As we look ahead in 2021 with a more hopeful and positive mindset, we can’t help but reflect on
the aspects of 2020 that have taken us to where we are today. With the pandemic that rapidly changed
the way we go about our daily lives, there are many concepts that we will carry into this new year.
Many industries, especially Promotional Products, have found themselves more adapted to their new
normal by adjusting various aspects of their business to meet new demands and trends.
At Vantage, we always make it our priority to stay in tune with every year’s latest trends and
find creative ways to always stay on top. Here are our top 2021 fashion trends for decorated apparel
and promotional clothing.
#1 Safety first
It’s a no brainer that PPE has seen a huge increase in sales within the past 10 months and is
projected to see an even higher increase in sales in the coming year. According to Grand View
Research, the PPE market size is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 29.1%.- It’s
safe to say that masks are here to stay and is a trend that will continue to deliver protective and
functional products to consumers, health professionals, and essential workers to promote wellness
and safety.
According to Grand View Research, the PPE market size is expected to grow at a compound
annual growth rate of 29.1%.
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Aside from face coverings, be on the lookout for more apparel related items like knits, pullovers
and outerwear that use fabrics with protective finishes such as anti-microbial, anti-bacterial,
water-proof elements, breathability ratings, UV protection, and moisture wicking. Other functional
components include reflective trim for high visibility, lots of pockets (think chest, waist, sleeve)
and items that are packable and convertible for those on-the-go,
#2 Sustainability
Sustainability continues to be a top priority for individuals and organizations as worth-while
investment. The demand for eco-friendly products and purchases from environmentally friendly
companies is on the rise more than ever. According to ASI’s Global Ad Report, “46% of consumers have
a more favorable opinion of an advertiser if the promo product they received was environmentally
friendly.” Some organizations are turning to more eco-friendly processes of clothing manufacturing.
At Vantage, we have added a line of sustainable fashion that uses recycled polyester that keeps
post-consumer plastic bottles from oceans and landfills, uses fewer natural resources, and reduces
our carbon footprint.
According to ASI’s Global Ad Report, 46% of consumers favor eco-friendly promo products.
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Our Earthwise collection
includes 6 styles made with certified and traceable high-quality
REPREVE® recycled polyester. Since the launch of the collection,
we’ve recycled almost 200,000 bottles. In 2021, we added 4 new colors in The Planet Polos and Trek
Hoodies – Cobalt, Red Sky, Silver and Orange, and also added a Pro-Tec Gaiter to the collection as
an eco-friendly PPE option.
#3 Buy Better Buy Less
Wearables are essentially the longest lasting promotional product that can be decorated on to
promote longevity and Logogevity™. On par with the ever-growing sustainable movement, customers
desire more products and custom shirts that will serve a purpose, are five-star quality, and are
dependable. Per our Director of Merchandising, Lauren Cocco, “Products that serve a purpose and meet
an important need are received better than fast fashion by today’s consumers.”
Products that serve a purpose are received better than fast fashion by today’s consumers.
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Better-made basics that hold their quality over time with comfortable fabrics, quality
construction and timeless styling are of the essence. In addition, durable and value-added benefits
like stretch and performance fabrics (such as our Zen Pullover) have become key characteristics to
apparel made with a purpose that is built to aid the consumer. Lastly, versatile and seasonless
items with need-based attributes like pockets and packable options are also important and contribute
to the mindset of “Buy better and Buy smarter.”
#4 Out and About
It’s no surprise that people are spending more time outdoors, going on walks, or simply enjoying
the fresh air. It’s also no surprise that the weather may vary, and it is important to be prepared
rain or shine. Taking control of the climate is easy with functional outerwear for unpredictable
weather such as the styles in our Climate Collection.
Taking control of the climate is easy with functional outerwear.
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Durable rainwear with stretch and breathable features are essential to confidently and
comfortably take on the elements. Director of Merchandising, Lauren Cocco suggests
finding “lightweight and mid-weight styles that are designed to be packable, include a removable
liner, hoods that fold in or out and other adjustable components.” Another highly popular fabric
includes high pile, chunky and super soft fleece fabrics. These types of garments are cozy,
fashionable and maintain warmth. Other options include a trucker, denim and utility jackets which
offer a cool alternative to basic outerwear.
#5 Everyday Heroes
We extend our gratitude to those who dedicate themselves into helping others in both the biggest
and smallest ways. With that being said, if you’re looking for a hot market, there is definitive
growth in some of the most demanding industries like healthcare, food services and essential
personal. According to Grand View Research, the healthcare industry is expected to reach USD $528 by
2027 and even food services are expected to reach USD $4.2 Trillion by 2024. All in all, these are
hot markets that everyone should be
eyeing and are worth investing in.
According to Grand View Research the healthcare industry is expected to reach USD $528
by 2027.
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Vantage can help you be prepared with uniform options or appreciation ideas for these thriving
sectors. We now exclusively offer Xtreme Visibility, premium quality safety apparel, opening up new
opportunities for outdoor crews, recreational needs, and public service workers. From healthcare to
food delivery, appreciating our essential workers is always on-trend.
#6 Products with a Purpose
3 words: Meaningful. Mindful. Purposeful. Sustainable products and services as well as charitable
causes have all become imperative and sometimes a deal-breaker in a consumer’s buying decision
process. That’s why in 2021 and beyond, products with a give-back component, a donation or a promise
to do good are extremely popular.
Products with a give-back component, donation, or a promise to do good are extremely popular.
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Vantage has partnered with 1% for the Planet, a global movement inspiring businesses and
individuals to support environmental solutions through annual memberships and everyday actions and
pledged to donate 1% of sales from all styles in the Earthwise collection as well as the Denali
Jackets, to nonprofit organizations focused on environmental causes. You can help make a difference
one purchase at a time.
#7 Bright Light Big Color
Pantone’s 2021 Colors of the Year,
Ultimate Gray and Illuminating symbolize unity, stability and hope, everything we could ever wish
for in 2021. These connecting colors work really well together as Ultimate Grey is a stable neutral
and Illuminating adds brightness and sunshine. Gray is a go to color and is commonly seen in apparel
and accessories. Whether it is sweatshirts, sweatpants, blankets or headwear most have something in
this shade.
Pantone’s Colors of the Year Ultimate Gray and Illuminating symbolize unity, stability, and hope.
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Illuminating, on the other hand, is uplifting and provides a pop of color. So, if you’re trying
to brighten up your look or stand out on a video call this is popular color choice. Be on the
lookout for other vibrant colors to give sparks of energy that encourage and uplift our moods, like
Red, Royal and Orange.
#8 Cozy Cotton
Whether people are safely heading back to the office or continue to work from the comfort of
their home, there is no doubt that anyone is letting go of their cozy cottons and super soft stretch
fabrics. No worries, though, these cozy cottons can still make for a polished appearance (like our
Baja Hoodie)
Cozy cottons and super stretch fabrics can still make for a polished WFH appearance.
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Many performance-based fabrics are being blended with natural fibers or engineered to create a
cotton-like feel. Other suggestions for some feel-good fabrics are heather or mélange fabrics, and
they are just as preferred as solids. These kinds of silhouettes are being worked into everyday
wardrobes.
#9 Athflow
Athletic meets elegance, you’ll find athleisure’s “flighty” new friend, Athflow. The next “big
thing” in fashion trends, athflow combines loungewear, workout-ready, and elegance that can take you
from your comfy couch to a midday walk, and even to the office. You’ll find that looser fits that
have become more loungewear inspired that can be worn just about anywhere, rather than the typical
athletic appeal.
Meet athleisure’s flighty new friend, Athflow.
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Athflow is influenced by the lifestyle change of work from home, where some don’t want to totally
look like they’re headed for the gym but sport a more laid-back look. In 2021, clients are looking
for less restrictive, ease of movement, flowy and more relaxed silhouettes (similar to our Vansport
Pro Riviera shirt)
#10 Down to Earth
We’ve talked a lot about the Earth and eco-friendly solutions, but the color scheme itself will
absolutely come into play this year. With sustainability top of mind, earthy shades of green, blue
and purple are becoming increasingly important and are hues that will lighten the mood.
Earthy shades of green, blue, and purple are top of mind hues that will lighten the mood.
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Furthermore, other hues that are trending include neutrals that are lighter beige and tan shades,
similar to our Beach, Taupe and Silver.
Our Final 2 trends are primarily based on decoration methods.
#11 “Zoom” Approved
Colleagues galore have become dependent on virtual meetings as a way to stay connected and boost
team productivity. However, if you're not branded during virtual meetings, you're definitely missing
out on some great opportunities to showcase your company. This is where decoration plays a big part
in virtual meetings to maintain brand visibility. (Our Popular Placement Guide can take you through
the ins and outs of the best ways to display your brand)
Decoration plays a big part in virtual meetings in order to maintain brand visibility.
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Overall, larger logos like a left-chest or front-chest are easier to see and read and have a
better chance of standing out during a virtual encounter. Higher logo placements, by the collar and
shoulder seam, will also ensure your brand is seen on screen. On the other hand, the use of layering
pieces like vests and cardigans that can easily go over any shirt, are ideal to show off your brand
for impromptu meetings.
#12 Old School is the New School
Throwback inspired, brand heritage, and nostalgia, it’s safe to say that people are enjoying all
of the old school vibes in the vintage fashion trend. Think of the Tommy Hilfiger and Coca-Cola
special re-edition capsule. They’re celebrating the all-American spirit of both brands.
There is a certain comfort with what’s known vs the unknown, and old school nostalgia exudes that
warm, fuzzy feeling. You can achieve the popular retro varsity look with classic applique. Be sure
to layer your logo for eye-catching dimension.
Throwback inspired and nostalgia, people are enjoying the old school fashion trend.
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Vantage is here to help you incorporate these trends into your product offering, making your
business the go-to for current and future clientele. Be sure to subscribe and follow our social
media channels to get Vantage updates that you can share with your customers.
Preview our 2021 Trend Presentation Here.