PPB March 2018

Bes t Of Expo “Layering, texture and protective qualities top the list of apparel trends worth watching in 2018 and beyond. Consumers are looking for lightweight layers that provide easy options for packing efficiently. Overall, men and women are adding more core styles to their wardrobe but wearing them in dressed up ways for a ‘smart casual’ look. Textural surfaces add a much admired (and instagrammable) tactile quality to otherwise simple sport styling. With activities like walking meetings becoming more common in many corporations, styles that provide functions to protect [the wearer] from the elements, such as UV protection, are in demand.” — Vicky Ostrom , SanMar trend editor (PPAI 110788) “Fashion fabrics such as combed ring-spun cotton with a softer wear are popular, as are lifestyle brands that are casual with an upscale fabrication.” — Holly Bray , outside sales rep at S&S Activewear (PPAI 256121) This two-layer applique design utilizes tech foam as the underlayer to boost, or raise, the logo. “Abstract prints and textures will be big in 2018. Look for modern silhouettes that utilize powerful patterns and unexpected combinations of fabric and color. Decorating techniques that mimic the look of 3D are also in vogue, such as dimensional transfers or design-tech appliques that are raised to look puffy.” — Gina Barreca , marketing director for Vantage Apparel (PPAI 113235) “The skate and surf arena is influencing a move away from lighter fabrics to heavier weights. At retail, allover brand prints and large brand logos are trending... In branded printwear, the Champion brand grew 70 percent last year on the popularity of our retro- inspired Originals collection.” — Rachel Newman , director of sales and marketing for Hanes/ Champion (PPAI 191138) Overheard At Expo Brand new for 2018, this Hooded Sweatshirt Robe combines the plush feel of your favorite sweatshirt with the polish and function of a luxurious robe. Available in gray, this is the perfect corporate gift or hospitality item. Boca Terry / PPAI 254386 / www.bocaterry.com Made with 5.5-ounce ring-spun cotton, the ComfortWash Garment Dyed Tee is designed with a focus on softness, color and printability. A proprietary dye process helps eliminate the messy, unwanted side effects of printing on and owning traditional pigment dyed garments. The result is a vintage, lived-in look with a consistent canvas, a longer-lasting print, no- shrink comfort and a super-soft feel right out of the box. Made with 100 percent American-grown cotton, it’s available in 15 colors and sizes S-3XL. Hanes / PPAI 191138 / www.hanes.com 18 | MARCH 2018 | INNOVATE