Impressions - March 2025 - 24

Milissa Gibson, sales director with Lane Seven Apparel, noted
that as environmentally friendly practices become more widespread
in manufacturing, that in turn reduces the costs of manufacturing in
a sustainable way. Companies can then pass along these savings to the
consumer, which both helps the environment and serves to elevate
trust between the consumer and the producer.
Transparency in
Sourcing, Production
Complementing the growing emphasis on sustainability is the demand
for transparency throughout the supply chain, from how and where cotton
is sourced and grown to whether the apparel is ethically made to
whether it is delivered in a recyclable bag: all stages of the production
process are increasingly highlighted on social media, putting consumers
in a better position to hold companies accountable.
" We are updating our omni channel messaging to share more about
our sustainable raw materials and the production process. Th e consumer
wants what they wear to represent their values, " said Glen Brumer, sales
director with Royal Apparel, describing his company's eff orts in this area.
The Unisex Fashion Fleece Lounge
Set is not only comfortable but ideal
for all embellishing needs. Photo
courtesy of Royal Apparel
Along these same lines, Gibson note, " Women tend to be more conscientious
buyers overall, because they are the ones that drive a lot of
purchasing decisions. "
" To me, it's more of a 'once you know, you can't go back' situation...
transparency is key. Once that became a trend, people don't want to close
their eyes. Th ey want to know they are getting product from a reliable
source, " said Ramona Watson, vice president of product development/
marketing with Infi nity Product Group.
Which is not to say consumers have to compromise on quality as they
are doing so. Infi nity Product Group, for example, includes a division
called Infi nity Her, which manufactures baseball caps specifi cally designed
for women, featuring an opening for a ponytail and a make-up
resistant, wicking sweatband that is breathable.
Colors
For womenswear in 2025, neutrals continue to dominate, but more
vivid tones are fi nding their way into the market as well, with a cornucopia
of colors expected. Experts say vibrant hues, like pinks and
oranges, in particular, will dominate. " As 2024 ends, we are seeing
an end to 'tone on tone' looks. Th e days of natural tops paired with
natural sweats are over, and color is back in the spotlight. Neons and
brights will be back in the forefront. 'Neon Pop' or 'Color Revival' are
the buzzwords to look out for, " said Lay.
Brumer added that not just bright hues but contrasting color combinations
are expected to be popular. " We are also seeing classic shades
that are seasonless: navy, natural, grays and black. We introduced a new
garment dye program where brands can customize their own color, "
he said, describing his company's eff orts to accommodate customers
seeking out unique looks.
Goeing agreed that neutrals-such as tans, whites, blacks, dark
browns, and beiges-will be trending, along with darker red shades,
such as maroon. However, she predicted that leopard print is going to
be huge in 2025, particularly, muted, monochromatic leopard prints,
as she is seeing that all over social media.
" In 2025, leopard print makes a sophisticated comeback with muted,
monochromatic tones. Rather than bold, high-contrast colors, many
designers are exploring muted versions of leopard print, like tone-ontone
neutrals or monochromatic color schemes, for example, shades
of beige, soft grays, and off -whites, " she said.
In addition, other animal prints, like cow and zebra, will be dominant.
" It has really become more of a staple than a fashion, " said
Watson. " Camo will be everywhere. We saw it peak a few years ago,
that generic fashion camo, and we are predicting that it will be back
in a big way, " she added.
Laney agreed, adding that other patterns will be blended into camo.
" It's mixed media camo. It will be incorporating other elements, such
as stars and fl owers, " Laney said.
" In 2025, we are still embracing offi ce-ready neutral colors with
black, rich navy and a range of white to off -white as an essential base.
However, earthy colors are emerging as a new complement, beautiful
shades of green from sage to mint and olive, sienna, rust, dusty purples,
and rich tones of brown and tan. Th ese fresh updates are approachable
and easily elevate your wardrobe for the season, " said Carton.
Silhouette
Some industry experts noted that gender-neutral styles and gender-neutral
inclusive sizing is also trending. " To accommodate diverse audiences,
promotional apparel is expanding its focus on gender-neutral
styles and inclusive sizing. Relaxed fi ts, unisex designs and a broader
range of sizes make branded apparel accessible to more people, enP.24
ImpressionsMagazine.com
March 2025
Impressions - March 2025

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