of value and heavier or specialty pieces sitting at the premium end,” Ward says. While Gen Z continues to influence relaxed layering pieces, corporate and collegiate buyers are also shaping demand for pieces that transition between work, campus and daily life. “Dress codes have loosened, but expectations for how people look in branded apparel have actually gone up,” Niemann says. “The demand is really a combination of lifestyle fluidity, workplace evolution and higher expectations from a single garment.” Foundational pieces include midweight fleece, French terry and dependable hoodies and crews. “These are the workhorses of corporate, collegiate and promotional programs: easy to decorate, scalable and consistently wearable,” Niemann says. While foundational fleece styles remain the backbone of most programs, buyers are also exploring more fashion-forward layering options: heavier fleece, oversized fits, drop shoulders and a strong streetwear influence. “The structure and weight of heavyweight fleece allow for more advanced decoration – puff prints, oversized graphics and appliqué – so the garment starts carrying identity,” Niemann says. Layering creates opportunities for distributors to increase order value and rethink decoration strategies, as well. “To build the best layered looks, start with a base and work out,” Ward says. “A base layer will have a closer-to-skin fit than a vest or jacket.” Ward has also noticed a shift in the way layered looks are decorated. “If you’re wearing a buttondown under a vest, the button-down might get a right bicep logo while the vest gets a left chest,” she says. “That way, both logos always stay visible, and each piece works on its own, too.” Tonal decoration remains a strong trend, providing and elevated look that doesn’t compete with the apparel. “There’s also a lot of interest in rubber patches for a high-end finish,” Ward says. “The decoration quality should match the quality of the garment. That’s what makes people want to wear branded items outside of work.” Overall, the layering styles that perform best are the ones that don’t lock into a single season or use case. “Buyers are avoiding overly specific garments like ‘winter-only fleece,’” Niemann says. “They want pieces that sit in the wardrobe year-round and layer naturally between different contexts.” The Women’s Front Runner 120 GSM Insulated Quilted Vest, layered over the Sightseer Long-Sleeve Performance T-shirt, combines lightweight warmth with a flattering fit. Made with recycled materials and THERMOLITE EcoMade insulation, the windproof, water-resistant vest features horizontal quilting, zippered pockets and a droptail hem. The shirt, made of recycled materials, provides sun protection and thumbholes. Storm Creek / PPAI 438091, Gold / stormcreek.com The soft, relaxed-fit Fleece Quarter Zip is made of a cotton/ poly blend with a cotton-heavy face for breathability and ease of printing. The midweight pullover is available in sizes XS-3X. Next Level Apparel / PPAI 272027, Silver / nextlevelapparel.com The 7.4-oz. Santa Barbara Hoodie offers a comfortable relaxed fit with just the right amount of weight to keep cozy. The 80/20 fleece blend makes it an easy closet staple, and its heavy cotton face offers both breathability and easy printing for your clients’ branding. Next Level Apparel PPAI 272027, Silver nextlevelapparel.com • SEPTEMBER 2026 • 11 In Style | Essentials
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