Apparel

Dress Codes--How Not to Look Like a Banker (The New York Times)
May 21, 2009

Rather surprisingly, even in this recession, numbers are showing that men are not cutting back on buying clothes as much as women seem to be. The reason, as put forth by this article, is that the traditional "power suit," which now leaves people with visions of misallocated bailout funds dancing in their heads, is being replaced with the duds of a "creative professional." Perhaps skinnier ties, more fitted buttondowns and mix-and-match textures can find their way into men's wear promotions? (The New York Times)

Augusta Sportswear--Ladies' Poly/Spandex Jacket
May 21, 2009

You know how there are certain pieces that just inspire you to go out and get physically fit? When I look at this piece, I feel the need to start doing jumping jacks. Anything with racing stripes on it has that effect on me, frankly. This is a great promotion for team wear, and to boot, track jackets have been an emerging fashion trend over the past year or two. It'll work on the field and off.
(800) 237-6695
www.augustasportswear.com

Keep wash-and-wear top of mind.
May 21, 2009

Rather surprisingly (to this editor, at least), moisture-wicking treatments can eventually launder their way right out of apparel. Though "chemically treated" clothing sounds slightly dubious, it's actually the way companies ensure consistent performance qualities from garment to garment. Natural fibers, on the other hand, can deviate slightly.

Chad Trollinger, director of marketing for Augusta Sportswear in Augusta, Ga., suggested this nugget: Distributors should particularly look for companies that do extensive wash testing on their garments. This way, they can be sure fabric extras will last a lifetime.

Boxercraft--Bitty Boxers
May 21, 2009

The "bitty" in the name means only certain people can get away with this style, so if this isn't tailor-made for the college crowd, I don't know what is. Its flannel fabrication is a throwback to a far more casual time when all you had to do in the morning was roll out of bed, throw on shorts and a T-shirt, and you were ready to face the day. Somehow, I don't think that'll fly for those of us in the workforce, but for a juniors or youth promotion, it's all the rage. Ah, nostalgia.
(800) 914-7774
www.boxercraft.com

Mount Gear Corp.--Ozone
May 21, 2009

If you want to hear me expound on the three worst things in the world, at least to me, see my blog. For a quick hint, it's being cold, wet and far from home. This belief alone is the reason why I don't enjoy "outdoorsy" activities such as camping or boating. But wrap me up in this, and there's a high possibility I might consider the thought of maybe going outside. The dynamic trio of wind-resistance, water-resistance and a fleece lining particularly appeals, and are essential to staying warm and dry. Two out of three ain't bad, I guess.
(800) 824-6464
www.trimountain.com

Smart Pants (Advanced Imaging Pro)
May 21, 2009

Clothing and electronics. Let me say that again: Clothing and electronics. In one. My brain is currently exploding with possibilities. My favorite thought so far? Running shorts that calculate the approximate distance to the ice-cream truck (for the fitness buffs, like myself). I don't think that one exists yet, so there's room for innovation, folks! In all seriousness, though, great promotional potential exists here—imagine a hospital or insurance company giving out shirts that can monitor heart conditions or blood pressure, for instance. Technology takes another leap. (Advanced Imaging Pro)