PPB November 2016

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ac t i vewea r
Q What’s trending in the world of
activewear today, and what do
you see being popular in 2017?
A Color-wise, there are a lot of royal
blue, hot pink, and primary color
shades such as yellow and red
trending in activewear. In 2017,
I see olive green being a more
predominant color in the market,
especially when paired with berry
shades in women’s wear. Also,
there will be a big push for indigo,
and an offshoot of this will be
different variations of teal and jade.
As far as fit, the trend is moving
towards new fabrications and
technologies being implemented.
Women especially are appreciating
styles with easier/looser silhouettes
(i.e. more draping and away
from the body) for layering,
which can then transition into
pieces worn outside the gym.
Q What technological innovations
have been particularly
impactful this year or do you
foresee being impactful in the
upcoming year?
A A technological innovation such
as Nobitech™, which protects
the wearer from insect bites
(including the Zika virus) has
been particularly impactful
this year. Other technological
advances in fabrications include
improved hand-feel and drape,
as well as true performance
qualities such as antimicrobial,
moisture-wicking properties, etc.
Q What’s important for
distributors to keep in mind
when choosing activewear to
recommend to their clients?
A Keeping in mind who the initial
target customer is and what their
inherent needs are with relation to
price point is definitely important.
The longevity of the performance
apparel piece in the market is also
critical to understand: Will this piece
be something that will go out of style
soon? Or will it be a volume-drive
piece that will carry on and continue
to be reordered? There is usually
a fine balance between newness
and a comfort level of familiarity.
Q Is there anything else
that would be important
for distributors to know
about activewear?
A I think in a saturated market like
activewear, where everyone is
trying to zone in on the next trend,
it is more impactful to think about
the overall versatility of the piece
and its multiple end uses by the
consumer. Not only are individuals
wearing performance gear to the
gym, but the piece now needs to
be suitable for after the workout as
well, as everyone wants to look their
best while going shopping, meeting
up with a friend for coffee, etc.
All About
Activewear
PPB Talks With Expert Brand
Designer Leah Hulon
The Sport-Tek® long-sleeve,
heather Contender Tee
offers moisture-wicking, snag
resistance and breathability
at a value price. Made of
3.8-ounce, 100-percent
polyester jersey, the shirt
features set-in sleeves and
a removable tag for comfort
and relabeling. It can be
machine washed (no bleach
or fabric softener), tumble
dried on low and printed
using the usual special care
required by 100-percent
polyester performance
fabrics. Colors include
graphite, true navy, royal blue
and vintage heather and it
comes in adult sizes XS-4XL.
Transfer Express
16 | NOVEMBER 2016 |
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