In Style | Essentials products with multiple functions can help cut down on consumption, helping to support sustainability efforts. “It’s more than just incorporating a product made with recycled materials, too,” says Taylor Borst, senior director of marketing and vendor relations at American Solutions for Business. “There has to be an authentic story behind why or how the product is sustainably sourced, delivered and drives behavior once in use.” She says products with social good and give-back initiatives can be a great way to connect with this audience as well. Another important element is color. Whitney Robinson, strategic marketing manager at Vantage Apparel – the No. 12 supplier in the PPAI 100 – explains that “social media, especially TikTok, is a driving force behind most of [Gen Z’s] fashion choices.” Color has been at the forefront of many recent social media trends, such as the Barbie pink craze last summer to the more recent “Brat Green” trend. “I think Gen Z realized that you can’t stand out if you blend in, and I love that,” says Abby Burke, national account executive at Walker-Clay – the No. 91 distributor in the PPAI 100. Now that you know what Gen Z looks for in their office attire, here are some product suggestions to inspire you. This Urban Pullover Hoodie gives hoodies a fashionable update, replacing strings with a sleek, layered look, making it sure to become a new go-to piece in any Gen Zer’s wardrobe. It’s offered in unisex sizing with a comfy, relaxed fit, making it a perfect choice regardless of gender. It also comes in a variety of trendy colors as well as timeless neutrals. Lane Seven Apparel / PPAI 630869, Standard-Base lanesevenapparel.com A cropped Women’s 1/2 Zip Pullover is a great choice for elevated athleisurewear that’s trendy but also quite practical. It’s nice for layering on a chilly day in the office or for wearing around town. This pullover has a kangaroo pocket and a comfy oversized fit and comes in neutral shades as well as Atlantic (shown), a marine-inspired deep teal blue. It’s made by 100% sweatshop-free labor using ecofriendly processes to reduce C02 emissions and use seven times less water than average clothing manufacturers. BELLA + CANVAS / PPAI 304892, Silver / bellacanvas.com PPAI • OCTOBER 2024 • 15
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