Company swag often gets a bad reputation—and for good reason. Stiff polos, oversized t-shirts, and loud logos don’t exactly scream “I want to wear this to brunch.” But branded apparel doesn’t have to be a corporate costume. When done right, it can feel like a wardrobe upgrade that your employees are proud to wear, on and off the clock.
Whether you’re ordering uniforms for the first time or updating your company’s style, here’s how to make sure your branded gear actually gets worn (and appreciated).
Why It Matters
Let’s be clear—branded apparel isn’t just about getting your logo out there. It plays a real role in:
- Team cohesion: Matching outfits promote a sense of unity, especially in customer-facing roles.
- Brand visibility: Every time your staff wears branded clothing outside of work, it’s free advertising.
- Professionalism: Consistent uniforms can improve how customers perceive your business.
- Employee morale: Good-looking, good-feeling gear sends the message that your people matter.
But if employees shove it to the back of their closets, you’re missing all those benefits. So how do you make custom apparel people want to wear?
Make Style a Priority
The biggest mistake companies make is treating branded apparel like a uniform from 1998—oversized, boxy, and beige. The truth is, people want to feel good in what they wear, even if it has a company logo on it.
Choose current, flattering styles that reflect your brand’s personality. Retail-inspired cuts, fitted or relaxed fits, and options like cropped hoodies, zip-ups, or joggers go a long way. Don’t be afraid to step beyond the standard t-shirt.
Also, offer multiple fits. A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Giving employees the option to choose between men’s, women’s, or unisex cuts increases the odds they’ll wear it often—and confidently.
Style matters more than ever. When your apparel feels like something from their favorite store, your staff will wear it proudly—on the job and beyond.
Keep It Comfortable
Let’s be honest—no one wants to spend eight hours in a stiff, scratchy shirt. Comfort is key to adoption. Use breathable, quality fabrics like cotton blends, moisture-wicking poly, or tri-blends that move with the body. Tagless labels and soft interiors can make a huge difference, especially for pieces like hoodies or long sleeves that might be worn frequently.
When in doubt, ask your supplier for samples and let a few employees test them before you commit to a large order. If it doesn’t feel good, it’s not going to get worn.
Think Beyond the Logo
Your brand deserves to be seen, but it doesn’t have to take over the whole shirt. A small, tasteful logo on the chest or sleeve often feels more wearable than a bold, oversized front design.
You can also consider tone-on-tone embroidery or subtle screen printing for a modern, minimalist effect. The result is clothing that feels branded without screaming it.
Not sure how to bring your idea to life? Our guide to printing methods explains how techniques like screen printing, embroidery, and heat transfer can impact the final result—both in look and longevity.
Let Employees Choose
Whenever possible, give your staff a say in what they wear. Even a simple choice between two t-shirt colors or hoodie styles helps boost satisfaction.
Send out a quick survey asking for size, fit, and fabric preferences, or let them pick from a small curated collection—for example, three different styles that all match your brand palette.
People are more likely to wear something they helped choose—and you’ll avoid the cost of ordering dozens of pieces that end up unused.
Keep It On Brand (But Not Overdone)
Your company apparel should align with your brand’s personality, not fight it. If you run a law firm, stick with clean, neutral pieces. If you’re a creative agency or athletic brand, you can have more fun with color and layout.
But don’t get too loud. A bright neon shirt with your logo splashed across the back might make sense for a race-day event, but it’s not something most people will wear to the grocery store.
A clean, cohesive aesthetic tells the world your business has its act together. And yes—good design is part of good branding.
Think Seasonally (and Strategically)
No one’s wearing a heavy fleece hoodie in July. And short sleeves won’t cut it during a Calgary winter. To keep your branded apparel in rotation year-round, offer a mix of:
- Lightweight t-shirts and tanks for summer
- Long sleeves and hoodies for cooler months
- Toques, beanies, or baseball caps as seasonal add-ons
When apparel is weather-appropriate, it’s more likely to become a go-to item—not just an occasional novelty.
Order Smart (and Stay Organized)
Great apparel starts with a great process. That includes clear sizing charts, mockups before ordering, and realistic turnaround times. If you’re coordinating a bulk order across departments or multiple office locations, logistics matter.
If you’re new to all this, our promotional products guide has helpful tips on how to plan and manage an apparel order that works for your whole team—without the guesswork.
Branded Doesn’t Mean Boring
Your gear can represent your company and your culture. Think about adding fun elements like:
- A cheeky inside joke or motto printed inside the collar
- Branded tags with your company’s tagline
- Subtle nods to your city, values, or industry
These thoughtful details don’t just make apparel stand out—they make it memorable. And in a workplace that values authenticity and personality, those small extras can go a long way.
Use Apparel Strategically for Onboarding and Rewards
Branded clothing isn’t just for uniforms. Consider using it for:
- Employee onboarding kits
- Birthday or milestone gifts
- Team incentives or contests
- Staff appreciation events
When given as a reward or surprise, apparel carries more meaning—and often, more wear time.
Don’t Forget Function
While fashion is a huge part of the equation, don’t forget about functionality—especially if your employees work outdoors, do physical labor, or are on their feet all day.
Look for:
- Durable fabrics that wash well
- Stretch or performance material for physical tasks
- Deep pockets, reinforced seams, or water resistance if needed
The right mix of style, comfort, and function makes branded gear an everyday essential—not an obligation.
Final Thoughts
When employees want to wear your branded apparel, everyone wins. Your company looks unified and professional. Your brand gets more visibility. And your staff feels more connected to the place they work.
If you’re ready to upgrade from “swag bag filler” to wardrobe staple, Drive Sportswear is here to help. From product selection to printing and delivery, we’ll make sure your branded gear looks and feels like something worth wearing.
Need help figuring out the best style or printing method for your next apparel order? Get in touch or explore our resource on why custom uniforms matter for small businesses to see how clothing can support your brand from the inside out.
