In a recent blog, we defined the various types of fabrics used in apparel production and offered suggestions on which are best for certain applications.

Today we’re going to turn our attention to the various types of apparel available for corporate branding purposes. While the categories are pretty basic—essentially shirts and outerwear—there are certain styles and treatments that impact the look and feel of the final product, which ultimately affects the perception of your brand. Much of what follows may be common knowledge, at least for some, but it provides a nice summary you or your team can consult when considering future purchases to ensure they are investing in the right items for the right audience.

Let’s get started.

Branded apparel is tremendously popular amongst our customers.  It’s the go-to gift for employees, partners, customers, event attendees—just about anyone they will interact with.  Whether it’s a brand-name polo shirt or a baseball cap, a high-end jacket or a t-shirt, branded apparel is a great way to advertise the brand while letting the recipient know they are valued.

Picking the right item for the occasion is fairly easy for our customers; they usually know exactly what they are looking for.  Selecting the right material or fabric, though, is a bit more difficult.  There are so many options that understanding the differences between them requires a fair amount of knowledge. It’s not uncommon for customers to be delighted with their selection but disappointed in the material they chose.

If you happen to pay close attention to manufacturing regulations, you might have heard that many states across the U.S., as well as federal, tribal, and local governments, retailers, and popular brands are acting quickly to address the PFAS crisis.

PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of human-made chemicals that are widely used in various industrial and consumer products. Introduced in the 1940s, these chemicals are known for their unique properties, particularly resistance to heat, water, and oil—all of which have made them valuable in a range of applications, including firefighting foam, electronics, food packaging, and—of particular interest to OnFulfillment—manufacturing.

Today more than ever, environmental concerns and social responsibility are driving business decisions and behavior around the world.

One way in which these values have manifested themselves is the way companies engage in gift giving, particularly with prospects and customers. The types and quality of gifts have evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from inexpensive, generic, and often wasteful items to more thoughtful and considerate offerings designed to project a more conscientious and impactful image.

When it comes to branded swag, your choices are virtually limitless. You can put your logo on almost anything, and the technique you use is restricted only by your budget (and, of course, the item itself).

The type of swag printing you choose really matters. The available methods offer varying levels of quality and durability, sending an unmistakable message about your company. Perception and differentiation are significantly influenced by the printing method you employ, helping you achieve the desired result while adhering to your budget.