PPB March 2021

by Danielle Renda Bes t Of Expo A Trend Toward Transition E very year, distributors break from the PPAI Expo, traditionally held in Las Vegas, with a much broader understanding of current and upcoming trends in the promotional products industry. Presenting the most innovative details in fabrication, functionality and design, distributors return home with knowledge of new sought-after features to consider for clients’ projects and promotions in the year ahead. And even though this year’s show was held virtually rather than in person, a few trends made their way to the forefront, reflecting growing social movements, popular activities and consumers’ evolving needs. This year, trending themes in apparel for the 2021 year highlighted utilitarian jackets for work and outdoor play; versatile hoodies, including cropped styles; and sharp polos to wear at the office and in Zoom calls, with eco-friendly elements adding a popular twist to almost every introduction. Multifunctional apparel that is rugged, made to last and designed as both workwear and comfortable outdoor wear, are items that companies can present to workers as uniforms or as part of an onboarding package, or for those who partake in outdoor hobbies, such as hunting and hiking, or who work outdoors. Within this trend is The trends in apparel seen at the PPAI Expo Direct-2-You play off styles that accommodate work-from-home and return- to-work, as well as the growing lure of the fresh outdoors. vitaliy_73 / Mosab Bilto / Shutterstock.com. 14 | MARCH 2021 | INNOVATE