. Nine new styles will be available at the start of the year.”
—Dean Vuong, vice president, Kavio!
“It took over two years, taking a
million measurements … [and] reworking the fit based on thousands of comments, all to design a new pant, short and skirt pattern that fit all women comfortably … This new design completely changes the style and fit for 45 different pants, skirts and shorts in misses sizes zero to 18 and women’s sizes 18W to 28W.”
—Taraynn Lloyd, marketing director, Edwards Garment
“The demand for comfort is driving our decision to expand the size availability of many products—from big-and-tall sizes for men to maternity styles and longer T-shirt lengths
for women.”
—Margaret Crow, marketing director, S&S Activewear
“We have added turquoise, camel and natural to our color options for 2008.”
—Todd Proffit, marketing manager, Alstyle Apparel
“Bella’s new additions are eco-friendly and retail-inspired. Our organic tanks and tees for men and women are now available in full color!”
—Emily Bertsch, marketing coordinator, Bella
“Sierra Pacific Apparel is now offering winter white in the popular anti-pill poly fleece jackets, pullovers and vests for adults in 2008.”
—Mark Goldwater, sales and marketing manager, Sierra Pacific Apparel
“We’ve added two new styles to our ‘moisture-free’ line that are created using the finest 100 percent combed ring-spun cotton for that sporty look. These styles are perfect for any outdoor corporate event.”
—Ronnie Alschuler, national sales manager, Blake & Hollister
“For 2008, Game has further developed its super-popular moisture-wicking shirt line, which now includes four great polos, a crew-style shirt, as well as a sturdy tee.”
—Les Tandler, executive vice president, Game Sportswear
“Highlights include the addition of new styles to our Page & Tuttle Cool Swing line of on-course performance golf wear; a handsome new addition to the popular Forsyth Freedom wrinkle-free dress shirts; and ultimate piqués from Munsingwear, which offer moisture wicking, stain resistance and anti-microbial protection.”
—Doree Wendling, director of marketing, PremiumWear
“Expect to see great new moisture-management shirts perfect for the office. We’ve got a new, sophisticated short-sleeve and long-sleeve polo accented with subtle piping in great color combinations. We’re also introducing a new pullover available in four colors with graphite blocking and accents.”
—Cathy Billing, marketing coordinator, Holloway Sportswear
“Buffalo Bay … is excited to launch its new 3-D Virtual Presentations as a great visual aid and sell[ing] point for distributors. … [The tool] lets customers see a finished image prior to production.”
—Kelly Holmes, vice president of sales, Buffalo Bay
“The softest T-shirt on the market [from American Apparel] is now available in organic cotton, and dyed with a low-impact, fiber-reactive dye process.”
—Andersson, Atlantic Coast Cotton
“Bella’s new additions are eco-friendly and retail-inspired. Our organic tanks and tees for men and women are now available in full color! Earth tones dominate the color palette in these … 100 percent certified organic cotton styles.”
—Emily Bertsch, marketing coordinator, Bella