PPAI • JUNE 2026 • 21 culture and retention, where they view apparel as a brand touchpoint, not a cost center,” she says. A thoughtful balance of nostalgia and simplicity also defines new styles. “We’re seeing strong momentum around combining colors and patterns,” Brown says. “Nostalgic revival is influencing silhouettes and details, with preppy and collegiate references playing a role. Brands are reusing heritage logos or vintage-inspired designs.” In color, earth tones carry the season: cacao, matcha, sand, shell, gray, plum and navy. These palettes complement textured fabrics because the tonal, muted quality of the color lets the fabric surface do the work, Gibson says. Embroidery is having a moment on heavier, textured fleece because the fabric supports the structure. A tonal or near-tonal embroidered design looks retail-quality, she adds. Mixed-method approaches are also gaining traction, like screen-printed art on the body paired with a woven label or embroidered detail at the hem or cuff, Gibson says. “That layering of techniques is what pushes a piece into premium territory.” Brown also notes that textured imprinting is trending, which includes embossing, puff embroidery and screen printing, tackle twill and unique transfers. DTF has opened the door for many decorators to enhance their decorating style. Workwear, such as insulated jackets, chore coats and heavyweight fleece, continues to perform best for fall. To pitch fall programs, lead with the garment. “When a client can touch it, you stop selling a logo vehicle and start selling an experience,” Gibson says. “Build collections, not one-offs. The most successful fall programs present a cohesive set of styles that work together visually.” Also, understand your client’s audience. “A corporate gifting program and a university lifestyle store have different needs, but you can serve both with the right premium blank,” Gibson says. “Ask questions up front: Who’s wearing this? Where? When? What do they want to feel when they put it on?” Instead of ‘let’s pick a jacket,’ it’s about what pieces layer together into a mini retail drop, says Michelle Chen, president at Fossa Apparel. “Start thinking like a retailer,” she says. “The goal is to create something people want to keep wearing.” Now that you know the top fall trends, here are products to pitch. The cotton/poly construction of the Nantucket Crewneck Fleece creates a retailquality dimensional surface. Features include a clean crewneck silhouette and doubleneedle topstitching on all seams, as well as ribbed cuffs and waistband. Lane Seven Apparel PPAI 630869, Standard-Base lanesevenapparel.com The athletic-fit Hawthorne Tech Hooded Sweatshirt, made of four-way stretch fleece, features a scalloped hemline for mobility, as well as moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties. This style also includes a Legends logo on the shoulder. S&S Activewear / PPAI 256121, Platinum / ssactivewear.com Custom apparel like this retro, collegiate Rugby Shirt, styling paired with statement decoration, offers a nod to nostalgia. It’s a bold reminder that classic design never goes out of style. In Your Face Apparel PPAI 254968, Silver inyourfaceapparel.com In Style | Essentials
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