Everything Is Cyclical … Which Means Some Old Friends Are Back

IF YOU’VE BEEN in the printing industry for a while you know things are cyclical. From the newest eco-friendly inks to apparel styles fit for the times, everything that goes around seems to come around again.

Such is the case this year. In our January/February Apparel issue, you’ll find three insightful articles that address 2025’s trends and you’ll be surprised at the old friends who are back. Heavyweights and oversized fits. They seem to rule the roost this coming year; a far cry from the lightweight, often tri-blend garments and those that are garment-dyed and treated for softness.

One of the first heavyweight T-shirts designed specifically for screen printing was the iconic Hanes Beefy T. At the time, heavier garments and oversized fits were in huge demand. They remain a staple for apparel printers and consumers alike.

But somewhere along the line, heavy garments and loose-fitting styles fell off the mainstream radar. Consumers’ preferences shifted to lighter-weight tees and even sweatshirts. Tri-blends were the perfect solution to this preference for softer feels. Organic cottons, eco-friendly options, and other unique fabrications became the norm for many consumers. Then there’s fit. Baby doll tees, crops, darting, and other features on ladies’ styles were flying off the presses — even many men’s styles now are fitted to hug the body a bit.

But that doesn’t mean our beloved heavyweight, loose-fitting apparel has ever gone away. In fact, in this month’s 2025 Apparel Trends article, author Andi Goeing reports that they’re coming back with a vengeance. Oversized, comfy clothes are in vogue again; most likely an answer to so many people now working at home after the pandemic. Heavier fabrications are back as well. Yes, even northern climates are getting warmer, but consumers are still wanting snuggly, easy clothes to wear with their favorite design, logo, or message printed on it. Plus, it still gets cold in the winter months!

So it’s time to look at your inventory; research and assess what’s trending at the consumer level; and start talking to your customers about what their customers are looking for. As you know, staying ahead of the curve sets you apart from the competition.