PPB September 2018

| SEPTEMBER 2018 | 15 INNOVATE Headwear To Top Off Your Promotions From armor helmets and headdresses to fedoras and cowboy hats, headwear has always walked the line between status symbol and protector from the elements. As current fashions shift more toward street style, beanies, caps and athletic headbands are dominating the market. A recent Wall Street Journal article noted the ubiquity of ball caps, even among luxury brands. For example, Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Balenciaga all offer high-end caps. As more Millennials become parents, the low-profile, close-fitting dad hat has become a popular suburban look. “We’re noticing that older trends are coming back in style, like dad hats instead of snapbacks,” says Kevin Johnstone, director of marketing for FPS Apparel (PPAI 273314). “Our customers like that they can customize a variety of components on hats, such as woven tags and custom brims,” he adds. Gary Mosley, vice president of Kati Sportcap & Bag (PPAI 113758), notes that a younger, edgier crowd may prefer a trucker or hipster style. “Trucker hats, like our Richardson hat, are dominating the market,” he says. “We foresee products like these to remain at the height of headwear trends due to their variety of colors, overall quality and universal popularity.” Women like the look and functionality of a ball cap, too, particularly in the U.S. Unless they’re heading to the Kentucky Derby or a viewing party for the latest royal wedding, American women sporting head coverings are likely to be wearing athletic caps or headbands to complement their other athleisure pieces. “Headwear is a great promotional item, as most styles are reasonably priced and very visible,” says Mosley. “I always tell distributors to tell their customers, ‘Make sure you’re offering a cap that will be worn. What use is a promotional cap if it’s in someone’s closet?’” The Crosby Corduroy Hat is a unique and trendy “hipster” hat with an adjustable snapback, six-panel structured fit and flat brim lid. The hats are available with multiple patch options and decoration methods. Choose navy or black. Origaudio / PPAI 421483 www.origaudiopromo.com Look great and stay cool during your next workout with the Endurance Headband . Made in the USA, it features full customization and unlimited colors, making it a perfect addition to any fitness-related promotion. FPS Apparel / PPAI 273314 www.fpsapparel.com Top off your sports and spectator offerings in style and comfort with the Sport-Tek PosiCharge Competitor Cotton Touch Slouch Beanie . The 100 percent spun- polyester jersey brings moisture- wicking, lightweight breathability to this on-trend headwear basic. Offered in black, dark smoke gray, true navy and true royal PMS colors. Transfer Express / PPAI 690341 www.transferexpress.com