We have a proper Yorkshire value that drives our business, and we know it matters to you to. So rather than buying cheap many times (or bundling Sh••e as our Ops Dircetor says) we do things properly.
1. Price vs Value
The cheapest garment rarely proves the cheapest over its lifetime. Consider how long it will last, how often it will be replaced and the impression it creates.
2. Intended Lifespan
Is this clothing for a one-day event, a six-month campaign or everyday use over several years? Buy for the lifespan you actually need.
3. Fabric Weight
Heavier isn't always better. Consider the GSM (grams per square metre) of the fabric alongside how and where the garment will be worn.
4. Technical Performance
Does the garment need waterproofing, breathability, wind resistance, stretch panels or thermal insulation? The specification should match the working environment.
5. Fit for Every Team Member
One style rarely suits everyone. Consider unisex, ladies' fit, modern tailored cuts or classic fits so every member of the team feels comfortable and professional.
6. Decoration Suitability
Not every garment performs equally with embroidery, or DTF printing. Choosing the right garment can significantly improve the finished result.
7. Colour Consistency
Can you obtain exactly the same shade twelve months from now? Established brands usually maintain colour consistency far better.
8. Wash Performance
How will the garment look after 30, 50 or even 100 washes? Colour retention and shape recovery often separate premium garments from budget alternatives.
9. Comfort Throughout the Working Day
A garment worn for ten hours needs to be comfortable, breathable and allow freedom of movement.
10. Corporate Appearance
Your clothing represents your business. Consider whether it projects the image you want customers to see.
11. Stock Availability
Can additional garments be ordered quickly when new employees join? Continuity is often overlooked until it's needed.
12. Brand Longevity
Will this product still be available next year, or is it likely to disappear from the range? Consistency makes future ordering much easier.
13. Sustainability
Look beyond recycled fabrics. Consider responsibly sourced materials, recycled polyester, organic cotton and manufacturer recycling initiatives such as Regatta Professional's Recycle.Me programme or Result's recycled collections.
14. Repair or Replace?
Some premium garments justify repairing, while others are designed for economical replacement. Think about the total ownership cost.
15. Safety Requirements
Does the garment need to comply with EN standards, high visibility regulations or flame-retardant requirements? Compliance should never be an afterthought.
16. Layering Options
Can garments work together as part of a complete clothing system? Fleeces, softshells and waterproof jackets often perform best when designed to layer.
17. Future Growth
If your workforce doubles next year, will you still be able to source matching garments? Established collections make scaling much easier.
18. Environmental Impact
Consider the garment's journey from manufacture to disposal. Increasingly, organisations are looking for products that support wider ESG and sustainability goals.
19. Cost Per Wear
A £15 polo lasting 15 washes costs more per wear than a £30 polo lasting 100 washes. Value should always be measured over the garment's working life.
20. Expert Advice
Perhaps the most important consideration is choosing a supplier who understands garments rather than simply selling them. The right advice at the beginning can save significant cost, frustration and inconsistency later.
Good workwear isn't about buying the cheapest garment. It's about buying the right garment for the job, the people wearing it and the image your business wants to project. At Apparel Monkey, we help you make that decision with confidence.
