TREND ANALYSIS
Key takeaways from the below Comfort Zone trend page and my own trend research:
• Close-fitting short roll/cuff beanies
• Thicker cable and waffle knits
• Paisley and bandana prints
• Monochrome palettes
• Patchworking
And importantly….
• Sustainability
RECYCLED PATCHWORK BUCKET HAT
Top off your streetwear style with a classic fitting patchwork bucket hat.
• 100% recycled denim patches (dark and medium wash)
• 100% cotton
• Sweatband feature lining the inside
• Loop fold label
• All around stitched brim for structure
MONOCHROMATIC PACKABLE CAP
From skateparks to national parks, stay cool and comfortable with this five-panel construction.
• 100% reflective cotton ripstop in Houndstooth print
• Metal eyelets for ventilation
• Adjustable nylon strap
• Pull patch logo
SHORT ROLL CHUNKY CABLE KNIT BEANIE
An essential beanie designed with style and comfort for everyday, everywhere, with everything.
• 100% Cotton
• Chunkier cable knit for added wow factor
• 2.5” fold
• 7” height for a close fit
• 90’s inspired embroidered logo
COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS
Specifically in the area of men’s hats.
ADIDAS
With their reputable Trefoil logo and famous 3 stripes, Adidas products are suitable for both athletic and everyday wear. The brand is known for its large celebrity following and a long list of designer collaborations.
Accessibility: Available online at adidas.com, in the app, click-to-purchase on Adidas social media platforms, brick-and-mortar stores, and several online retailers.
Relative Hat Cost: $14.00-$80.00
Common Fabrications: 100% acrylic (beanies), 100% cotton, 100% nylon ripstop, 100% polyester, some materials considered recycled
Trims and Details:
Large or small distinguishable Trefoil logo or embroidered Adidas name
Snapback and adjustable closures
Moisture-wicking sweatband
Mesh ventilation
UV technology
Current Trend Analysis:
Solid and neutral colors, camo, moisture-wicking technology for sports use, basic beanies, and “baseball” cap styles
CARHARTT / CARHARTT (WIP)
Carhartt was first known to workers for functionality, now it’s become a millennial basic with a more progressive designer approach thanks to Carhartt Work In Progress (WIP). The brand still prides itself in quality while its distinguishable square logo has developed major street cred.
Accessibility: Available online at carhartt.com and carhartt-wip.com, in the app, click-to-purchase on Carhartt social media platforms, brick-and-mortar stores, a decent amount of online retailers.
Relative Hat Cost: $16.99-$75.99
Common Fabrications: 100% acrylic (beanies), 100% cotton poplin, 100% cotton ripstop, 100% cotton corduroy, 100% polyester
Trims and Details:
Woven square label or graphic embroidered logo in various sizes and colors
Metal ventilation eyelets
PU leather straps for adjusting
Perforated side panels for ventilation
Current Trend Analysis:
Tropical prints, adjustable features, patchworking, waffle or thick cable knits as opposed to a basic rib knit
HOW LEVI’S COMPARES
✓ First gained a following for its durability and quality
✓ Soon became more innovative and adapted to a trendier consumer through designer and influencer collaborations
✓ Accessible through online ordering, brick and mortar stores, and wholesale to other retailers and brick and mortars
✓ Relative Hat Cost: $17.99-$34.50
✓ Offers sustainable fabric options such as organic cotton and recycled cotton and polyester
✓ Levi’s SecondHand offers worn and vintage pieces that resonate with their more sustainable and “thriftier” consumer keeping coveted Levi’s in circulation
✓ Mindful when it comes to both trend and comfort
✓ A recognizable logo and familiar brand identity to the naked eye
URBAN OUTFITTERS / UO BRAND
Urban Outfitters owes a majority of its success to partnering with other brands and influencers who resonate with their younger target consumer. The brand also maintains customer loyalty by offering far more than just apparel and accessories. These categories include home goods, beauty products, and even electronics.
Accessibility: Available online at urbanoutfitters.com, click-to-purchase on Urban Outfitters social media platforms, and at Urban Outfitters brick-and-mortar stores. Lacking other online retailers.
Relative Hat Cost: $19.99-$30.99
Common Fabrications: 100% cotton materials (poplin, canvas, and seersucker, corduroy), 100% sherpa acrylic, 100% acrylic (beanies)
Trims and Details:
Metal grommets
Relaxed fit
Mesh back
Lacking a recognizable logo
Current Trend Analysis:
Unstructured “washed” bucket hats, patchwork detailing, mixed textures, small/short roll knit beanie
Download high-res designs below: