While work-from-home casual is the norm for some industries post-pandemic, business formal dress remains the signature in traditional markets, such as law, government, finance and some professional services. Employees serving in roles with formal dress requirements can benefit from having a uniform that’s sharp, professionally represents both the business and individual, and allows them to perform their jobs comfortably and efficiently.
Some of the booths on The PPAI Expo show floor this year are brimming with the latest in corporate apparel. Here’s a few of our favorites.
This Men’s Freedom Twill Shirt by Forsyth, a brand owned by Minneapolis, Minnesota, supplier Nucom, is a staple that can be worn on its own or underneath a blazer. The shirt’s fabric is coated with a wrinkle-resistant finish, keeping the wearer looking sharp for end-of-the-day meetings and during long travels. Details include two-button adjustable cuffs and sleeve placket, and fully taped seams for a smooth look. An option to transition from day to night, it’s available in inclusive sizes, men’s S-4XL, in stone, navy, white, light blue, khaki, black and royal (shown). See it at booth 1624.
Nucom / PPAI 110826, S6 / www.nucomltd.com
The Standard Leather Belt by Orem, Utah, supplier Mission Belt is smooth, versatile and carries its own story to tell and be proud to support. A dollar from the sale of each Mission Belt goes to support Mission Loan, a partnership between Mission Belt and Kiva, a peer-to-peer micro-lending institution, to provide micro loans to people who are interested in working and learning, but don’t have the resources to get started. Mission Loan has, thus far, provided more than 210,000 unique loans ranging from $25 to $725 to people across 72 countries. (You can read about the loans available, and the people they help, at the Kiva Lending Page here.) The 1.25-inch belt has a synthetic coating and a 35-milimeter buckle, and it adjusts easily for a snug fit. Available in men’s sizes small to custom, or from a 32- to 56-inch waist, in 13 colors, shown in chocolate brown. Get a “feel” for the belts at booth 519.
Mission Belt / PPAI 771009, S2 / www.missionbelt.com
The Redwood & Ross® Russel Suit Coat can offer employees a few things, from communicating to others they are a person of authority, to creating a sense of cohesion and unity, to instilling a sense of confidence in a new or existing employee. From the Kalamazoo, Michigan-based supplier Edwards Garment Company, this coat is waist-length and made from a tri-blend of polyester, wool and spandex. Conveniently machine-washable and available in a men’s companion style, it is available in women’s sizes zero to 32 in regular length, and four to 18 in tall length, in black onyx, charcoal marble and navy agate (shown). Stop by booth 2417 for a look at this style and more.
Edwards Garment Company / PPAI 198530, S11 / www.edwardsgarment.com
If you work with clients whose businesses are associated with energy, conservation or eco-friendly action, or if going green is important to them, the Men’s EcoTex™ Recycled Blazer is a great way to add to that message. The blazer’s EcoTex™ fabric is made from 60-percent recycled polyester derived from post-consumer PET plastic bottles—and it’s a sure conversation-starter. Its full lining is breathable and designed to absorb perspiration under arms and in elbow areas, providing all-day freshness, and it’s machine-washable. Signature details include five pockets—two on the front besom, a top welt pocket and two inside pockets—and a two-button closure. Available in men’s sizes 34-58 in navy and black (shown). Check it out at booth 1310.
Executive Apparel, Inc. / PPAI 255079, S2 / www.executiveapparel.com
A gift to give an employee for a promotion, as part of an onboarding package, or as a holiday gift is this Alienware Vindicator 2.0 Briefcase from Anaheim, California, supplier Mobile Edge. This briefcase is constructed with a durable, high-intensity nylon exterior and weather-resistant base that’s non-slip, so that your electronics and personal items are safe during travel. There are separate compartments for storing a 13-inch laptop, tablet, documents and accessories, with colored zippers to easily keep track of what’s where. If you grow tired of carrying the briefcase by hand, throw it over your shoulder using the non-slip, padded shoulder strap. Available in black/teal, it comes with a lifetime warranty. See it at booth 2936.
Mobile Edge / PPAI 314937, S1 / www.mobileedge.com