From sustainable staples to throwback vibes

How many branded tees end up as pyjamas? Probably more than we’d like to admit. Fortunately in 2024, UK brands are stepping up to create merchandise people actually want to wear out in the streets – apparel that’s stylish and sustainable. Because the last place it should end up is the charity shop (or worse, the landfill).

From viral TikTok trends to eco-friendly fabrics, today’s branded apparel is made to be more than a freebie. It’s handed out with purpose – designed to be worn, shared on social media, and genuinely valued, giving your brand a lasting presence in people’s lives.

Branded apparel UK – trends worth your attention

In 2024, branded apparel in the UK pairs style with values. We’re seeing trends that revolve around sustainable fabrics and retro styles, making branded gear more than just a logo and a freebie.

Branded sustainable clothing

With fast fashion booming through brands like Shein and Temu, there’s also a growing demand for clothes that last longer than a season. A 2022 survey revealed that a quarter of UK fashion shoppers strongly agreed the industry should shift toward sustainability, with even more in partial agreement.

This is where branded sustainable clothing can make an impact. Organic hoodies, GOTS-certified cotton fleece and other eco-conscious fabrics send the right message: your business cares about quality and the environment. Choosing durable, sustainable apparel means your merch won’t end up as waste when trends change – it’s designed to be worn, valued and kept around.

Brand collaborations with big names

In branded apparel, there’s a big difference between a basic logo tee and a piece that pairs your brand with names people trust. Collaborating with established brands like The North Face, Regatta or Under Armour instantly adds credibility and appeal to your merch. These are names the recipients already associate with durability and style – meaning your branded gear is less likely to end up forgotten or discarded.

Gift a sleek North Face jacket or a cosy Regatta fleece, and your co-branded items will bring extra value that a standard freebie just can’t match. Plus, these partnerships align your brand with the quality and reputation of a well-loved label, making your merch something people will reach for time and again.

Branded nostalgic items

Nostalgic apparel is huge in 2024, with a surge in ‘90s-inspired fashion that’s striking a chord across age groups. Branded retro pieces like colour-blocked windbreakers, graphic tees and denim jackets give your merch that “throwback” appeal without feeling outdated. Add custom touches like varsity-style lettering, vintage wash effects or iconic patterns – think neon details and oversized fits straight from the ‘90s playbook.

These pieces feel personal and familiar, making them just as wearable on weekends as at work. By leaning into trends people already love, your brand becomes part of a look they’ll actually reach for, not just another piece in the closet. Nostalgic apparel offers that rare mix of style and sentiment, turning your apparel into something that gets noticed and worn repeatedly.

Branded athleisure

Since the pandemic, there’s been a notable shift toward self-care and wellness, with athleisure at the heart of this trend. Many studies, including this recent German one, show that people are increasingly prioritising activities like yoga, hiking and meditation over nights out – especially Gen Z, who are embracing the ‘sober curious’ movement. So, if you’re looking to appeal to a younger crowd, it might be time to skip the branded champagne bottle and opt for something that aligns with this health-focused lifestyle.

Branded athleisure items like performance leggings or moisture-wicking tees show you’re tuned into what matters to your audience. Customise with subtle branding on high-quality, functional pieces that they’ll reach for at the gym or during a weekend hike. These are so much more than giveaway items; they’re practical, thoughtful pieces that fit right into their routine, helping your brand become part of their daily life.

Branded water bottles

Okay, it’s not quite apparel, but a branded water bottle is a statement accessory worth mentioning. Just look at the runaway success of the Stanley Tumbler, which grew from $73 million in revenue in 2019 to an impressive $750 million in 2023. Clearly, people want more than a basic bottle – they’re after style, sustainability and something that all the influencers have in their hands. So, why not create a branded bottle with real appeal that might just make its way onto the next viral TikTok trend?

Consider premium materials like stainless steel or glass, reusable straws and colours or designs that reflect your brand’s personality. A well-made bottle tells people your brand’s got style and a conscience. It’s the kind of thing they’ll actually want to carry around – from the daily work commute to post-gym hydration – putting your brand front and centre with every sip.

Get your on-trend branded apparel UK here

On-trend branded apparel isn’t just about keeping up with the latest fashion fads; it’s investing in gear that aligns with people’s values in styles that are actually wearable.

Whether planet-friendly fabrics, retro throwbacks or collabs with big-name brands, the magic is in picking pieces that feel personal and make sense for your audience. When your merch reflects both your brand’s aesthetic and your customers’ taste, it becomes their new favourite hoodie or go-to tee.

Check out Totally Branded’s range and find the apparel that’ll keep your brand in rotation, not in the bottom drawer.