In the fast-paced world of apparel decoration, remaining at the forefront of industry trends is the key to success. For apparel decorators, staying ahead of the curve isn’t just a choice… it’s a necessity. As we stand on the cusp of 2024, a wide array of exciting trends are poised to redefine the decorated apparel landscape. These trends encompass everything from garment styles to design approaches, with sustainability emerging as a top theme that will shape the market this year.
Sustainability takes center stage
In recent years, sustainability has surged to the forefront of garment manufacturing, production processes, and design.
This movement has gained considerable momentum as environmental consciousness continues to grow among consumers. Notably, social media has played a pivotal role in thrusting sustainability into the public consciousness, with individuals and businesses alike advocating for ecofriendly products and practices. For screen printers, recognizing and adapting to this increasing demand for sustainability is not just wise, it’s imperative.
To meet the growing demand for sustainable apparel, garment manufacturers have made significant strides in using materials like organic cotton, recycled
fabrics, and eco-friendly dyes. This shift in the industry presents a remarkable opportunity for decorated apparel vendors. Not only can we educate our customers about the merits of sustainably sourced garments, but we can also tap into a market that is increasingly willing to pay a premium for products that align with their values.
One shining example of a manufacturer that has embraced this trend is Allmade. Their dedication to sustainable practices, along with printer-friendly garments, resonates deeply with environmentally conscious consumers and decorators alike.
Additionally, Comfort Colors has made a notable contribution with its Clean Pigment Dye Process, which conserves vital natural resources, including water and energy, while delivering apparel that is right on trend.
Sharing these manufacturing processes with your clients can not only sell the end product but also build trust that will solidify long-term relationships.
The appeal of relaxed-fit styles
While sustainability is a rising star, the enduring popularity of comfor
collecting presales numbers to increase numbers on bulk orders.
table and relaxed-fit apparel remains a driving force in 2024, particularly among younger consumers. These roomy, easy-wearing garments offer an excellent canvas for eye-catching prints, and the best part is that catering to this trend doesn’t necessitate an extensive marketing effort.
To cater to the demand for relaxed fits, screen printers may want to consider stocking up on oversized blanks and investing in oversized screen-printing equipment, such as larger platens. It’s important to remember that streetwear consumers actively seek out what they want; our role is to anticipate their needs by offering the right blanks. Some favorites in this category include AS Colour’s Heavy Tee and the American Apparel 2001.
Consumers are on the lookout for quality, including thicker collars, boxier silhouettes, and thicker yet still soft fabrics. When combined with water-based and discharged printing techniques, these garments deliver a soft, comfortable feel and exude a premium quality that appeals to a broad customer base.
Additionally, this trend opens up exciting design options for decorators, such as poster-like art with a vintage vibe and multi-method decorating. Decorators should be open to using direct-to-film transfers and direct-to-garment printing in conjunction with screen printing, embroidery, or embossing techniques to create captivating designs.
Color trends for 2024
Consumers continue to follow the trend of changing color palettes with the seasons. Natural color palettes are more popular than ever, and this can be a tremendous advantage for screen printers.
Focusing your email and social media marketing efforts on these trends can encourage small businesses to expand their apparel offerings not only by style per season but also by color. Sending unrequested proofs with the colors of the season is an excellent approach to engage clients for repeat orders.
For instance, as we approach fall, shades like browns, maroons, and oranges are gaining in popularity. As winter sets in, we’ll shift our shop’s focus to blacks, greys, and timeless neutrals. When spring arrives, pastels will take center stage, while summer will show a continued love for vibrant, neon garments.
As we approach 2024, it’s evident that the decorated apparel industry is poised for an exhilarating year ahead. Sustainability is no longer a niche concern; it’s a defining factor in the industry’s landscape. By offering sustainably sourced garments and staying attuned to the enduring appeal of relaxed-fit styles, screen printers can expand their reach and thrive in this dynamic and creative field. In 2024, we can look forward to exciting
opportunities that will push the boundaries of our creativity and innovation.
