Need some fashion inspo? Check out our latest blog for six of the top fall/winter apparel trends we’re seeing, including cozy textured fabrications, eco-friendly wear, retro athletic styles, happy tie-dye and yoga athleisure styles. And of course, you’ll love our handy product recommendations.

TREND #1: TEXTURED FABRIC WITH THAT ‘COZY FEEL’

Textured fabrics like Sherpa, brushed heather fleece and micro mink fleece are still in vogue, giving pullovers and outerwear a more elevated feel and higher perceived value. Decorators and distributors should focus on pitching these higher-margin items to buyers.

“Apparel made of textured fabric will appeal to the types of end-users looking for that right combination of athleisure innovation and fashion,” says Catherine Tremblay, senior merchandising manager, Private Brands, at alphabroder. “Brands like Spyder and Columbia have an excellent brand affinity in this space, and can really bring an elevated edge to a company’s branded look.”

Who’s buying this trend: 

• Tech companies
• Energy companies
• Insurance agencies
• Consulting firms

“These styles are popular in industries that have a high level of younger demographics who are looking for on-trend items, and have an active lifestyle,” Tremblay says. “These styles are also great because people in these industries may still partly be working from home.”

Styles we recommend: Check out these styles from cutting-edge brands for modern professionals who want to enhance their corporate identity and promote their individuality.

First up, when you shop Spyder, you’ll see that from mountain to metro, every piece is thoughtfully designed to be comfortable and functional, giving wearers the best experience outdoors and beyond. Show your clients the men’s Passage Sweater Jacket (S17740) and its women’s companion style (S17741), made of cozy Sherpa fleece, with Spyder branding. Pair these on-trend jackets with the Spyder Passage Beanie (S17909), made of super-soft 100% polyester microfleece, with a raised silicone Spyder bug patch. You can also show your client the Yupoong Cuffed Knit Beanie with Pom Pom Hat (1501P), which is made of soft (and easy-to-embroider) 100% hypoallergenic acrylic.

Well-known at retail, Columbia Sportswear is a global outdoor brand that crafts active lifestyle gear fortified by industry-leading technologies and reflective of the brand’s Pacific Northwest heritage and indomitable spirit. Show off the Men’s Rugged Ridge™ II Sherpa Full-Zip Fleece Jacket (1911111), made of 100% polyester Sherpa, with an embroidered Columbia logo on the left chest. We also love the Ladies’ West Bend™ Sherpa Full-Zip Fleece Jacket (1939901), also made of 100% polyester Sherpa with a Columbia logo, has zippered hand pockets and a drop-tail for extra coverage. 

If your buyer’s looking for the softest of the soft, show them the J America Aspen Fleece collection. The Unisex Aspen Fleece Pullover Hooded Sweatshirt (8711), made of brushed heathered fleece with faux suede accents and a pouch pocket, looks great on everyone. The Unisex Aspen Fleece Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt (8713), also made of brushed heathered fleece with faux sueded accents, is great for those who love quarter-zip pullovers. 

Tip: Pair these J America styles with the 50″ x 60″ Alpine Fleece Micro Mink Sherpa Blanket (8712) which has a cozy micro mink fleece face that reverses to luxurious lambs’ wool Sherpa. 

Next Level’s another brand known for its on-trend styles, so show off this ultra-soft Adult Sueded French Terry Pullover Sweatshirt (9304) with tonal drawcords, a ribbed hem and cuffs, and a drop shoulder.

TREND #2: SUSTAINABLE STYLES

With more consumers wanting to do business with companies that sell or use sustainable products, eco-friendly styles will only grow in popularity, whether it’s a recycled polyester fabrication or sustainable manufacturing processes. 

“If you’re selling styles through alphabroder, I’d suggest starting with a talk about our three sustainability pillars that we’ve started to categorize our products into: Sustainable Materials, Sustainable Manufacturing and Responsible Mindset, and what they mean,” Tremblay says. “This way, your buyers can understand that creating a sustainability story for their clients or end-users doesn’t always have to revolve around just ‘recycled polyester’ or ‘organic cotton.’”

Tip: While alphabroder features products composed of recycled polyester, organic cotton and more, we also feature products that are sustainably manufactured and offer a responsible mindset through give-back programs, such as carbon offsetting.

Who’s buying this trend: 

• Automotive
• Health and wellness
• Tech companies
• Food delivery and restaurants
• Alternative energy companies
• Outdoor lifestyle companies

Millennial and younger buyers are especially willing to invest in eco-friendly apparel. A recent Nielsen survey found that while 66% of global consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable goods, a full 73% of Millennials are willing to pay a higher price for sustainable garb.

Styles we recommend: Of course, Alternative is well-known for its commitment to eco-materials and responsible manufacturing, delivering casual clothing that represents any brand well and safeguards the planet. The brand enjoys “A” list status from the Carbon Disclosure Project and has been an Energy Star Partner of the Year for 12 consecutive years. 

New for 2021, the brand released its Eco-Cozy Fleece Collection, made from 77% combed cotton and 23% recycled poly. In case you didn’t know, recycled poly offers a number of eco-benefits, including using 59% less energy to produce and emitting 32% less CO2. It also conserves non-renewables, and diverts PET waste from oceans and landfills.

Here are a few key unisex pieces to pitch from Alternative’s Eco-Cozy Fleece line. (All of these pieces are made from the 77% cotton/23% recycled polyester blend, and have a 100% cotton fabric face for easy printing.) 

The Unisex Eco-Cozy Fleece Sweatshirt (8800PF) offers a classic fit and is relaxed across the shoulder. Another pullover option is the classic-fit Unisex Eco-Cozy Fleece Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt (8805PF), with set-in rib neckband, cuffs and hem band and dyed-to-match flat braided drawcords. Pair these Eco-Cozy pullovers with the classic Unisex Eco-Cozy Fleece Sweatpant (8803PF), with low-profile on-seam pockets and elasticated turnback leg openings.

Alternative’s Modal Tri-blend shirts are also in demand. The fabrication is made of 40% Tencel Modal, 35% USA combed ring-spun cotton and 25% recycled polyester. In case you didn’t know, Tencel Modal is a rayon alternative that’s both pure and natural, and gives these tri-blend shirts an ultra-soft feel and a smooth surface for printing.

Here are some styles to show: The classic-fit Men’s Modal Tri-Blend T-Shirt (4400HM) and Ladies’ Modal Tri-Blend T-Shirt (4450HM) are side-seamed for the best fit. The Ladies’ Modal Tri-Blend Racer Tank (4460HM) and Ladies’ Modal Tri-Blend Raw Edge Muscle T-Shirt (4461HM) are two on-trend styles to show your buyers.

Of course, you’ve also heard of econscious, which designs apparel and accessories that embody the best in sustainable design. Show your buyers the Unisex Hemp Hero Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt (EC5980), made of breathable 55% hemp/45% organic cotton cotton terry in a GOTS-certified factory.

Econscious also offers headwear styles that you can bundle with other sustainable pieces. The 6-Panel Organic Cotton Baseball Cap (EC7025), which comes in natural Charcoal, Oyster and Pacific shades, is made of 100% certified organic cotton. The Washed Hemp Unstructured Baseball Cap (EC7091), which is washed for softness, is made of 55% hemp/45% cotton. Last but not least, the 5-Panel Organic/RPET Trucker Cap (EC7094), which comes in Black/Oyster and Pacific/Oyster, is washed for softness and also made of 55% hemp/45% cotton.

Finally, if you’re looking to show an eco-friendly apron, try the Artisan Collection by Reprime Organic Cotton Bib Apron (RP102), made of 100% organic cotton twill and manufactured using responsibly produced cotton, grown using sustainable practices.

TREND #3: RETRO ATHLETIC COOL

Lately retro athletic styles have been in vogue, with nostalgia-laden baseball tees, letterman and puffer jackets, and trucker hats being popular with men and women. This apparel trend is perfect for organizations and teams looking to promote a strong group identity and provide versatility for everyday wear.

“Athletic apparel is still a big leader in the fashion retail market, so it makes sense that our promo market would echo this sentiment,” Tremblay says.

Who’s buying this trend: 

• Education 
• Healthcare 
• Gyms 
• Teams

“Right now these retro-inspired silhouettes are really going to resonate with consumer-based opportunities, due to their great value and on-trend looks,” Tremblay says.

Styles we recommend: We’re excited to add gear from Russell, an international apparel company specializing in activewear, casualwear and athletic uniforms with over $1 billion in annual sales. All Russell Athletic styles are manufactured using sustainable protocols, and with the commitment to enriching lives for people and communities, which are measured and reported annually by Fruit of the Loom.

Here’s a selection of some on-point Russell Athletic styles to share with your customers.

The Unisex Cotton Classic Long-Sleeve T-Shirt (600LRUS) is made of super-soft heavyweight 100% combed ring-spun cotton, sustainably sourced and grown in the U.S. The shirt is carefully crafted with seamless 1×1 rib collar and cuffs and shoulder-to-shoulder taping, and has an Eagle R logo embroidery patch at the left sleeve hem.

Layer one of these pullovers, both made of sustainably sourced USA-grown cotton, over a favorite Russell Athletic T-shirt. The relaxed-fit Unisex Dri-Power® Hooded Sweatshirt (695HBM) keeps a wearer cool with DRI-POWER® moisture-wicking technology, and has a 2-ply hood with grommets and drawcord and an Eagle R logo flagtag at waistband.

The Unisex Cotton Classic Crew Sweatshirt (82RNSM) has a V-patch detail at front neck an Eagle R logo patch at bottom hem.

Create a head-to-toe look with the Dri-Power® Pocket Jogger (20JHBM) which is made of sustainably sourced, USA-grown cotton and is imbued with Dri-Power moisture-wicking technology. These retro-style joggers have graded inseams, side-entry welt pockets and an Eagle R logo flag tag along the pocket.

Next up, Nautica: With a refreshed take on heritage, established brand Nautica provides high-quality fashion that delivers versatility and comfort, with a multi-generational appeal. These styles also lend themselves for traditional professional buyers who want to create a timeless corporate image and provide on-trend looks with all-day comfort.

Perfect for fall and winter, take a look at these companion packable puffer jackets: the Men’s Nautical Mile Puffer Packable Jacket (N17186) and Ladies’ Nautical Mile Puffer Packable Jacket (N17187). Made of lightweight 100% nylon, these styles are wind resistant and offer Nautica branding on the sleeve and keychain on the front zipper. The take-along design packs easily into its own interior pocket. The ladies’ style has a flattering curved, drop-tail hem.

Just Hoods By AWD’s Men’s 80/20 Heavyweight Letterman Jacket (JHA043), which has a soft cotton-faced fabric for an ideal printing surface, comes in lots of great color combos, like Fire Red/Heather Gray, Jet Black/Orange Crush and Kelly Green/Heather Gray. This versatile jacket also has tech details: an earphone cord feed hidden inside pocket and hidden earphone loops inside the collar.

If you’re new to Team 365, it’s a brand that’s inspired by and created for a team’s unique identity, with sports industry-approved colors. The Unisex Zone Colorblock Raglan T-Shirt (TT62), which maximizes team (or corporate) pride and performance, has  UV 15-39 protection and moisture-wicking properties. These garments use cationic dyes for superior brightness and color-fastness.

If you want to pitch a cap with retro apparel, look no further than Pacific Headwear, which offers an extensive line of on-trend performance headwear. The 6-Panel Snapback Trucker Hat (104C), made of a polyester blend and trucker mesh, comes in a variety of neutrals and neon colors.

TREND #4: ELEVATED WORKWEAR STYLES

Just like streetwear, elevated workwear styles, like work jackets and lined denim shirts, are having a moment, both on the job site and as casual wear. 

“Streetwear fashion has ‘borrowed’ from workwear for several seasons now, making traditional workwear brands well known on the runway,” Tremblay says. “It’s because of this growth in fashion that we see more and more workwear lifestyle silhouettes that have cross-over appeal introduced in our industry.” 

Lots of designers have brought the utility trend back into focus, and the beauty of workwear is that it doesn’t age. You can offer your clients a range of fashion-forward, functional pieces that last from season to season. Plus, corporate buyers will love these timeless, foundational pieces that employees can wear for years.

Who’s buying this trend:

• Food and beverage
• Trade and craftsperson 
• Automotive
• Corporate stores

“End-users in these segments respond well to brands like DRI DUCK and Berne, which offer a thoughtful approach to their assortment,” Tremblay says. “Traditional workwear brands like DRI DUCK are innovating beyond just basic durability that’s been common in these markets in years past.”

Styles we recommend: We advise showing your buyers iconic brands and designs built for organizations looking for value-driven products that offer durability and comfort, with a unified image.

First, up: DRI DUCK, a brand your buyers know and love at retail, for providing functional, durable and comfortable outdoor apparel and workwear. The brand has also quickly become known as one that represents extraordinary styling, innovative fabrics and thoughtful craftsmanship. You can show your buyers a selection of on-trend woven shirts and outerwear.

The Men’s Crossroad Woven Shirt (4441) has chest pockets with flaps, along with a bevy of performance features: DWR finish to repel water; UPF 50+ sun protection; and a vented back with Flex-Mesh™ for breathability and extended range of motion. The Men’s Craftsman Woven Shirt (4450DD), in on-trend colors Gunmetal and Rope, is garment washed for comfort without compromising durability (your buyer will love the drop-behind cell pocket).

The Men’s Field Jacket (5325) definitely protects from the elements, with a 100% nylon waterproof and windproof shell and Storm Shield™ water-resistant DWR finish. The Field jacket also has a full-coverage packable hood with adjustable cord lock and a storm flap with snap closure hidden along the entire length. The Men’s River Packable Jacket 5330DD also comes with the Storm Shield™ water-resistant DWR finish, and is designed as an easy-to-pack jacket with a built-in packable pocket pouch.

The Men’s Yellowstone Dri Flex Canvas Jacket (5055DD) has an inside twill blanket lining and quilted insulated nylon-lined sleeves and on-trend corduroy collar. Wearers will also enjoy the POWER MOVE™ Flex Action underarm gussets and articulated elbows for more freedom of movement.

Next up, from Berne Apparel—which is known for quality, durable and affordable workwear—check out the Men’s Highland Washed Gasoline Jacket (J374), made of 12 oz. super-duty cotton duck fabric and lined with heavyweight fleece. This style has lots of pockets for people on the go: two angled welt pockets; a right-chest zipper pocket; and three inside chest pockets. Even better, this jacket is manufactured in a LEED certified factory.

Another workwear jacket we like is Spyder’s Men’s Diamond Jacket (S17744), made of 100% polyester, with DWR and recycled interior fill. Along with a stylized rib collar and forward-set shoulder seams for a modern fit, wearers will appreciate the branding details, like the raised silicone Spyder bug patch.

Like DRI DUCK, Harriton has a brand heritage of authentic workplace outfitting built for on-the-job comfort and performance requirements in all climates. The fashion-forward Denim Shirt-Jacket (M540), which comes in Dark Denim and Light Denim shades, offers a relaxed fit and functions as a heavyweight work shirt for extra warmth or as a lightweight layering piece for on-the-go.

We also like the his-and-her companion shirts, Men’s Advantage IL Short-Sleeve Work Shirt (M585) and the Ladies’ Advantage IL Short-Sleeve Work Shirt (M585W), which come in Black, Dark Charcoal and Navy. These shirts are made to perform, with a wrinkle-resistant finish and stain-release performance, and be comfortable, with side vents and double-chest pockets with button closures and pen slots.

Harriton also offers ClimaBloc™ headwear that you can pair with other pieces from this line. The ClimaBloc™ Ear-Flap Cap (M802) is lined with warm 100% polyester fleece, and has a water-repellent surface. The versatile ear-flaps can be worn up or down, and the cap is made of stretch twill for a comfortable fit. The ClimaBloc™ Lined Reflective Beanie (M803), which comes in neutral colors as well as Safety Yellow, is made of warm acrylic knit and lined with 100% polyester fleece, with a water-repellent surface and reflective stripe detail.

Finally for businesses that want to offer a fashion-forward apron option as part of the employee uniform, check out the Artisan Collection by Reprime Cross Back Barista Apron (RP129), made of either cotton canvas or on-trend denim. These heavyweight and durable aprons have a cross-back fastener design and dungaree-style buckles.

TREND #5: NOVELTY PATTERNS

Garment dyed and tie dye styles have always been in and out of style, with reinventions from year to year. During COVID-19, tie-dye had a major moment, with patterns from subtle to wild, as designers, celebs and regular folks wore the styles for “happy vibes” and nostalgia for summer camp and music festivals. And that moment is continuing. Now, both retail and wholesale companies offer a range of tie dye styles in loud and neutral tones, and wild and subtle patterns, in T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats and more.

Who’s buying this trend:

• Health and wellness
• Gyms and yoga studios 
• Corporate stores
• Team wear
• Collegiate and sororities
• Festivals and events
• Fundraising

Styles we recommend: Comfort Colors definitely delivers with its modern update on the traditional tie dye swirl with their Color Blast Collection (1745 & 1545CC). The special dye process gives these shirts a bright color that stands out, but are also super-soft and comfortable to wear with the ultra-soft cotton. No two shirts are alike, so they’re as unique as each wearer.

The Tie Dye Ladies’ Racerback Tank (3400) comes in a variety of fun shade palettes like Cotton Candy, Desert Rose, Eternity, Lagoon and Unicorn. The Tie Dye Ladies’ Cropped T-Shirt (1050CD) melds the crop and tie dye trends. This cropped tee comes in the same palettes as the racerback tank, plus a new one: Neon Rainbow.

Guys can also wear tie dye—on their heads. Pacific Headwear, which offers an extensive line of on-trend performance headwear, released the Agua Camo Snapback Trucker Hat (107C), with a structured 6-panel, mid-profile, pro-model crown and curved visor. Mossy Oak Elements Agua uses 3-layer multi-directional prints in shades of subtle black, gray, brown blue and aqua. The Elements logo is part of the Mossy Oak pattern and may appear randomly in different positions on the hat or it could not show at all on some hats.

TREND #6: YOGA LIFESTYLE

With WFH and athleisure styles working for day-to-night lifestyles, it makes sense that yoga lifestyle apparel will continue to be in demand. For these discerning buyers who want stylish athleisure styles that perform, you should pitch trending apparel brands and designs that offer the perfect fashion-forward vehicle for their unique brand or group identity.

Who’s buying this trend:

• Health and wellness
• Gyms and yoga studios 
• Corporate stores
• Team wear
• Collegiate and sororities

Styles we recommend: From vests and leggings to running jackets and accessories the TriDri sportswear range is perfect for every kind of workout and for branding. Here are some styles to show your clients from the new, fashion-forward TriDri by Reprime Collection.

First up is the Ladies’ Yoga Knot Tank (TD042), made of a moisture-wicking fabric, with on-trend details like a scoop next and knot detailing to the back. This flattering, loose-fit tank comes in colors like Hot Pink and Silver Melange.

Layer the Cropped Oversized Hooded Sweatshirt (TD085) over this tank. This sweatshirt, which is manufactured using verified recycled polyester yards, has a cropped, oversized fit and a drawcord fastening at the waist.

Present a head-to-toe look by also showing on-trend bottoms. First up, the slim-fit TriDri by Reprime Ladies’ Fitted Yoga Jogger (TD055), also manufactured using verified recycled polyester yarns, has a comfortable elastic waistband and handy side pockets.

For another option, show full-length leggings. The compression-fit Ladies’ Performance Compression Leggings, which come in head-turning Mulberry and Olive, are made of a soft-stretch fabric and have side mesh pockets. The Ladies’ Performance Leggings (TD531) have a comfort waistband and side pockets.

Another brand we love: Threadfast Apparel is a premium lifestyle brand defined by modern, sleek fabrications that are both innovative and comfortable. Threadfast is a proud member of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI). Cotton products from Threadfast support more sustainable cotton farming. Better Cotton is sourced via a system of mass balance.

We’d like to introduce you to Threadfast’s IMPACT yoga collection of on-trend unisex styles. First, the Unisex Impact Long-Sleeve T-Shirt (382LS), which comes in neutrals like Black Heather and Heather Grey, is made of a lightweight performance fabric designed for movement, as it retains its shape over times. The raglan sleeves and side seam offer an eye-catching silhouette.

The Unisex Impact Polo (382PL), made of the same lightweight performance fabric, has a three-button placket and raglan sleeves.

The Unisex Impact Tank (382T) is another must-have piece from this collection.

To top off these IMPACT shirts, show your clients the gorgeous Unisex Vegan Leather Puffer Jacket (397J) in Black Vegan Leather. Made of 100% polyester, the jacket has a detachable hood with metal snap buttons (the hood also has a detachable faux fur trim). The elastic on the sleeves and waist offer weather protection.

What to Do Today

You can easily take this treasure trove of fashion trends, list of in-demand brands and new styles and create:

• Special pages on your website or in your ecommerce store for customers to browse
• Sales flyers for your customers that drill down by trend, brand or apparel category
• Customized sales presentations for customers that drill down by trend, brand or apparel category
• Sales flyers or presentations that present head-to-toe looks for specific industries, job roles or promotions.

#ABDecoratingTip
Now that you’re busy pitching all these great fall/winter apparel trends, you also want to have great artwork options ready for clients. Whether you have a screen print artist in-house or you contract out, Marshall Atkinson, business consultant at Atkinson Consulting and Shirt Lab Tribe, recommends that your artist should be someone who can generate two or three ideas for a shirt on the fly. “While there’s nothing wrong with using templates, they don’t work for every client,” he says. “For a higher-end or high-volume order, your hook might be that custom art. Remember, the chef who can bake doesn’t use brownie mix. Bring a high level of creativity and professionalism to the artwork experience you offer clients.”

SHOP alphabroder USA,  alphabroder CANADA and Prime Line BRANDS TO FIND PRODUCTS OF THE MOMENT.