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The Magazine For A l l School Uniform P ro g r a m s
School Uniforms
$6.00 Issue No. 52
School Uniforms
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School Uniforms
Nick Monjo
Publisher, Editor-in-Chief, Design
nick@fmmg.com
Victoria Monjo
Executive Editor, Director
victoria@fmmg.com
Ellen Katzen
Publication Coordinator
ellen@fmmg.com
Libby Dowd
Senior News Writer
libby@fmmg.com
Deena Campbell
News Writer
deena@fmmg.com
Gina Goldblatt
Editorial Assistant
gina@fmmg.com
Valerie Colella
Assistant Production Manager
valerie@fmmg.com
Mozz Manzoor
Advertising Sales
mozz@fmmg.com
Nick Monjo
Photography
Katherine Banning
Styling and Grooming
Vincent Spadafora
Proofreading
Cover Page:
On the Left, uni-fit shortsleeve polo from Old School Brand by
Wyndam Brands Apparel, (626) 303-2200. Email: ronj@wyndambrands.com.
Skirt, Williamson-Dickie Mfg. Co., (800) 336-7201.
Email: rcrosland@dickies.com.
Socks, A+ from School Apparel, (800) 227-3215.
Email: vince@schoolapparel.com.
On the Right, shirt and skirt, French Toast Official School Wear,
(800) 262-KIDS. www.frenchtoast.com.
Socks, Tic Tac Toe from Cricket Hosiery,
(800) 762-5748. Email: customerservice@tictactoe.net.
Photo by: Nick Monjo.
Models in this issue from: Cover Girl Agency, (201) 261-2042
School Uniforms is published by Fashion Market Magazine Group,
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The Shoe
report
begins on
page 16.
The Cheerleeding
report begins on
page 12.
Contents
Issue No. 52
Retail Profile: Frank Bee 3
Statement from the Publisher 5
Special Safety Apparel Report 6
News Briefs 8
Discussion Roundtable 11
Cheerleading Report 12
Retail Profile: ABC Uniforms 14
Event Report: Dickie’s F.A.M.Trip 15
Shoe & Hosiery Report 16
School Uniforms In The News 18
Athleticwear Report 20
Outerwear & Blazers Report 21
Sweater Report 22
Accessories & Backpacks Report 24
Style 27
Event & Show Calendar 28
The Accessories
Report begins on
page 24.
3

Retail Profile
Frank Bee Enterprises of New York
Frank Bee Enterprises, Inc. first
opened in the New York area in
1956 with the intent to provide school
uniforms for young New York children.
Since its inception, the school-uniform
retailer has expanded greatly, thanks
to the internet, and today services schools
Above, Craig Baker, owner of
Frank Bee Enterprises, Inc.
in Europe, and most recently Nigeria.
While Frank Bee continues to supply
parochial schools in the New York area, it
has been expanding tremendously and is
looking to further advance in the coming
years.
Within the 3,000 square-foot store are
Royal Park, Elder, Blueberry, Newco
brands with school blouses, trousers
and ties the most requested pieces.
Although back-to-school season
occurs only once a year, Frank Bee
Enterprises reports that customers
shop for uniforms approximately four
times per year and spend an average
of $75.00 per visit. To accommodate
the growing numbers during the last
few days of the summer, and for
mothers shopping for kids throughout
the year, Frank Bee Enterprises
offers exceptional service and quality
pieces.
“I’ve noticed there are more lastminute
shoppers in recent seasons,”
said Craig Baker, president of Frank
Bee Enterprises. “With that in mind,
Reported by Deena Campbell
we offer fitting specialists and a
tailor.”
In catering to the school
industry, Frank Bee Enterprises
also offers school classroom, preschool
nap mats and rest cots for
day-care facility, preschool and
home use. In addition, the uniform
retailer sells school uniform’s
to fit any 18 inch doll.
Frank Bee currently offers this
style of uniform in a variety of
plaids to match young girls’ uniforms.
Frank Bee Enterprises, Inc. is
located at: 3439 East Tremont
Avenue, Bronx, NY 10465. They
can be contacted at (718) 823-
9475 or uniforms@msn.com.
Frank Bee is open Mon.–Sat.
9am–6pm and Sun. 10am–4pm.
For more information, go to
Frank Bee’s website at
www.schooluniforms.com. SU
Above, school uniforms and Girl Scout
apparel sold at Frank Bee Enterprises, Inc.
Below, Frank Bee employees (left to right) Richard McMannus, sales manager;
Jeanette Taite, bookkeeper; Jessica Balseta, store manager; Tiffany Ramirez,
customer service employee; and Desire Barrett, customer service employee.
From the Publisher
Nick and Victoria Monjo
It seems every few months a troubled teen borrows an automatic
weapon and walks into his school (okay, this time it
was a mall in Omaha) and blasts away at the kids who
teased him or the teacher who gave him an F.
Schools are stressful places and will always be. That some
tiny percentage of students will occasionally explode in violence
is an unfortunate certainty. And this kind of violence
may happen in any school, and no amount of counseling or
screening can, apparently, predict a catastrophe.
School apparel makers have always offered their version
of protection. Uniforms themselves, for example, have been
shown to lower outbreaks of violence in some schools. It can
be as simple as moving students out of their gang colors and
into outfits that all look the same. Soon after uniforms
became popular in schools, apparel makers offered clear and
mesh back packs that made it easier for school officials to
spot weapons.
The latest innovations take personal security even further:
bullet-proof back packs, stab-proof school uniforms and
uniforms which contain devices that allow radio tracking of
students.
In this issue we provide a discussion of this new generation
of special school uniforms. We talked to both the makers
of this new gear and to those producers who have not yet
gone this far.
In the end, while this approach may make some parents
feel a little more comfortable sending their kids off to high
school, we believe a greater degree of true safety can only be
found in the airport approach.
As a citizen of New York City, where visitors even to the
Empire State Building (not to mention many other locations
which never before had such devices) must pass
through metal detectors, I am comfortable with that
method of protecting those inside a school. Yes, it’s costly
and does suggest the schools have become something a lot
more dangerous than a place of learning. But in the end, is
this not but a logical and practical reaction to the way our
world has changed? — Nick Monjo
5

Stab-Proof Apparel
Bladerunner, a protective-clothing company
based in Britain, developed a stab-proof,
kevlar-lined hoodie. The company’s president,
Adrian Davis, has been in discussion
with schools about putting the kevlar linings
into school uniforms in the future.
“It’s all in development but we’re at an
advanced stage,” said Davis. “We’ve sent
examples of school jumpers to the manufacturers.
I really believe it’s needed.”
Kevlar, a synthetic fiber that is spun
into sheets, is pound-for-pound stronger
than steel. The hoodies are currently selling
for about $130 a piece.
RFID Tags in Uniforms
As reported in the Doncaster Free Press in
Doncaster, UK, tracking devices have been
placed in students’ uniforms at Hungerhill
School in Edenthrope, England. The tracking
devices are RFID (radio frequency identification)
tags, also known as transponders,
which are devices that were previously
used in identifying and tracking animals
and shipments. Trevor Darnborough of
Darnbro, a uniform company in the UK, is
credited with developing RIFID technology
for use in school uniforms.
Although uniform manufacturers in the
U.S. have little experience with this concept,
several have commented on the possible
benefits and issues that such use of the
technology may bring about.
Jim Park, president of Hardwick
Clothing, Inc. expressed concern that RFID
tags in school uniforms would pose a
security issue.
“We haven’t been approached as manufactures,”
said Park. “As we focus on the
manufacturing of blazers, and carry sizes
for older children and adults, the technology
may not be as applicable for us. Our
garments are found in schools, but tracking
6
Safety Brief
Reported by Gina Goldblatt
Rise in School Violence: the Industry Reacts
With violence in schools increasing,
and events such as Columbine
on parents’ minds, manufacturers
and retailers are doing their part
to provide today’s children with
new options. From stab-proof
garments, to bullet proof backpacks,
to the opinions of top names
devices seem to be a more appropriate
option for elementary-aged children.”
Park went on to say that cost might be
an issue as well.
“It would create another step in the
process, which is not necessarily a deterrent,
but one more thing to think about.
Certainly the technology has a place, but
our company has not heard enough about
it to know if it is a device we would utilize.”
Bob Miller, senior
vice president of
National Spinning Co.,
Inc., was skeptical of
RFID application
when he said that
RFID is more about
warehouse manage-
Bob Miller
ment and other logistical
concerns, not
tracking children. However Buddy Cohen
at Stagg Industries thought the technology
to be “a great idea and a valuable tool.”
“The device would provide a possible
deterrent for kidnappers, and a sense of
security in parents,” said Cohen.
“Situations such as children getting lost on
camping trips, which could be disastrous,
would become much more manageable. I
think that anything we can do to protect
kids is a good idea.”
According to Cohen, RFID chips could
be used in public and private schools, and
would most likely become a universally utilized
device once it got started.
Bill Bosch, sales and merchandise vice
president of Classroom School Uniforms at
Strategic Partners, Inc. held the opinion
that RFID tags would not catch on in the
U.S. because they are an added expense.
“Everything is a price commodity, and
putting these devices in all school uniform
garments would be another added
expense,” said Bosch. “Especially around
in the school uniform industry on
RFID tags, these articles present
possible safety solutions for
school-age children.
fall, right before school starts, the process of
coordinating the codes for these tags
between students, parents, and schools,
would create a chaotic atmosphere for
retailers and consumers alike.”
Bosch sees the technology as being more
feasible in private sectors, which have more
money than public sectors, and where the
children are kept under stricter rules.
“This type of atmosphere would be an
easier one to phase such an application into.
Although, RFID tags might be more effective
in inner city schools, these schools do
not have the means that private schools
do,” said Bosch.
Marie Nemphos,
vice president of new
products and marketing
at Yale
Sportswear, Inc., said,
“I think this technology
will go far beyond
the use in school uni-
Marie Nephos
forms. Once costs
associated with imple-
menting RFID come down, all types of
tracking will be conducted using this technology.”
However, Nemphos
also thought that students
and parents
might not be accepting
of the technology being
used in school uniforms
due to the “feelings
of being tracked
in the school commu-
Debra Watton
nity.”
Debra Watton, president of Jack L.
Marcus, expressed a feeling of uncertainty
toward RFID use. As others have stated,
Watton agreed that cost could be a drawback
and mentioned that parents may be
reluctant to pay extra unless there is a
demonstrable benefit. Watton also believes
that many problems could arise especially
over over the specifics of tracking students
outside of school. In addition, issues could
arise from the trading or handing down of
tagged uniforms
Donald Singer,
president of Executive
Apparel, while he has
not used RFID tags in
school uniforms, is
open to the idea.
“To date, we have
not gotten too far in
promoting this tech-
Donald Singer
nology for our blazers
or pants, yet we think
the products, monitoring software, and
equipment are out there and reliable,” said
Singer.
Benefits according to Singer
include better security and
inventory control of garments.
“The biggest problem I can
foresee is the cost required to
monitor a large physical area
adequately, although I think this
cost will come down as the technology
improves,” said Singer. “I
love the concept of RFID tags in
uniforms for monitoring the
younger kids. It has a potential
for keeping track of the kids and
the uniforms. This is good, not
only for security purposes but
also for preventing loss of the
uniform itself. I see it as an effective
method for tracking the
locations of kids that
are at high risk for security rea-
sons or adults with behavioral
problems. For older children or
adults, of course, privacy concerns
will always prevail. I
believe the technology has a place, but the
marketplace for it will be quite small. The
accuracy and potential for abuse of the system
is also an issue. These are big problems
to overcome before the technology ever
becomes mainstream.”
Bulletproof Backpacks
MJ Safety Solutions, a company founded
by Joe Curran and Mike Pelonzi in
Massachusetts, developed a bulletproof
backpack for school children. They come
in two sizes, one for laptop computers, the
other for books, and both are designed to
protect against an array of weapons including
knives.
“I'm a parent and so is Joe and we
wanted a way of keeping kids safe at school
and this is what we came up with,” said
Pelonzi.
Sandy K. Sroka,
owner of Defensive
Backpacks, which sells
the bulletproof packs
said that the backpacks
are equipped with
heavy duty zippers and
made to last at lease
Sandy Sroka
four to five years.
According to Sroka, the
backpacks weigh about
five pounds, and contain a bulletproof
shield that is not visible from the outside.
“The backpacks have been tested with
nine bullets, being shot from 20 feet
Bullet proof backpacks
by MJ Safety Solutions
away, and
nothing
penetrated the shield,” said Sroka.
The backpacks come in two styles, one
with compartments for a water bottle, a
blackberry, and room for books or clothes,
and the other with fewer compartments.
The first style comes in blue, orange,
and black, and the second style comes only
in black.
“Both retail for the same price of $175,”
said Sroka. “The backpacks can be used as
shields, covering children from the head to
the lower back, and if removed and placed
over one’s front, it stretches from the head to
the belt line. Being that the backpacks pass
airline regulations for carry-ons, they are
also very convenient for frequent flyers.”
“MJ Safety solutions has plans to develop
several new models of backpacks,
including a clear bag. Due to the increased
violence in schools in the recent years,
many of them have developed stricter regulations,
some of which have banned backpacks
all together and others only allow
clear backpacks,” said Sroka. She continued
“MJ Safety Solutions is also in the
process of developing camouflage bags for
hunters to add to their already existing
orange backpack option.”
Sroka sells backpacks to customers all
over the U.S., and has plans to expand her
merchandise line to include other school
safety items in the future. In her opinion
the backpacks are “the thing of the
future.”
Sroka went into the business of selling
defensive backpacks as a way to provide
children and parents with a sense of security
in the current atmosphere of heightened
school-related violence.
“I’m not selling paranoia; I’m selling
safety,” Stroka said. “When I was in school,
we couldn’t chew gum, now they are worried
about semi-automatics.”
The MJ Safety Solution backpacks sold
at Defensive Backpacks can be found at
www.defensivebackpacks.com.
Trutex UV Blazers
Trutex, a uniform provider
based out of the United
Kingdom, which supplies
schools all over the world,
developed a UV-protective
blazer. The blazer is not the
first garment the company
has come out with that has
ultraviolet protection qualities.
For several years now,
Trutex has supplied customers
with sweatshirts and
trousers that protect children from the sun’s
harmful rays.
Trutex’s marketing director, Clare Rix
said, “Sun protection clothing is no longer
restricted to the beach. We’ve been
researching the effects of UV protection
provided by our schoolwear for many years
now and feel it is our responsibility as a
schoolwear supplier to lead the way in safeguarding
the health and well being of the
next generation.”
Trutex garments can be found at
www.trutex.com.
SU
7

M. J. Soffe Prevails With Tops
M. J. Soffe Co., a wholly owned subsidiary
of Delta Apparel, Inc. is planing to capitalize
on synthetic fibers for the back-toschool
2008 season.
“Before jersey, fleece and twill were
dominant materials, but now it seems as if
the industry is moving toward synthetic
fibers,” said Steve Wheeler, VP of sales and
marketing. “And, synthetic holds up better
than cotton and poly/cotton.”
M.J Soffe said that even though the
school industry has a long way to go before
it accepts polyester, they are experimenting
with 100 percent polyester and fleece performance
tops. In the meantime, nine
ounce basic fleece continues to do well for
the company, as well as zip hoods, crews
and pants.
“Performance fabrics will become the
standard,” said Wheeler.
For more information visit
www.mjsoffe.com. — D.C.
SanMar Joins Fair Labor
SanMar, a supplier of imprintable school
uniforms and apparel, recently joined the
Fair Labor Association—a non-profit organization
that aims to defend the rights of
workers worldwide. The company’s decision
to become a part of the association was
based on the strong similarities in its existing
workplace code of conduct with that of
8
News Briefs
Reported by Deena Campbell,
Libby Dowd and Gina Goldblatt
the Fair Labor Association.
SanMar supports initiatives that ban
forced labor, child labor, discrimination
and abuse, as well as those that promote
freedom, safety, timely payment of wages
and overtime compensation.
SanMar sells through retail outlets, catalogues,
and the company’s website, which
is www.sanmar.com. — G.G.
“Fresh” Uniform Chemical
BASF, a manufacturer of performance
chemicals for textiles, recently formed a
global alliance with Arch Chemicals, Inc., a
global Biocides company headquartered in
Norwalk, Conn., to market the freshnessenhancing
textile chemical Repudex 20,
under the branded name Purista.
Reputex is an antimicrobial treatment
for textiles such as cotton and cotton
blends, which allows textiles to stay fresher
for a longer time by inhibiting odor-causing
micro-organism growth. Mico-organisms
also fabric deterioration. Textiles that
contain Repudex are advertised as being
“Treated with Purista-Fresher for longer.”
Peter Cowey, international business
manager of textiles at Arch Chemicals, said
that the company joined forces with BASF
to strengthen their existing operations
“making Purista treatment available
throughout the global textiles chain.”
— G.G.
LogoSportswear’s New Age
With so many schools and other organizations
looking for personalized T-shirts,
bags and other apparel, LogoSportswear
.com has been able to expand from one to
three flagship sites and over 100 web
domains, all of which provide schools and
teams with custom designed sportswear.
The three flagship sites include:
Logosportswear.com, TeamSportswear.com
and SchoolSportswear.com. Each site produces
custom designs without a minimum
order as well as providing pre-designed
templates that customers can personalize.
“Our business is growing substantially
and the fact that we have online designers
and design templates, allow people to very
conveniently and easily design and proof
their own sportswear,” said company president,
Frank Nevins. “We have quick turnaround
and rush processing to go along
with that, so we can meet any time table.”
It is because of innovations in technology
and the popularity of the World Wide
Web, that Logosportswear.com has been so
successful.
“The technology allows us to meet the
expectations of customers much better
since they can now do all the work online,”
said Nevins. “They know what they are
getting because they can design, proof and
submit corrections so that all expectations
are met.”
Nevins also thanks the advent of digital printing for improving
the turnaround of his product. Different from the traditional
screen-printing method, digital printing takes computer generated
art and burns it directly onto the apparel and can do so in one
to two days.
Schools have also come to Logosportswear.com for
embroidered woven and polo shirts to meet their uniform needs.
The company is also working on setting up individual online
school stores.
“The school will be able to build an e-commerce site that they
will be able to manage on a turn key basis and they won’t have
to invest in any inventory because it’s all made to order by us,”
said Nevins.
To learn more about opportunities at Logosportswear.com,
visit them on the Web or contact the company
at (203) 272-4883. — L.D.
Delta Hires Gatewood
Delta Apparel, Inc. hired Elizabeth Gatewood as a member of the
company’s board of directors. Gatewood previously held the
position of director of the office of Entrepreneurship and Liberal
Arts at Wake Forest University. Prior to that, she was the Jack
M. Gill Chair of Entrepreneurship and director of The Johnson
Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Indiana
University, and executive director of the Gulf Coast Small
Business Development Center Network in Houston, Texas.
Gatewood also co-founder the “Diana” project, a research
study that focused on women business owner, which earned her
and a colleague an FSF-NUTEK International Award for scientific
work of outstanding quality and importance. Gatewood was
also the author of a book entitled “Clearing the Hurdles: Women
Building High-Growth Businesses,” which was published in
2004 by Prentice Hall.
Delta Apparel, Inc., markets, manufactures, and distributes
branded and private label apparel and owns subsidiaries M. J.
Soffe Company and Junkfood Clothing Company. The
company specializes in casual and athletic activewear, T-shirts,
and fleece products. — G.G.
Artcraft Hangs with the New Biz
Bob Lazar, president of Artcraft Blazers recently noticed a trend
in the industry that does not have to do with apparel.
“I’ve been in the manufacturing business
for almost thirty years and I havn’t
seen many trends as far as blazers are concerned,”
he said. “However, there has been
a tremendous influx of young people and
women in this industry.”
Facing the challenges posed by new and
competitive businesses, Lazar has
Bob Lazar remained steady in his long standing commitment
to the industry.
“It means we have got to get on the ball and do what we have
been doing,” he said. “We are calling and keeping in touch with
companies we don’t know. There are a number of new young
people selling blazers that we don’t know and we want to call
their attention to our blazers.”
Lazar remains confident in his line as it stands ups against
(Continued on page 10)
9

10
News Briefs
(Continued from page 9)
new competition. He stands by the age old
business plan that promises quality and
courtesy.
“We are offering what others don’t
have,” he said. “We stock three different
fabrics in three different price ranges for
men and ladies.”
Styles include an all wool, a 55 percent
Daycron/45 percent wool and an all polyester.
Additionally, for orders of 20 or
more, Artcraft will send blazers for fitting
purposes. This allows customers to find the
right size and helps avoid having to make
costly returns.
Looking back on the last few seasons,
Lazar believes that his business plan is
holding its own amongst the competition.
“We are holding still,” he said. “We’re
standing up to these new companies.”
To learn more about Artcraft Blazers
and its product line, contact the company
at (800) 345-4116. —L.D.
Delta Apparel Drops For 4Q
Delta Apparel reported a first-quarter loss.
The company claims that it was hurt by
slower-than-expected results at its Soffe
unit, and went on to forecast a loss for the
second quarter as well.
The Georgia-based company posted a
quarterly loss of $1.5 million, a significant
loss when compared with a profit of $2.2
million a year ago. However, net sales for
the quarter rose 16 percent to $72.6 million.
The company said results at its M.J.
Soffe unit were driven by a weak retail
environment, and certain production and
sourcing constraints. — D.C.
Educational Outfitters Conf.
This past October, Educational Outfitters
hosted its annual national conference.
Each year the company brings in representatives
from each of its subsidiary stores—
a total of 31—for an opportunity to meet
with vendors, receive training and network.
“It is important to continue education and
build relationships so that they [company
stores] don’t feel like they are on an island,”
said company president, Brian Elrod.
At the conference, the stores receive training
on sales and technology, participate in
roundtable discussions on business and listen
to keynote speakers.
The conference also includes an
expo day in which vendors
exhibit products from their
newest collections. This
past year,
Educational
Outfitters welcomed
32 vendors in the
school uniform, team
sportswear and corporate
apparel categories.
Major vendors included
School Apparel and Royal
Park.
The 2008 conference is
tentatively scheduled for the first
week in November. To learn more
contact Educational Outfitters at
(423) 499-5052. — L.D.
Lands’ End Celebrates 10
This year Lands’ End is celebrating 10
years in the school uniform business. In
honor of this milestone, the company has
Jumper by
Lands’ End.
(Continued on page 19)
Allen Ash
Vice President of Sales
ALMAR SALES
“In general, retailers are dedicating less
and less space to accessories and are looking
to buy generic products as opposed to
private label or branded items. As a company,
rising costs overseas, the increasing
of raw material prices on a daily basis, as
well retail consolidation pose significant
difficulties for us. However, uniforms are
the way of the future. They are very sophisticated
and classy looking, and although
the ongoing debate over school uniforms
continues, more and more studies are proving
that school uniforms increase the safety
in schools and focus the students’ attention
on learning rather than fashion. At the
end of the day, positive responses to school
uniforms are increasing, and the demand
for them is continuously on the rise.”
Bob Roma
Senior Vice President
NEWCO UNIFORM COMPANY, LLC
“A significant challenge in the school uniform
sector is keeping prices competitive
with other manufacturers. Since we, as a
company, make quality products, an obstacle
we come in contact with is satisfying
customers' demands for top quality products
at low prices. Currently, we are satisfied
with the sales volume and loyal customer
base. However, an ongoing challenge
for us is getting new companies on board.
“I think the private section will always
have intact uniform policies on hand and
hopefully public schools will see the positives
of these and expand their policies as
well. Uniforms allow kids the luxuries of
not worrying about what other kids are
wearing, or the resulting competition. In
addition, they bring about a better school
environment that promotes school spirit
making everyone feel as one, as if they
truly are classmates, and hopefully success
in the classroom. At Newco Uniform
Company, our ABCs begin and end with
QRS Quality, Reliability and Service.”
Emil Malinowski
Vice President
DELONG SPORTSWEAR
“I am encouraged to think that companies
that provide school uniforms, particularly
sports uniforms, do not have to worry
about going off the market. New schools
are being opened all the time and our products
have a shelf life, so in order to keep the
uniforms fresh and as effective as possible,
customers are encouraged to replace the
uniforms every couple of years.
“In that regard, the relationship
between our company and its customers is
ongoing. It is also very encouraging to
know that participation levels and interest
in team sports remain high. Participation
in women’s sports is rising and people
remember quality products with good performance
qualities.”
Frank Bo
Owner
BARNEY’S CHILDREN OUTFITS,
“Barney’s plans to carry less uniforms in
the future due to the recent arrivals of
Target and Wal-Mart, which have driven
uniform sales down significantly. Even
when sweater purchases peak around
June or July, in preparation for school,
sales are much lower than they have been
in the past.
“We still carry classic uniform apparel
such as polos and khakis, but uniform sales
in general are not very high. This season,
we have only gotten in a few new items. I
would say that department stores are one
of the biggest obstacles for smaller retailers
of school uniforms right now.”
Roundtable
“What, in your opinion, is the biggest challenge facing school
uniform programs right now? What is the biggest challenge facing
your company? On the other hand, what are the most encouraging
signs that school uniforms will be around for a long time?”
Jack Schofield
President of Sales
SCHOOL APPAREL
“There are numerous challenges facing
school uniform companies these days.
There is a general concern that school uniforms
will expand to encompass styles that
are beyond the breath of typically allowed
uniform apparel. While school uniforms
are not fashion items, some children,
especially older kids in their teen years are
pushing for more fashionable options.”
“The concentrated sales duration for
school uniforms forces parents and children
to come in surges. The sheer volume
of people all at once is a difficulty. School
uniform orders take place from
November to February, but the actual
selling period is only from May to early
August. As it is, being a uniform manufacturing
company, we need to be diversified
and creative in finding other avenues
for selling our products.”
“Challenges that we face as a company
can be placed in two larger categories:
inventory and sales, which are interdependent.
The company is always making
efforts to work closer with retailers, since
the synergy that develops through a positive
relationship between retailer and
manufacturer is irreplaceable. School
Apparel is also occupied as a company in
the control of our inventory, especially in
working with retailers and schools to
advise uniform programs against broadening
their policies too much and thereby
making them impossible to service.”
“The influence we as a company are
able to have over retailers and school uniform
policies connects directly to the
qualifications of our sales department.
Being able to say no to a customer,
because the guidance given to them will
benefit the company at large, is a difficult
skill to learn as well as teach.
(continued on page 19)
11

Cheer Factor’s New Partner
Cheer Factor, a manufacturer of cheer and
dance apparel, recently partnered with
Champion Spirit Group, a competition
company for cheer and dance based out of
Illinois. Champion Spirit Group currently
hosts 18 National events including competitions
in Florida, New Jersey, Indiana,
Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri, Ohio, Illinois
and Washington D.C.
“Cheer Factor has become the soughtafter
company, known for their breathtaking
competition warm-up designs,”
said Michael Bolden, executive director of
Champion Spirit Group. “All-Star cheer
teams and dance studios across the country
know that if they take competing seriously
there is only one company with the
top fashion designers that can create that
unmistakable identity for their team, and
Cheer Factor is that company. We look
forward to a long relationship.”
Alleson Goes For All-Stars
Alleson Cheerleading is widening its focus
for the upcoming season with a spotlight
on high-end custom uniforms with specialty
fabric treatments. Known mainly
for its work in youth in-stock styles, the
company is excited to broaden its appeal
to all ends of the market, including All
Stars teams.
“High schools, colleges tend to be more
traditional, looking for clean lines and a
simple cuts,” said Kim Gillis, director of
marketing for the company’s cheerleading
division. “All-Star teams usually look for
the new and unique uniform looks and are
able to incorporate fashion colors and
trendy cuts. High quality is also something
they go after. With our new custom uniforms
they can keep it simple or make it
sizzle—a basic or streamlined style can be
transformed into a glitzier model by
adding specialty panels and trims.”
New custom looks will offer teams
options such as sequins, stretch lace overlays
and metallic lycra panel and trim
options. They can also slip into new wide
set fashion necklines for a different look.
12
Cheerleading
One of the newest innovations to the line
will be the addition of sublimated uniforms,
bodywear and cheer shorts. Gillis
described that teams will now be able to
custom design their uniforms, including
team logos and other custom art that cannot
be done with cut-and-sew.
As for traditional uniform trends, Gillis
is seeing more open shoulder cuts and
unique necklines.
“The clean and
classic look is something
that’s always
going to be in,” she
said.
To learn more
about the 2008 collection,
contact the company
at (585) 272-
0606 or visit
www.allesoncheerleading.com.
Reported by Libby Dowd
All Star Styles Take the Lead
Above, two new looks from Alleson
Cheerleading’s 2008 collection.
(585) 272-0606. Gillis@alleson.com.
Pyraapparel Beats the Bang
If you have ever taken a close look at a
competitive cheerleading team mid-season,
you may have noticed their arms and
legs are spotted with various bruises and
abrasions. Until recently there has been no
way for a cheerleader to protect herself
from such battle wounds. The nature of
the sport makes skinned knees and
bumped elbows impossible to avoid.
Tired of leaving her team unprotected,
Pam White, a former cheerleading coach
at Clover High School in Clover, South
Carolina, decided to do something about
it. With the help of her husband, Wells,
she created a line of protective apparel
designed specifically for cheerleaders.
Named Pyraapparel (for the steep pyramid
cheerleaders build) the line consists of
long sleeve tops and leggings that feature
high performance padding in the shoulders,
arms and knees that helps protects
cheerleaders from the physical contact
made while practicing stunts. Wells apparel
also features moisture-wicking material
and silicon grips that
help avoid slipping.
“I had a girl who
kept getting bruised,”
said Wells. “We had
to make makeshift pads
and when it came time
for competition we had
to put make up on her
legs.”
Still in the initial
stages of her launch,
Wells has received positive
feedback on her line.
She noted that Methodist
College in Fayetteville
was one team that was
benefiting from the line.
“The guys really like
the girls to wear it,” she
said. “One day a girl didn’t
have it on and when
she elbowed him in a
stunt he asked where her [Pyraapparel]
suit was.”
Wells paid special attention to the
design of the garments as she was working.
“They have to look good, even when
they are practicing,” she commented. The
tops currently come in azure and cayenne
colors and the pants in black only. Coming
shortly, Pyraapparel will add sleeveless
tops with separate padded sleeves and
styles for men.
The line is currently retailing online at
www.pyraapparel.com for $62. Wells also
features team discounts and holiday specials.
To learn more, contact the company
at info@pyraapparel.com.
Pizzazz Proud of ‘08 Growth
Pizzazz Performance Wear is kicking into
high gear for the 2008 season. With company
growth at its
highest, Pizzazz is set
to launch its largest
product offering yet.
“We are aiming to
diversify the line by
adding interesting
new color combinations
and fun, unique
designs,” said vice
president, Fred Older.
“This is our largest
infusion of new products
in over five years
which is pretty exciting
for us.”
Older won’t be the
only one excited this
season. Teams looking
for unique practice
gear and accessories
will really have something
to cheer about.
Pizzazz Performance
Wear is entering a new
category with the
introduction of cheer
shorts. The group will
include different color
combinations and
waistband styles that
no other company is
offering. Older is most
excited about a
crossover v-front waistband
short and a retroinspired
look that will
take a modern twist
with hot pink and
turquoise tones.
Three new top styles have been added
to the collection for unlimited mixing and
matching options. Popular styles include a
tri-color top in contrasting shades, a layered
top and a panel top with metallic
inserts.
Bling will remain a powerful trend for
2008 and to cater to those flashy customers,
the company introduced the
Pizzazz Superstar Collection. The
line includes tops, shorts, skirts
and briefs with an exclusive star
hologram and will be available in
turquoise, hot pink and purple.
With so much loot on the way,
teams will be in need of a proper
carryall. To fill this market, Older
introduced the Pizzazz Mega-Star
Travel Bag with a megaphoneshaped
side pocket. The 23-inch
wide, 11-inch high bag will fea-
Above center and top right, practice gear from Pizzazz
Performance Wear. (330) 264-7771. E-mail:
olderf@pizzazzwear.com.
Far right, pratice wear from the Superstar Collection,
also from Pizzazz Performance Wear.
ture space for personalized embroidery,
a silkscreen star pattern and
an mp3 pocket with headphone
access. Bag will be available in hot
pink, black, navy, red, royal blue
and purple. For more information
on the line, contact the company at
(330) 264-7771. SU
13

For the past four years, ABC Uniforms
has managed to be a one-stop shop for
uniforms, which offers affordable school
uniforms in a variety of sizes and colors
year round.
“The concept of the store is to
take the stress out of uniforms and
supply quality, affordable uniforms,”
said store owner, Deborah Foster.
“We have quality and affordable uniforms
and are an exclusive school
uniforms store—all local public and
private school logos are available
with minimal time waiting.”
Although the 1,000 square-foot
store has only been around since
2003, Foster has noticed a few trends
over the past few years. She believes
that more and more schools are
switching to mandatory school uniforms.
The central Florida School Uniform
store prides its self in being the only retail
store in Hernando country that’s completely
dedicated to school uniforms.
“Other
retailers may
sell school
14
Retail Profile
Above, student Morgan Foster
(and daughter of owner Deborah
Foster) modeling a uniform.
Reported by Deena Campbell
ABC School Uniforms of Florida
uniforms, but by the time December rolls
around the uniform section is shrinked
down to a tiny corner," said Foster. “We
offer school uniforms year round and
Above, sign in front of Brooksville, Florida’s
ABC School Uniforms.
that’s what really separates us from the
rest.”
Every uniform the ABC Uniforms
offers is on site so customers can come
and leave with a new uniform in hand.
“We don’t want our customers to wait
for orders to come in," said Foster.
"Every uniform is available and ready to
Assortment of School Uniforms from ABC School Uniforms.
take home immediately, and that’s the
way its always been."
“Nine out of eleven elementary
[schools] in our county have uniforms so
this presents a need for wider sizes to
accommodate all kids,” said Foster.
The average uniform size is from 7
to 12, with a typical price for a polo
top and bottom $20.00. Sizes are also
available in husky, chubby, slim and
petite. Top requested brands include
Universal, French Toast and Blue
Generation.
ABC School Uniforms has plans to
move later this month to a bigger
space in order to increase the amount
of products they offer, providing more
of a variety of pieces to fit youngsters.
Proper fitting is so important to the
Florida-based store, they have a company
that does alterations and also assists in
dressing rooms.
ABC Uniforms is located at 7292
Sunshine Grove Road. Brooksville,
Florida 34613.
For more information call (352) 597-
8373. SU
During the weekend of November 2,
Williamson-Dickie Manufacturing
Company invited School Uniforms magazine
to Fort Worth, Texas, for an exclusive
insider view of Dickies operations, the
Dickies brand and the Dickies-sponsored
“Race For The Riches” promotional event.
During the tour, School Uniforms magazine
viewed water repellency machines,
tear testers and evaluation scales that
Reported by Deena Campbell
assist Dickies in manufacturing quality
garments. A line review of Dickies products
included collar tops, flare and flex
waist pants and a slew of new products
other divisions.
This year, for the first time, Dickies
partnered with Richard Childress Racing
(RCR) for the “Race for the Riches” event.
During the event, Grand prize winner,
Nikki Kelly, announced Jeff Burton as her
Event Report
Dickies Gives Insider View of Operations and Racing
NASCAR driver Jeff Burton, Nikki Kelly and Richard
Childress, Owner of Richard Childress Racing.
From left to right, top row:
Veneta Georgev of Edelman;
Deena Campbell of School
Uniforms; Jay Gordon of
Uniforms; Pete Angle of
American Hunter and
American Rifleman; Jon
Ragsdale; Joe Link of
Progressive Farmer; bottom
row: Connie Bastyr of
Handy Magazine; Christina
Voss and Courtney Clegg of
Edelman; Andrea Potts of
Dickies; Heidi McKinley of
Edelman; Susan Ragsdale
and Lisa Boggs of
Edelman.
Below, a display of Dickies school uniforms. Dickies’ newest high-visibility garments.
driver of choice at the Texas Motor
Speedway.
Unfortunately, Burton didn’t win the
Dickies 500 NASCAR race that would’ve
awarded Kelly $500,000.00, but fun was
had by all at pre and post-race ceremonies.
For more information about Williamson-
Dickie school uniforms and headquarters
visit www.dickies.com. SU — D.C.
Susan Ragsdale with husband, John Ragsdale, VP of Marketing
and Business Development for Dickies and Thomas Knox of RCR.
Below, An Elmendorf Tear Tester that
determines a fabrics tearing strength.
15
(Photo Courtesy of Dickies Testing Guide)

Shoes, Socks & Hosiery
Footwear Adds Fashion With Color and Style
Academie Footwear Hires Reps
The New York based shoe company
Academie Footwear recently hired three
new sales people: Lester Cohen, who will be
responsible for New York City and upstate
New Jersey; Michael Berezin, who will
cover Maryland, New Jersey, and
Pennsylvania; and John Brewer, who will
cover Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana. All three
will report to Andy Jones, National Sales
Manager.
Academie Footwear, a division of
Synclaire brands, was started by Andy
Jones and Bruce Smith-Grant, both of
whom were originally with Bass and Co.
Popular styles for the brand include handsewn
loafers and the box and saddle shoes
that are the traditional dirty buck style
with red brick soles.
For more information visit www.synclaire.com
or email Andy Jones at
ajones@synclaire.com. — D.C.
Atlanta Hosiery’s 400 Styles
Since 1935, Atlanta Hosiery Company has
manufactured and distributed socks and
hosiery, under the Two Feet Ahead label,
to independent retailers around the U.S.
Today, the family-owned-and-operated
company carried more than 400 styles of
socks and hosiery for children.
Currently, Atlanta Hosiery is working
on a children’s collegiate line and has the
licenses to use the logos from approximately
40 schools around the country
including the Univ. of Georgia, Univ. of
Michigan, Penn State, Virginia State, Ohio
State and Alabama Univ. Socks range in
size from newborn to 13. According to the
company, basic uniform socks continue to
be strong with knee socks available in burgundy,
hunter, navy, white, black and
brown, and seamless bobby socks available
in khaki, navy and white.
For spring, Atlanta Hosiery Company
is looking to introduce lacy socks for girls.
They are still in the planing stages, but the
company is excited about the possibilities.
For more information visit
www.twofeetahead.com. — D.C.
16
Dinkles Marches With Spin
For the past 21 years, Dinkles
Marching Band Shoes have been manufactured
and distributed by Up-Front
Footwear, Inc. in Lebanon, Penn. All shoes
are laboratory tested for durability,
abrasion, flexibility, and material
strength, and in keeping with the
company’s mantra of comfort,
Dinkles is introduced Spin, a
new shoe designed specifically
for color guards.
Spin, available in black and
tan, has is a split-sole look,
split-sole design, and
split-sole function
allowing the shoe to
be worn indoors
or outdoors
without the
wearer having
to worry about
wet feet or the
sole unraveling.
The upper is a
combination of
leather and
polyurethane, which
ensures easy cleaning.
Jeffrey Savoca, president
of Dinkles, reports that a
major trend in the marching
band industry is the
lack of white shoes.
According to Savoca
approximately 80 percent
of schools are choosing black
marching band shoes.
“Uniform styles can be very
bland and schools usually select
basic black shoes to accommodate
their basic uniforms,” said
Savoca. “Also, schools want
black shoes because with white
shoes it’s much easier to detect mistakes.”
Another trend Savoca notices is
the eagerness to pay for less expensive
shoes. Years ago, schools
would spend
Reported by Deena Campbell
and Gina Goldblatt
more money for band shoes, but more recently,
schools are opting for inexpensive shoes.
Dinkle shoes are retail from 95 cents to
$30. Sizes for girls range from 5 1/2–12,
a n d
for boys 3 1/2–16. All Dinkle shoes have
flexibility and rubber soles
for traction and safety. Plastic soles
are not offered and shoes can be
customized.
For more information visit
www.dinkles.com or call 1-888-
DINKLES. — D.C.
Coco Jumbo Gets
Dainty
New York-based school
shoe company Coco
Jumbo Shoe, Inc. is set to
introduce a new quilted
Mary Jane shoe for back-toschool
2008.
“The new Mary Jane
has ballerina flavor,” said
Sonny Roffe, vice president
of sales. “It’s young
and sweet and it offers
a fresh new look
for school.”
Available in
black, navy and
brown, with a
tiny bow on top,
Coco Jumbo said that
the new Mary Jane adds a bit
of innocence to school uniform
shoes.
In the young boys sector,
Coco is set to launch the
Walker shoe, a double velco
school shoe with a converse-
Right, socks by Tic Tac Toe
from Cricket Hosiery,
(800) 762-5748.
Email:
customerservice@tictactoe.net.
Shirt and Skirt by French Toast
Official School Wear, (800) 262-
KIDS. www.frenchtoast.com.
styled bottom. Coco Jumbo said that it will
be continuing with its basic oxford shoe for
next year; however, the company is updating
the sole and creating a thicker rubber
bottom than previous seasons.
The quilted Mary Jane retails for $19.99
and the Walker shoe is priced at $24.99.
For more information visit www.rasolli.com
or call (800) 516-3304. — D.C.
Willits Puts Comfort #1
Pennsylvania-based school-shoe company,
Willits Footwear Woldwide will be moving
toward back-to-school 2008 with
offerings of fashionable school shoes with
comfort features.
“Comfort and constancy is where
we see strength in our products,” said
Stan Leshko, a spokesman for Willits.
“That coupled with styling is what kids
want to wear.”
According to Willets, comfortable gel
inserts, removal footbeds and padding are
what differentiates their shoes from
competitors. But most important according
to Leshko, comfort must be backed
with consistency.
“Consistency is paramount to the success
of a brand,” said Leshko. “And we’ve
always introduced fashion-forward styles
that crossover and last for years. We are
sticking to what we know and do well while
striving to make our products better.”
Slip-ons, penny loafers and classic dirty
buck suede shoes are strong and will continue
to be for the coming season.
Willits Footwear shoes are available in
four sizes: narrow, medium, wide and extra
wide.
For more information visit www.willitshoe.com.
— D.C.
Sock Choices at Cookies
Joe Beyba, a uniform specialist at Cookies
(Continued on page 26)
below, shoes from willits footwear worldwide,
(800) 544-3633. email: MAIL@WILLITSHOE.COM.

18
In The News
Jumping on the Bandwagon: School Uniforms
A bill in the West Virginia state legislature
to put all state students in uniforms, sponsored
by state senator Truman Chafin,
passed in the senate and has moved onto
the House of Delegates, according to a
report in the March 3 Register Herald. The
several years old bill is what Chafin hopes
will be the beginning of a statewide policy.
If adopted, the bill will include a
$10,000 incentive to help subsidize the
costs of the uniforms.
Powell Junior High School in Mesa,
Arizona, became the first full-size junior
high school in the Mesa district to require
its students to wear uniforms, according
to an article in the May 23 Arizona
Republic. Parental approval was
acquired through a vote on school uniforms,
which showed that 83 percent of
parents were in favor of them. According
to Powell Principal Nancy Guerra
Roberts, other schools in the district are
going to require an 80 percent majority of
parents in favor of school uniforms in
order to instate a uniform policy. The uniform
standards put in place in Powell
Junior High required that students wear
khaki bottoms (either pants, capris,
skirts, or skirts) and a polo shirt in either
red, white, or blue.
The Journal Times of Cedar Rapids,
Iowa, reported June 20 mixed reviews of
the McKinley Middle School’s newly
implemented school uniform policy. The
policy prohibits students from wearing
jeans, sweat pants, outside pockets,
stripes, and hoods and requires students
to wear school-approved uniforms. Some
parents are against the idea because they
believe it will take the teacher’s focus
away from teaching. In addition, those
against the policy feel that public schools
should not have such requirements.
Others fully support the school’s decision
and believe that uniforms are in the best
interest of their children.
Helping students avoid bullying and
teasing are major reasons to support
Reported by Gina Goldblatt
school uniform dress codes according to
an editorial in the November 1 Asheville
Citizen-Times, in North Carolina.
Columnist Susan Reinhardt in her piece
advocated school uniforms, claiming that
much of the emotional and physical abuse
that is sometimes found in schools stems
from those being picked on not being up
on the new fashion trends. Reinhardt referenced
a Wall Street Journal study and
other writings on the efficacy of school
uniforms. With movies such as "Mean
Girls," exemplifying the realities of fashion-based
cliques and harassment, the
issue has moved to the forefront in the
debate over school uniforms in public
schools. Reinhardt believes that school
clothes should be geared towards the
school experience, an environment in
which learning is the top priority. Fashion
can be a priority on the weekend, when it
does not interfere with school.
Detroit mayor Kwame Kilpatrick
announced the donation of $10,000
worth of cold-weather school uniforms for
students at Ralph Bunche Elementary,
Duffield Elementary/Middle School and
Burns Elementary/Middle School, according
to a November 8 article in the
Detroit News. Ninety percent of the students
at Ralph Bunche are poor enough to
qualify for free or reduced lunches, and
therefore have difficulties in paying for
the required uniforms. The money came
from Kilpatrick’s staff, businesses and
outside individuals. Kilpatrick and the
superintendent of Detroit public schools,
Connie Calloway, plan to meet more frequently
in the near future to come up
with ways to help the students get the
most out of their education.
Georgia’s News 3 reported November
8 that the Sumter County school district
put forth a measure to require all students
to wear uniforms at all of the schools in
the district. It was hoped that the uniforms
would help keep students out of
trouble, and reduce unhealthy fashion
competition. Students at Sumter
Elementary found the uniforms beneficial
as they saw uniforms as a way of representing
their school. In addition, the students
found that the uniforms helped promote
feelings of collectivity and pride.
According to the new school uniform
guidelines, students are to wear khaki,
navy or black pants, with skirt and dress
options for girls. Tops are white, khaki or
navy. Doug Becton a parent who lives in
the school district said, "I've been for it
the whole time; I like uniformity, it helps
to take away from the style aspect of
everybody and focuses more on their
character." The school has seen a significant
decrease in discipline referrals since
the installation of the new dress code,
according to counselor Sharron Marcus.
The one complaint some parents have had
is about the lack of choices. In response to
this, Sumter County officials have introduced
a spirit day once a week. On these
days, students are allowed to wear school
colors or clothes with their mascot on
them, other than uniform clothing.
School uniforms may help students to
avoid having put up with the pressures
created by fashionable clothes, or the lack
thereof, especially teenage females
according to a November 11 report in
The Morning News, out of Cleveland,
Ohio. Uniforms save teenagers and their
parents money, as well as contribute to an
atmosphere and school community devoid
of the unnecessary pressures associated
with students’ clothing choices. In addition,
school uniforms keep principals
from having to set cumbersome dress
codes, which takes time away from education
enrichment initiatives and projects
on which faculty members could otherwise
focus more intently. According to the
article, the emphasis on student creativity
and personal expression becomes a part of
their academic work, rather than their
clothing. SU
In respect to the earlier issues mentioned
pertaining to the expansion of uniforms
encompassing more fashionable or trendy
apparel, only so many of these products
are beneficial to the company. It really is
a very delicate balance that must be
struck between providing customers with
the products they want, and keeping the
News Briefs
(Continued from page 10)
revamped its line with new styles and
sizes. Sixty percent of this year’s back-toschool
offerings were brand new.
Most requested this season were updated
plaid options and Lands’ End responded
with nine new prints.
“Kids will be able to choose from several
styles that pack the plaid punch,” said
Kira Gutknecht of Lands’ End’s Public
Relations Department. The company is
now offering popular school plaids in colors
such as navy and yellow, green and red
and blue and gray. Styles available include
skirts, skorts and jumpers. Other updates
include improved durability and style
selection.
“Typically, parents will be sent to one
retailer for basic polos and oxfords, another
for jumpers and skirts and yet another
for shoes and socks,” said Gutknecht.
Added features include stain and wrinkleresistance,
adjustable waistbands and free
hemming. “Outfits not only survive until
the last day of school but also can be
passed down from one child to the next,”
she added.
Land’s End has also made purchasing
school uniforms easy and efficient. The
company has added the Dress Code Finder
tool to its web as well as expanded its
school uniform offerings at Sears for those
who line to shop in-store. To learn more
visit, www.landsend.com/school. SU
— L.D
(Continued from page 11)
best interests of the company as a whole in
mind.
In essence, School Apparel strives to control
special orders, educate sales personnel
about every aspect of sales, including
wholesale concerns, and keep in mind the
bigger picture while each intricate detail is
being attended to. None of this is an easy
Event Profile
During the August market,
more than 120,000
people from 80 countries
gathered in Las Vegas for
the MAGIC Marketplace.
Manufacturers and dis-
Roundtable
task, as there is not just one issue, on the
contrary there are many issues that all of
us in the industry are constantly striving
to address.”
“However, the increase in school uniform
use in public sectors, as well as our strong
existing customer base encourages us.” SU
Cherokee in Vegas
tributors from all ends of
the apparel industry
came together to show off
their latest and greatest
products. School
Uniforms magazine
Reported by Libby Dowd
and Ted Vayos
stopped by the Strategic
Partners booth to meet
with company executives
and find out the latest
from one of the industry’s
largest suppliers.
Above, Andy Beattie, senior Vice President, with Bill Bosch, Vice
President of Sales and Marketing, both for Classroom Apparel.

Yale Adjusts to NCAA Rules
According to Marie Nemphos, vice president
of new products and marketing at Yale
Sportswear, team sports’ uniforms have
recently undergone many innovative changes,
due to changes in NCAA rules. One such
change is the mandatory requirement of
white uniforms for basketball teams’ home
games, which has already been implemented,
and will be seen in high schools nationwide
by 2008. Because of this rule, it has become
necessary for high school basketball players
to have two uniforms, one that displays their
school colors, and another that is white,
NCAA has also put forth guidelines for the
amount of allowed embellishments schools
can add to the uniform. For example, women
can only have a second color on their lacrosse
jerseys if it is three or less inches wide. Men’s
uniforms for 2008 are required by the NCAA
to have a single, solid color jersey and no
embellished piping such as color blocking.
Nemphos said, “In light of the recent rule
changes, and the desire of team players to
wear nice looking garments regardless, Yale
Sportswear, has re-engineered their jerseys to
reflect the necessary changes.
Yale Sportswear’s new jerseys include
ribbed, four-way stretch jerseys with a mesh
appearance and ladies’ jerseys with two and
one-eighth inch side panels and very sleek
necklines. Kilts for field hockey and lacrosse,
both very popular sports in Maryland where
Yale Sportswear is located, have also been
redesigned so as to adhere to NCAA standards.
The new kilts have side panels all the
way down and saddle backs, which are extra
panels in the back that merge together in a
performance efficient style.
Nemphos said, “Field hockey and lacrosse
uniforms were previously made up of heavier,
pleated kilts and oversized jerseys. The material
they are made from now is performance
four-way stretch without a lot of extraneous
material that would inhibit movement.”
“Men’s jerseys at Yale Sportswear are
often made of four-way tricot mesh material
with moisture management properties, while
still maintaining that classic mesh look. The
way the fabric reflects the sun gives the
appearance of vertical or horizontal line
embellishments. Womens’ jerseys are being
made out of our trademark CD3 material,
20
Athletic Wear
Reported by Gina Goldblatt
Technology Meets Style
which is a combination of I-Mesh and fourway
stretch fabric that gives the uniform an
elastic quality as well as lends to its efficiency
in performance,” said Nemphos.
The most in-demand colors at the company
are the FGMA sporting goods association
approved colors, which are mostly navy, forest
green, red, and black and sometimes
include cardinal and purple.
“In club lacrosse,
lime green was the
popular color this
summer and is expected
to be the popular
color next summer as
well,” said Nemphos.
Yale Sportswear
Marie Nephos also sells shorts to dealers,
who then sell them
to schools for use as gym uniforms. Nemphos
said, “To California alone, we sell 3,000 pairs
of mesh gym shorts a year.”
New in activewear at Yale Sportswear is
the activeX apparel line—a ladies only product
line that contains activewear for a variety
of activities ranging from yoga to field hockey.
Taking into account the silhouette of the
female form, the line was designed specifically
for women. Character ribbon embellishments
and lime green hues were popular
characteristics of items purchased from this
line according to the company. The most
popular items for women were misses’ and
women’s tricot, nylon mesh shorts with side
character ribbons and men’s four-way stretch
shorts with a side panel gray strip down the
side of the leg.
In order to keep products fresh and updated,
Nemphos said that he attends new product
meetings every two weeks.
“At these new product meetings there are
representatives from sales, customer service,
operations, managers, and a mid-Atlantic
sales rep. I am constantly doing new fabric
research and prototyping in order to stay up
on new trends and regulations. Then, before
marketing our products, committees vote on
apparel options and we debut items at public
shows. The company is constantly changing
fabrics, evolving designs, and creating new
samples,” said Nemphos.
Yale Sportswear is based out of
Federalsburg, Maryland.
Performance Wear Increase
At Atlantic Coast Cotton, the company has
recently seen “a higher demand for performance
wear” according to Ralph
Abercrombie, vice president of marketing at
the company. The performance wear he
spoke of was a moisture-wicking garment,
many of which are woven, and some of
which are treated with chemicals. Indeed,
some of the new performance wear is antimicrobial,
stain-resistant, and anti-wrinkle.
Abercrombie exclaimed that he was surprised
when he recently tabulated the number
of performance-apparel companies to whom
Atlantic Coast Cotton supplies and came up
with 62. According to Abercrombie, compression
wear made a brief appearance in the market,
but was not successful due to there being
very little space on the apparel to embroider or
personalize. The only spot that could be
embroidered was the mock turtleneck.
“However, what is selling, is a whiter silhouette
version of compression wear, which is
loose-fit, a sort of oxy-moron,” said
Abercrombie. “People want the soft fabrics.
Those shirts sell for $10 a shirt, whereas cotton
tees are 98 cents.”
Another in-demand item is mesh shorts
with a longer inseam. According to
Abercrombie, the shorts are being used as
school uniform gym apparel casual, as well as
for sports teams uniforms, while some of his
customers are buying them purely for the
sake of fashion. Even with all of these new
apparel advances in material and style, one of
the most popular item in athletic wear for
school uniforms remains to be the plain,
50/50 cotton and polyester T-shirts.
“They are easy to clean, and less expensive
than 100 percent polyester shirts,” said
Abercrombie.
Looking forward, Abercrombie said,
“Next year's Whispering Pines pro label will
include embroidered polos in a rainbow of
colors and patterns. Some will have stripes on
the arms or the body, or a color block inset.
There will also be new long-sleeves polos and
Johnny collars for ladies.”
Atlantic Coast Cotton has a single location
distribution center, which is based out of
Washington, DC. It supplies sportswear to
companies, screen-printing and embroidery
markets, and schools.
SU
Reported by Libby Dowd
Blazers & Outerwear
Winter Trends Stick with Tradition
Exec. Apparel Boosts Blazers
Executive Apparel has amped up its
blazer offering in preparation for the
cold winter season. This year the company
will be introducing new short blazer
looks, three and four
button designs and better
quality fabrics.
“I believe that the
new interest in blazer
looks will continue,”
said company president,
Donald Singer. “We also
believe that school customers
are ready to be
shown new products that
are more socially acceptable.
Administrators
want their kids in uniform
and the only way to
make this happen is to
give them products that
meet their social needs.”
With this in mind, the company has
made additions to its ELITE line of
school uniforms.
The line offers students
a polished
look in a soft, dense
oxford fabric.
“I think it will
take the market by
storm when it gets
Donald Singer out to the students,”
said Singer.
For the end of the year, Executive
Apparel will be introducing a new line
of uniforms in 55/45 Poly/Wool. This
extremely washable and wearable
fabric will be available in blazers,
pants and skirts.
As the New Year rolls around, more
changes will be instituted into the
brand’s line up of uniforms.
“We are always looking to our customers
for their specific unaddressed
needs that are waiting to be translated
into something we can develop for the
marketplace,” said Singer. “It’s our
curiosity that keeps us fresh and ahead of
the competition. It is in our mission to be
as creative as we can be, and to always
be the market leader in terms of practical
change.”
Left, New styles
from Holloway
Sportswear,
(937) 497-7575.
Cathy.Billing@
hollowayusa.com
Holloway Warms Up Winter
This winter season Holloway Sportswear
will be offering a variety of styles to warm
up to. “We have introduced thirty three
new items. Our largest offering to date,”
said Bill McIver of the Holloway
Sportswear sales department.
Updated outerwear offerings this season
provide students with extra motivation
to make the cold trek to class.
Additionally, the design makes it
easy for schools to add their logo to
the front shoulder.
Of the new styles, the Omni fleece jacket
known as Glacier, and the Micron poly
shell jacket called the Trademark, have
been well received by customers. Glacier is
a 16.1-ounce filament polyester knit
jacket that features Berber fleece,
Spectrum wind resistant panels and an
adjustable open bottom hem. The unisex
style includes sizes from XS to 3X and is
available in several new color combinations:
navy/graphite, charcoal/black,
royal/graphite, scarlet/graphite, pink/ice
gray and black/graphite.
The Holloway Trademark jacket is a
wind- and water-resistant pullover jacket
that features front zippered pockets, elastic
cuffs and an adjustable open bottom
hem with shockcords. The jackets
come in sizes XS–3X in black, navy,
royal and scarlet with graphite accents.
For more information on the styles
or other products Holloway is carrying
this season, contact the company at
(800) 331-5156.
Classic Looks Cool at ASW
Trends may come and go, but classic
apparel styles are always a hit, especially
when it comes to outerwear.
ASW Jackets, manufacturer of athletic
outerwear, has seen a spike in sales of
its traditional outerwear styles.
“Our satin baseball jacket has had
its ups and downs,” said Terry Moore,
executive vice president of the company.
“It was real hot 15 years back and
then sort of fell off. It has picked up
and been our top seller for the last
three years.”
The company also offers an oxford
style that is a 200 veneer nylon and bit
more durable than the flashy satin style.
Other styles that Moore has seen
increased demand for in recent months
include the quarter zip fleece and the
full zip fleece. In these, and other styles,
ASW jackets carries just about every
school color and sizes ranging from 6/8
youth to 5 XL. This broad range of size
and style make ASW Jackets popular
among the school age crowd. To learn
more about the company, call (888)
448-3221.
SU
21

Sweaters
Industry Discusses Latest Trends and Demands
V-Necks Strong at Cookies
Omar Alfy, the assistant store manager at
Cookies, a uniform apparel store in
Brooklyn, NY, said that V-neck sweaters
have been the most popular recently.
Cookies carries Blueberry, Cookies and
French Toast, T.Q. Knits and U.S. Polo
brand uniforms. Newer styles carried by
the store have zippers and hoods. In girls
sweaters, the store also carries a halflength
bolero sweater. To jazz up the regular
cardigan, U.S. Polo has added front
ribbons as well as scalloped sleeves and
hems. A third choice for girls at Cookie’s
uniform shop is a T.Q. Knits nylon, cotton
and spandex blend, hooded sweatshirt, for
a slightly more snug fit. While newer styles
are being brought in as options, the company
still carries basic button-up
sweaters.
Joe Beyba, a uniform specialist at
Cookie, said that the basic cardigan by
Blueberry is always a big hit with uniform
customers as well. It comes in navy, burgundy,
green, gray, black, cranberry, and
brown. The store carries four styles of
cardigan including the basic button front
style for boys and girls, as well as three
other styles for girls including a high neck
button front sweater, a zipper-front, and a
Fine-knit Sweater by French Toast Official
School Wear, (800) 262-KIDS.
www.frenchtoast.com.
22
Reported by Gina Goldblatt
sleeveless vest that some schools allow as a
sweater option.
“Another fashionable option for girls is
a navy French Toast brand zip-up sweater
with pompoms on the zipper pull,” said
Beyba.
The best-selling color at Cookies has
recently been navy blue, with burgundy at
a close second. The bulk of the store’s
sweaters have been selling by August, to
both private and public schools. The cotton
and polyester blend has been the most
popular sweater Cookies stocks, while
they have also been supplying customers
with 100 percent polyester and acrylic
fabrics.
“In order to stay in touch with the new
trends, research is constantly being done
in the main office. We also offer schools an
extra ten percent off of uniform apparel,”
said Beyba.
Alternatives at Lordes
“Trends in school uniform sweaters are
moving away from basic cardigans, and
towards more fashionable alternatives,”
said Elliot Braha, president of Lordes, a
retail apparel store which carries school
uniforms under the French Toast, U.S
Polo Association, and Universal Form
brands. “Youngsters have recently become
more attracted to longer lengths, zip-ups,
and cable knits, and less interested in
more basic items. There is also very little
interest in pullovers. Kids are mostly looking
for zip-ups.”
Selling primarily to local schools, the
most in-demand colors are navy, black,
and gray for boys and mostly navy for
girls. Braha said he has noticed “a slight
interest in burgundy sweaters for girls,”
which he believed to be local trend.
“Boys don’t buy sweaters,” said
Braha. “They are more interested in
sweatshirts and hoodies. The sweaters
that Lordes has been selling the most of
are cable knit zip-ups with pompoms and
hooded zip-ups with some cable knit.
Lordes also offers the required school
uniform fleece crewnecks tops and crew
Bolero Sweater by U.S. Polo Assn. available
at Cookie’s The School Uniform Specialists.
(877) 942-6654. Email:
afalack@cookieskids.com.
bottoms and the less demanded thermal
lined crews by French Toast and Hanes.
Although preferences are tending towards
more complex and fashionable items,
basic cardigans are still purchased to
place patches or emblems on.”
The most comfortable sweaters,
according to Braha, are French Toast.
“All of the sweaters are easy to clean,”
he said. “In the past there has been complaints
about pilling, but French Toast
and other brands have remedied that issue
by producing anti-pill items out of acrylic
fabrics.”
The bulk of sweater sales at Lordes
happen at the beginning of the school year
in September, before it gets cold, according
to Braha. In order to keep school uniform
options innovative and interesting,
Braha said he “shops the market and
looks for interesting fashions and trends.”
“I am also very responsive to my customers.
I listen to them, and let their interests
and questions drive my decisions.”
Lordes is a retail apparel shop located
in Jersey City, N.J.
Kids Place: Tradition Rules
“Uniform sweaters at Kids Place [located
in Elizabeth, N.J.] range from fashionable
French Toast items to traditional
Blueberry cardigans,” said Ria
Hernandez, the company’s uniform
administrator. “Parents of uniform children
are tending towards the more traditional
sweaters, even though they are more
expensive. The sweaters are heavier and
of higher quality.”
There has also
been a recent
increase in the sales
of “transitional
apparel such as
fleeces and windbreakers.”
For girls,
heavier cable
Ria Hernandex sweaters with zippers
and a sleeker look,
such as French Toast’s hooded Pompom
sweater has been, according to
Hernandez, a very popular item.
“Boys tend to purchase more traditional
sweaters, making the classic three button,
two pocket cardigan the most purchased
among male customers,” said
Hernandez. The most in-demand color
has been navy, for both public and private
schools, reports Hernandez.
Kids Place also does embroideries for
schools that have enlisted them as uniform
suppliers.
In order to remain progressive in the
apparel company, Hernandez remarked “I
am constantly in the market, both in
schools and on the streets-searching for
the newest fashion trends. Often what
happens, is that mainstream styles transition
into the uniform market and become
incorporated into school apparel. Staying
up-to-date in this industry is essential.”
Kids Place is a retail apparel store
located in Elizabeth, New Jersey.
Jack L. Markus: Sweater Trends
Jack L. Marcus, a retail apparel store and
online seller of school uniforms nationwide,
has recently added a new lighter
fabric, flat-knit French Toast sweater to
its collection of girls uniform apparel.
According to the president of the company,
Debra Watton, “It’s too early to tell
how the sweater is going to do. Currently,
the traditional crew neck sweater is outselling
the new fine knit French Toast
sweater, but girls that have purchased the
fine-knit sweater commented on its comfort
and light-weight fabric.”
At the beginning of the school year,
when according to Watton, the bulk of
sweater sales happen, the store introduced
red and white into the color palette of
girls’ sweaters, but they continue to sell
traditional colors such as navy and hunter.
The demand for embroidered sweaters
and cardigans has increased for the company
as well, leading to the creation of
stock logos such as bumblebees and little
hands in addition to school logos or children’s
names. Staying up on new trends is
a priority with Watton who emphasized
the importance of “listening to kids and
watching what is going on with fashion
trends and styles.”
“It is our job to reconcile these emerging
trends with what is appropriate and
acceptable for school,” said Watton. “We
do this by working with manufactures and
designers as well as communicating with
schools to find the right balance.”
Jack L. Marcus, Inc.’s corporate
office is based in Milwaukee,
Wisconsin. For more
information go to
www.marcusuniform.com.
Right, cardigan, shirt and
pants, all from Arrow,
(212) 868-7920. Email:
jgoldstein@fishmantobin.com.
CA Store Talks Sales Trends
According to James Lee, owner of New
Star Shirts in Sylmar, Calif., sweater sales
tend to spike around November or
December.
A more traditional
store, Lee said the
company does well
for itself selling basic
crew neck sweaters.
A new addition to the
sweaters, are hoods.
The company has
Debra Watton continued to sell crew
neck, unisex sweaters
in navy, black, hunter green, charcoal,
heather gray, and white made of acrylic
blend fabrics to both public and private
schools. New Star carries brands such as
French Toast, but also does custom order
embroideries.
New Star Shirts
Corporation is an
apparel retailer that
also sells school
uniforms. SU
23

KTP Designs With Stripes
Custom-made neckwear company, KTP
Design Company, will continue to manufacturer
silk and polyester ties for backto-school
2008. Pat Walsh, president of
the New York-based company said that
24
Accessories
Reported by Deena Campbell
Belts, Headbands and Bags Prevail for 2008
stripes will remain popular, and that they
will continue with the hydropose—stain
resistant, 100 percent silk or polyester—
line of apparel products.
“The stain-resistant ties are great for
young boy’s schools,” said Pat Walsh,
president of KTP Design Company.
“We’ve had great responses from schools
all over the country.”
KTP produces ties that are crafted
using the wet-dye process, allowing
them to produce designs of detail with
colors that won’t bleed.
Additionally, neckwear can be custom-made
to fit school colors and
themes.
Average retail prices for the silk
ties are $18.75, and polyester ties
can be purchased for $15.50. For
more information visit
www.customtie.com. — D.C.
R&L Adds Product
Ten-year-old New Yorkbased
belt company R&L
Belts will be offering elastic
in its school belt collection
for upcoming seasons.
Available in black, navy
and brown, the company
said that the elastic
belts will be major
hits for back-toschool
2008.
Renee Fox,
owner of R & L
Belts, said that for
the boy’s collection,
braided belts
and basic one-inch belts will
be popular. She also said
that successful styles for
girls include the one-inch
heart and star perforation
Left, backpack by Horizon
Dance, (800) 561-8654. Email:
sales@horizondance.com.
belts in black, navy and brown.
All belts are made domestically, even
the company’s new military buckle belt
that will debut for spring.
Average prices for the belts are $5 and
are available in retail stores throughout the
country including: Southwest Uniforms,
Urban Uniforms, Supper Kids, Fashion
World, Century 21 and Cookies. Sizes
range from small
to extra large with plus sizes also
available. For more information call
(630) 469-2727. — D.C.
JanSport Opens Near HQ
Backpack company, JanSport opened a
new company Store in Appleton,
Wisconsin, located adjacent to the JanSport
headquarters on N820 County Road CB.
The shop has the newest merchandise
from collegiate apparel to backpacks and
technical packs, in addition to travel collections
and accessories for children.
“While we wanted the new store to offer
customers an expanded JanSport product
presentation to include first quality backpacks,
luggage and collegiate clothing, it
was critical that it still offer the $5.00 to
$10.00 college decorated clothing and
other merchandise deals that have brought
shoppers to the JanSport company store
from all over the Fox Cities,” said Ann
Daw, JanSport director of marketing.
In addition to being JanSport's custom
division headquarters, Appleton, Wisconsin
is the birthplace of JanSport's collegiate
apparel and remains the place where it’s
clothing is still manufactured. — D.C.
Ee Dee Trim Co., Inc.
Uniform and accessory supplier, Ee Dee Trim
Company is in the process of redesigning its
website, www.eedeetrim.com, to provide
viewers with more images and an easier
ordering process. In addition to the upgraded
website, the company has plans to introduce
a catalog with new and existing products.
The company reports that the new
website and catalogue will be available in
December.
In other news, Ee Dee Trim said that it
has added wristlets to its line of school
accessories that are designed to hold various
items including lunch money and ID’s. In
addition, the company said that they
redesigned their headbands to make them
more vibrant and bright.
“Our new headbands have more ribbons
and are filled with plaid designs,”
said Bryan Sauter, director of marketing
for Ee Dee Trim. “It’s a big deal for
moms and daughters to have accessories
match with uniforms, so we decided to
add plaid headbands.”
In keeping with the plaid theme, Ee
Dee Trim also added plaid lunch boxes
and handbags.
While plaids seem to be most popular,
coming in at second place are reversible
brown and black belts and leather braided
belts. Since the company introduced
them last year, sales have been excellent.
“People love that we offer high quality
items at great prices,” said Sauter.
Looking to the future, Ee Dee Trim
has plans to launch plaid 14 inch by 26
inch memory boards for young girls and
include a bar-coding system that will
make all products shelf-ready upon
delivery. For more information visit
www.eedeetrim.com. SU — D.C.
Cheerleading bows from
A Finishing Touch,
(866) 955-5229.
Email:
info@schoolbows.com.
Above, leather braided belt,
lunchbox, and wristlet (right),
all by Ee Dee Trim Co.,
(314) 231-7494.
Email:
Bryansauter@eedeetrim.com.
Above, headbands by
Ee Dee Trim Co.,
(314) 231-7494. Email:
Bryansauter@eedeetrim.com.
25

(Continued from 17)
Uniforms, said that knee socks are the
most popular for school uniforms.
“Knee highs and tights come in navy,
burgundy, green, yellow, and white,” said
Beyba. The most popular color is navy,
followed by white, for both tights and
socks. In the start of the school year, nylon
knee highs are the most in-demand and as
the weather gets cooler, kids start buying
heavier socks.”
Also according to Beyba, boys tend to
wear lower socks, and not demand as
many fashionable options as the girls do.
Besides the popular knee socks, there are
ankle socks in similar colors for girls.
Cookies carries Blue Heaven, Trimfit,
French Toast, Sketchers, U.S. Polo,
Longstreet and Piccolo sock brands as
well as their own private label products.
The company has six locations in New
York City: three in the Bronx; two in
Brooklyn; and one in Queens, as well as an
e-commerce website at www.cookieskids.com.
— G.G.
Piccolo Rules With Kakhi
New York-based Piccolo Hosiery said that
khaki knee-highs and tights are very popular
and that they serve as an alternative to
brown colors that are predominant during
winter months. While the khaki was very
strong for back-to-school 2007, the company
believes that the dark beige color will
also remain a hot color for next year.
As for triple roll socks—one of Piccolo
Hosiery’s best sellers—orange and gold are
becoming more and more popular, especially
in warmer areas.
“Everyone just really seems to like
orange and gold,” said Peter Morales,
Northern and International representative
for Piccolo Hosiery. “School kids in the
south really like them because they can
wear them a lot because the weather is
warmer than the north.”
Although leg warmers have become a
huge trend in the industry, Piccolo Hosiery
said that they are not manufacturing them
because the the garment’s popularity isn’t
consistent.
“Leg warmers are in one year and out
the next,” said Morales. “Besides, it’s more
of a fashion item, and school kids primari-
26
Shoes, Socks & Hosiery
ly wear them because they keep their legs
warm, not to make fashion statements.”
Piccolo Hosiery manufacturers heavy
tights, cable knit, flat knit and basic socks
in many colors. Tights range in size from
sizes zero months to 16, and socks range
from 3–11. Piccolo Hosiery also ships out
deliveries the same day orders are placed.
Right and inset, school sport socks with black toe and
heel (available in varying lengths)
from School Apparel,
(800) 227-3215. Email: vince@schoolapparel.com.
“We are the largest manufacturer of
fancy socks, we have more designs than
anyone; that’s our main strength,” said
Morales.
Piccolo Hosiery can be found in
department stores, small chains, boutiques,
and catalogs nationwide. For more
information visit piccolohosiery.com. SU
Style
Left, shirt and shorts by Liz
Claiborne from Fishman & Tobin,
(212) 868-7920. Email:
jgoldstein@fishmantobin.com.
Belt, Stagg Industries,
(361) 293-2311. Email:
sandy_onhaizer@tandybrands.com.
Knee-highs, by Tic Tac Toe
from Cricket Hosiery.
(800) 762-5748. Email:
customerservice@tictactoe.net.
Below, shirt and skirt,
Williamson-Dickie Mfg. Co.,
(800) 336-7201. Email:
rcrosland@dickies.com.
Shoes by Eastland Shoes, (207)
865-6314.
Email:
dpolansky@eastlandshoe.com.
27

2008
february 6-8
ASI Dallas
Dallas Convention Center
Dallas, Tex.
(877) 274-7469
asishow.com
february 8-10
Imprinted Sportswear Show-Orlando
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, Fla.
(800) 933-8735
issshows.com
february 12-15
MAGIC kids
Las Vegas Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nev.
(818) 593-5000
magiconline.com
march 25-28
105th Annual NCEA Convention
& Exposition
Indiana Convention Center
Indianapolis, Ind.
(202) 337-6232
ncea.org
march 29-april 1
68th Annual Conference National
School Board Association
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, Fla.
(703) 838-6722
nsba.org
february 29-march 4
Camex 08
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
San Antonio, Tex.
(800) 622-7498
camex.org
28
Calendar
Tradeshows and Industry Events
march 5-8
School Products Expo 2008
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, Fla.
(800) 395-5550
schoolproductsexpo.com
march 7-9
Imprinted Sportswear Show-
Atlantic City
Atlantic City Convention Center
Atlantic City, N.J.
(800) 933-8735
issshows.com
april 2-4
2008 CCRA Conference & Expo
Grand Sierra Resort
Reno, Nev.
(800) 622-7498
ccra.org
april 4-8
87th Annual National Association of
Elementary School Principals (NAESP)
Convention & Exposition
Gaylord Opryland Resort &
Convention Center
Nashville, Tenn.
(800) 651-2842
naesp.org
april 9-11
ASI Las Vegas
Sands Expo Center
Las Vegas, Nev.
(877) 274-7469
asishow.com
may 6-8
ASI New York
Jacob Javits Convention Center
New York, N.Y.
(877) 274-7469
asishow.com
may 29-june 1
Dallas Market Accessories &
Apparel Show
Dallas Market Center
Dallas, Tex.
(800) DAL-MKTS
dallasmarketcenter.com
july 18-20
Imprinted Sportswear Show-
New England
Rhode Island Convention Center
Providence, R.I.
(800) 933-8735
issshows.com
july 22-24
ASI Chicago
McCormick Place Convention Center
Chicago, Ill.
(877) 274-7469
asishow.com
august 9-11
Imprinted Sportswear Show-Schaumburg
Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel &
Convention Center
Schaumburg, Ill.
(800) 933-8735
issshows.com
september11-13
Imprinted Sportswear Show-Atlanta
Cobb Galleria Centre
Atlanta, Ga.
(800) 933-8735
issshows.com
october 3-5
Imprinted Sportswear Show-
Fort Worth
The Fort Worth Convention Center
Fort Worth, Tex.
(800) 933-8735
issshows.com
SU