Key Apparel Trends for 2025: Heavyweight Fabrics, Sustainability, Oversized Styles and Athleisure

The wholesale apparel market has experienced significant shifts in 2025. Andi Goeing, style expert at S&S Activewear, highlights five trends driving the industry in 2025. Knowing what’s in demand can help you curate collections that resonate with clients.

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Heavyweight styles continue to rise

Premium fabrics like heavyweight cotton and structured knits are set to dominate. Oversized T‑shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts made from thicker fabrics deliver season‑spanning versatility and a luxurious feel. Markets ranging from streetwear and band merch to outdoor lifestyle brands and corporate uniforms will favor heavyweight garments.

For example, American Apparel’s Super Heavyweight Tee blends an oversized fit with ring‑spun cotton/polyester fabric for comfort and longevity.

Sustainable and eco‑friendly apparel

More companies want merchandise that aligns with their environmental values. Expect a surge in organic cotton, recycled polyester and water‑based inks. S&S Activewear’s introduction of the Nomadix brand in 2025 reflects this shift: accessories like the Original Towel and Fanny Pack are made from recycled plastic bottles and feature quick‑dry, sand‑resistant fabrics. These items appeal to corporate gifting programs, fitness brands and environmental organisations.

Oversized statement pieces

Comfort and gender‑neutral styling continue to influence fashion. Oversized T‑shirts, hoodies and crewnecks tap into ’90s streetwear nostalgia and work‑from‑home lifestyles. The Hanes Beefy‑T Retro Street tee is a prime example: its drop‑shoulder design and heavyweight cotton fabric combine a modern, relaxed look with durability.  Oversized apparel suits streetwear brands, corporate merch, school spirit wear and entertainment merch.

Athleisure remains a powerhouse

Blending comfort and performance, athleisure wear will stay popular in 2025. Moisture‑wicking fabrics, four‑way stretch, and odour‑resistant materials make hoodies, joggers and polos ideal for active lifestyles. Independent Trading Co.’s Perform Zip Hood uses four‑way stretch French terry and a double‑layer hood for mobility and style. Meanwhile, adidas’ women’s quarter‑zip pullover, made from recycled polyester fleece, offers sustainable comfort and modern design. Athleisure’s versatility means it works for fitness studios, corporate wellness programs, lifestyle retailers and sports teams.

Unisex styles gain momentum

Gender‑neutral apparel with relaxed fits is increasingly popular. Unisex tees like the LAT Relaxed Crew Tee offer flexibility, comfort and easy customisation with tear‑away labels. These styles suit event merchandising, education, corporate branding, nonprofits and hospitality. By reducing inventory complexity and appealing to a broad audience, unisex pieces create inclusive, versatile merch collections.

These trends—premium heavyweight fabrics, sustainability, oversized silhouettes, athleisure and unisex designs—will shape the wholesale apparel market in 2025. Incorporating them into your offerings ensures that your clients stay ahead of the curve with fashion‑forward and eco‑conscious merchandise.

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