As the popular saying goes, “Clothes make the man.” However, fashion accessories not only complete a look but can also make a strong statement as to one’s personal style and preferences. The right accessories can change an outfit completely—without being costly.
According to Statista, the market for apparel and accessories expands at faster rates with each passing year, in sync with ever-changing consumer demands and behaviors. Statista's Consumer Market Outlook projects that the apparel market worldwide will continue to grow consistently and, by 2023, will go over the two billion U.S. dollar mark in revenues. This bodes well for the promotional fashion accessories market, and distributors should take advantage of this by offering an array of unique and stylish wares to customers.
The scope of the accessories market is indeed wide. Products run the gamut, ranging from scarves, pashminas, and sunglasses to totes, water bottles, and tumblers. Phone cases and watch bands are also attention-grabbing items that can complement any look. Rustico’s Melissa Ercanbrack reveals that the company creates fashionable accessories with more of a timeless aesthetic versus merely following the crowd. “The fashion industry is known to be constantly evolving, with products gaining and losing popularity all of the time,” she notes. “The trends we’ve seen involve accessories for the latest tech gadgets, along with everyday carry accessories, such as wallets, bags, and keychains. These types of products are great promos and corporate gifts because nearly everyone uses them—making them widely appealing.” Fortunately, demand for these items has been steady, she adds.
Wolfmark Ties has seen an uptick in orders for custom wet dye scarves and embroidered pashminas, according to Eric Coopman. The company also has a unique lapel floral pin, which is also trending. “It is perfect for both men and women for a uniform program,” he comments. Fortunately, demand is much higher this year than last year. “We are still behind from two years ago, but the recent activity is promising, and we are not that far behind,” he elaborates.
Wayne Cimperman at Foxyware finds that the company’s rhinestone transfers, and apparel have been steady sellers and reverse sequin transfers are gaining lots of popularity and sales—up nearly 35 percent from a year ago.
New on the fashion front from Wolfmark Ties are its customizable line of pashminas, which Coopman says is immensely popular. “We are seeing an increased request for our line of cashmere scarves,” he adds. “Companies want to show their appreciation to loyal employees. We offer an acrylic line of scarves that have a cashmere-like feel; they are a great unisex gift.”
Foxyware’s best seller is also its newest product—rhinestone-emblazoned tumblers—which are now offered in minimums of only 12 pieces. Other best sellers are the company’s reverse sequin and rhinestone transfers.
A new all-leather wine tote tops Rustico’s list of best-selling accessories, which securely houses two wine bottles and has a leather strap on the reverse side that holds a corkscrew. It comes in dark brown, saddle, burgundy, and black. Leather Apple Watch bands and leather Apple AirTag cases are also new additions to Rustico’s line.
It is crucial to emphasize the versatility of fashion accessories when promoting them, Coopman at Wolfmark Ties maintains. “Pashminas are an extremely popular option for women.,” he comments. “They are multi-functional and an essential apparel accessory. As the season gets colder, they are in demand—and in use—constantly.”
Cimperman at Foxyware adds to Coopman’s thoughts. “Women want something that is of quality and is not just another screened T-shirt that looks just like every other shirt they have worn,” he states. “Women love bling, and it stands out. Give them something that they will want to wear!”
Finally, Rustico’s Ercanbrack says quality is key when it comes to accessorizing. “In addition, samples and virtual mockups really help to sell products,” she concludes. “The more you can help the customer visualize and experience your product, the better.”
Case Study
Eric Coopman, Wolfmark Ties
We had a client contact us about a customer that was organizing a women’s retreat. At the opening roundtable, an embroidered pashmina was placed on the back of every chair. Needless to say, this promotion was extremely popular.