Jason Krakow

According to Jason Krakow, vice president of Caps Direct, Overland Park, Kan., the company has made a name for itself thanks to the whole host of special-effect printing in its repertoire. "We are having a lot of fun with liquid metals, laser-cut appliques, screen printing and sublimation," he said. These imprinting methods mimic retail styling more closely so there's an increased chance promotional headwear will be worn again and again. Krakow also pointed to unique trims and accents as ways to embellish the hat itself, including distressing and vintage washes.

SAVILE ROW, IN London, is Mecca for sartorially minded men, from Winston Churchill to James Bond. The street is filled with clothiers that specialize in “bespoke tailoring,” or the custom designing of suits per patrons’ specifications and measurements. The result? It’s not just an outfit—it’s a lifestyle. Say you bought your suit on Savile Row, and it will immediately conjure images of martinis, shaken not stirred; fast cars; and an exotic, glamorous life that has no place for off-the-rack garments. Simply, “custom” implies something special. So, why not put those thoughts to work when creating your next promotion?