More than one-in-three American workers are millennials, so it’s no surprise that millennials are driving fashion trends in the workplace.1 Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ: CTAS) today issued its 2017 Workplace Fashion Trends Forecast. With a highly-competitive job market, companies are becoming more creative with how they attract employees, including millennials. This is why more companies are offering fashionable and flexible uniform options. The latest retail-inspired trends will be featured in the new 2017 Uniform Book from Cintas, which will be available early this summer.
“It’s a millennial’s market, so to stay competitive in today’s labor market, companies are offering versatile apparel programs,” said Kristin Sharp, Director of Design and Merchandising at Cintas. “We’re seeing more and more clients investing in garments that are similar to what you’d find in most millennials’ closets. Our 2017 collection features a wide range of on-trend garments that employees will want to wear and that help organizations enhance their brand.”
Cintas identifies the following trends in its 2017 fashion forecast:
Lifestyle Athleisure: More apparel programs are transforming from traditional approaches and reflecting sportswear and outdoor clothing. Tailoring details are being implemented to create separates which are ideal for busy lifestyles. Fundamental pieces are combined with one another and feature functional solutions, such as pockets cut for devices and seams placed for ergonomic comfort.
Eco Apparel: It is now considered fashionable to be sustainable, so eco apparel has become a key priority in image programs. Companies are investing in uniforms made from recycled goods, such as plastic bottles and plants.
Rework: To create a cohesive look with splits, tailored tops are being paired with relaxed bottoms. Meanwhile, tailored suits are being coordinated with casual separates such as t-shirts and statement shirts for a contemporary rework.
Updated Color Pallet: Companies are incorporating colors in their image programs that match the changing vibe of the business, and in some cases, the surrounding neighborhood.
- Pastel Mix: A spectrum of pastels are coming into play. Shades of powder blues, dusty pinks and banana creams add subtle energy to blouses, shirts and accessories.
- Denim Ink: Rich, inky shades are unexpectedly reworked in denims, yarn dyes, checks, stripes and accessories. From denim pockets to aprons, these blue hues work together in one ensemble.
- Raspberry: Raspberry brings a sense of modern romance, mixed with softer shades of wine and deep berry. A fresh approach is mixing it with greyed pastels which brings this color to the forefront.
“In addition to comfort, today’s workforce wants apparel that they feel confident in,” added Sharp. “We’re seeing an increasing demand for apparel solutions that give employees a more fashionable and approachable appearance. By integrating the latest trends, businesses can keep their employees looking and feeling fashionable while attracting new talent.”
To create your own unique look, visit www.cintas.com/shop or contact an image consultant at 1-800-UNIFORM.
