Layering is no longer just a cool-weather trend. Now, it’s a year-round look emphasizing dimension and creative styling, offering opportunities to build out apparel programs.
“People are moving through different environments – home, office, travel, campus and events – and they want pieces that work all day,” says Michael Niemann, vice president of product at Next Level Apparel. “Layering is the default way wardrobes are built now.”
Layering’s growing popularity is also tied to changing workplace habits, as companies have moved back to in-person settings, with trade shows, events and premium gifting in full force, according to Chloe Ward, marketing manager at Storm Creek, PPAI 100’s No. 28 supplier. “Layering an executive team to look cohesively at a large company conference is a great example – it creates uniformity and reinforces the brand,” Ward says.
This shift is just as visible in wholesale programs as it is in consumer programs. “Buyers aren’t thinking in single items anymore,” Niemann says. “They’re thinking in systems.”
Chloe Ward
Marketing Manager, Storm Creek
This mirrors what’s happening in retail, where brands show full outfits, encouraging consumers to build looks around versatile, mix-and-match layers. The high-low method of pairing quarter-zip sweaters over a fitted turtleneck base layer or a boxy cropped jacket over a performance tee makes layered outfits feel even more intentional.
To meet that demand, distributors are building tiered assortments. “Layering pieces have moved from secondary to foundation in how programs are built: tees as the base, fleece as the next level of value and heavier or specialty pieces sitting at the premium end,” Ward says.
While Gen Z continues to influence relaxed layering pieces, corporate and collegiate buyers are also shaping demand for pieces that transition between work, campus and daily life. “Dress codes have loosened, but expectations for how people look in branded apparel have actually gone up,” Niemann says. “The demand is really a combination of lifestyle fluidity, workplace evolution and higher expectations from a single garment.”
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Foundational pieces include midweight fleece, French terry and dependable hoodies and crews. “These are the workhorses of corporate, collegiate and promotional programs: easy to decorate, scalable and consistently wearable,” Niemann says.
While foundational fleece styles remain the backbone of most programs, buyers are also exploring more fashion-forward layering options: heavier fleece, oversized fits, drop shoulders and a strong streetwear influence.
“The structure and weight of heavyweight fleece allow for more advanced decoration – puff prints, oversized graphics and appliqué – so the garment starts carrying identity,” Niemann says.
Michael Niemann
VP of Product, Next Level Apparel
Layering creates opportunities for distributors to increase order value and rethink decoration strategies, as well. “To build the best layered looks, start with a base and work out,” Ward says. “A base layer will have a closer-to-skin fit than a vest or jacket.”
Ward has also noticed a shift in the way layered looks are decorated. “If you’re wearing a button-down under a vest, the button-down might get a right bicep logo while the vest gets a left chest,” she says. “That way, both logos always stay visible, and each piece works on its own, too.”
Tonal decoration remains a strong trend, providing and elevated look that doesn’t compete with the apparel. “There’s also a lot of interest in rubber patches for a high-end finish,” Ward says. “The decoration quality should match the quality of the garment. That’s what makes people want to wear branded items outside of work.”
Overall, the layering styles that perform best are the ones that don’t lock into a single season or use case. “Buyers are avoiding overly specific garments like ‘winter-only fleece,’” Niemann says. “They want pieces that sit in the wardrobe year-round and layer naturally between different contexts.”
The Men’s Overachiever Sweaterfleece Vest, layered over the Sightseer Short Sleeve Performance T-shirt, pairs a polished sweater-knit look with lightweight comfort. Made from recycled sweater fleece with a brushed interior, the vest has zippered pockets and a storm flap. The T-shirt offers UPF 30+ sun protection and is made with 94% recycled materials and 12 certified post-consumer plastic bottles.
Storm Creek / PPAI 438091, Gold / stormcreek.com
The Women’s Front Runner 120 GSM Insulated Quilted Vest, layered over the Sightseer Long-Sleeve Performance T-shirt, combines lightweight warmth with a flattering fit. Made with recycled materials and THERMOLITE EcoMade insulation, the windproof, water-resistant vest features horizontal quilting, zippered pockets and a droptail hem. The shirt, made of recycled materials, provides sun protection and thumbholes.
Storm Creek / PPAI 438091, Gold / stormcreek.com
Like an upscale jean jacket, the Challenger Super Stretch Jacket, shown layered over the Varsity High Stretch Fitted Tank, is made with bluesign-certified fabric and features cuff zips and lots of pockets. The soft and stretchy tank is made with 93% recycled materials and features UPF 50+ sun protection.
Storm Creek / PPAI 438091, Gold / stormcreek.com
The soft, relaxed-fit Fleece Quarter Zip is made of a cotton/poly blend with a cotton-heavy face for breathability and ease of printing. The midweight pullover is available in sizes XS-3X.
Next Level Apparel / PPAI 272027, Silver / nextlevelapparel.com
The 7.4-oz. Santa Barbara Hoodie offers a comfortable relaxed fit with just the right amount of weight to keep cozy. The 80/20 fleece blend makes it an easy closet staple, and its heavy cotton face offers both breathability and easy printing for your clients’ branding.
Next Level Apparel / PPAI 272027, Silver / nextlevelapparel.com
The Heavyweight Pullover Hoodie, made of 80% combed ring-spun cotton and 20% polyester, provides warmth without compromising comfort or looks. The sweatshirt features front kangaroo pockets and comes in 10 colors, including neutrals and trending earth tones.
Next Level Apparel / PPAI 272027, Silver / nextlevelapparel.com
The classic-fit Santa Barbara Full Zip Hoodie has a cotton-heavy face for easy printing, plus a jersey-lined hood and tear-away label for added comfort. Natural drawcords add a pop of contrast.
Next Level Apparel / PPAI 272027, Silver / nextlevelapparel.com
Nicole Rollender heads up New Jersey-based STRANDWritingServices.com.
