Workforce Report 2021: How Remote Work Is Changing Business Forever—a report by freelancing platform Upwork—40.7 million Americans are projected to work remotely by 2025, which is more than double the number of pre-pandemic remote workers. The home-wear market, which has shaped into a mix of loungewear and activewear that would be considered “Zoom-appropriate”—hence, “upgraded” lounge and playwear. When not on their webcams, consumers are happier than ever to throw on sweats, make some popcorn and cozy up inside with a good movie from the endless scroll of Netflix or other streaming platforms. When millions of people first quarantined at home, many of them sought new ways to keep busy and active, experience a sense of adventure and find peace of mind—and this quest led them to the great outdoors. By now, most of us have discovered new outdoor activities we enjoy, from running, hiking and camping, to fishing, rock climbing and nature photography. However, the majority of people could benefit from an option that’s also wearable enough for every day. Consumers are searching for functional solutions to encourage continued activity and help them to meet and exceed personal and fitness goals. Brands are seizing the opportunity to take their impact a step further by partnering with nonprofits dedicated to environmental action. Continued education and awareness on diversity and inclusivity, coupled with the blurring lines of gender, has led to an increased call for gender-fluid fashions. Allowing brands to design clothing for all consumers and body types, rather than targeting a specific gender, is not a “trend,” but likely here to stay. Also referred to as “genderless” or “unisex” fashion, gender-fluid collections feature items that extend beyond track suits and hoodies, and also include skirts and dresses. Given the unique social climate we’re in and the opportunity for brands to connect with new consumer pools, some suppliers on the show floor tapped the magic of loud, in-your-facing branding—in a most fashionable way, of course. Allover dye-sublimated clothing was a technique first made popular in the ’90s, but it’s one that produces designs that are vibrant and permanent, and thus have the potential to be memorable. And according to show floor exhibitors, it’s back in a bigger, more vibrant way this year. Read on for a selection of trending wearables seen at The PPAI Expo this year. All In Good Fashion The All Weather Jacket provides recipients with functional outerwear that celebrates your client’s brand year-round. Windproof, waterproof and breathable, this nylon jacket, with a minimum order quantity of one, can be customized to your recipients’ particular needs and preferences. Useful year-round, choose to add on a removable hood or right and/or left chest pockets, and select from various fit options: ultra-slim to ultra-full, and short, regular, or long length. Available in 21 colors and in inclusive sizing, men’s XS-5XL and women’s XXS-4XL. Hexa|Custom / PPAI 767010, S1 / www.hexacustom.com The Original MAX Hat is available for a 30-day turnaround, and is a unisex option for everyday use and all types of weather. Available in a lowprofile unstructured or mid-profile structured style, choose from premium brushed cotton or premium twill fabric. The cap includes two free logos and a free logo set-up, and secures with a hook-and-loop closure. Whether you’re advertising a new bar, a landscaping business or an outdoor company, this cap will get the message across in a way that’s trendy and wear-worthy. Max Apparel USA / PPAI 319435, S6 / www.maxapparel.com
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