Fast Fashion

T-shirts are the foundation of the wearables industry. We’ve been writing about them for years, and you’ve been selling them even longer than that. By now, we know T-shirts really well. We know that polyester doesn’t have to be scratchy and heavy, that imprint options differ depending on the fabrication of the shirt, and that the basic crew-neck tee will never go out of style.

That’s all well and good, but what happens when your client wants a T-shirt to outshine its competition or win over a new consumer market? How do you tweak your T-shirt promotions so you are not recycling outdated ideas?

You can find inspiration by heading to the shopping center closest to you and visiting stores geared toward your client’s target market. Does Ann Taylor have a special display of scoop necks? Perfect for that “Women in Business” event your client is throwing. Is American Eagle showcasing thick necklines? Good to know for that middle school promotion you are planning. Is Rag & Bone stocking up on tight tees for men? Bet you're glad you saw that before doing the standard beefy tee for that fraternity party. The list goes on. But before you go anywhere, check out some of the designs on the following pages.

Not a Care in the World
Available in seven colors, Alstyle Apparel & Activewear’s Easy-Care Tee is constructed from a 60/40 polyester/cotton performance blend. It boasts a double-needle sleeve and bottom hems and comes in sizes S to 3XL. For more information, visit www.alstyle.com.

A Steady Pace
Made of 100 percent polyester, the Pace CORE365 Men’s Performance Piqué Crew Neck from Ash City USA is antimicrobial and moisture-wicking. Features include a matching rib neck trim and a heat-seal label. For more information, visit 
www.ashcity.com.

Earn Your Stripes
The Long Sleeve Stripe Jersey from Augusta Sportswear is made from a 50/50 polyester/cotton jersey knit blend and has two contrast-color stripes on the sleeves. A youth companion style is available. For more information, visit 
www.augustasportswear.com.