Q1 Apparel Planning Guide | Wholesale Custom Apparel & Sublimation

The most successful apparel programs don’t happen by accident — they’re planned early. Q1 is a critical window for brands, teams, distributors, and organizations ordering wholesale custom apparel. Decisions made in January impact inventory availability, branding quality, and how smoothly spring and summer programs roll out. Plan it now, and your future self will thank you.

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Q1 Apparel Planning Guide: Wholesale Custom Apparel, Sublimation Printing & What to Order When 

This Q1 Apparel Planning Guide breaks down what to order, when to order it, and how to customize it, with a focus on sublimation printing apparel, performance fabrics, and smart branding choices. 

Why Q1 Apparel Planning Matters 

January is more than a reset — it’s when smart buyers get ahead. For companies sourcing wholesale performance apparel, planning early means better pricing, better timelines, and better results.

Early Q1 apparel planning allows you to: 

What to Order When: A Q1 Breakdown 

January is the ideal time to build a branded layering system. These pieces offer versatility, long wear windows, and strong perceived value — making them staples in any custom branded apparel program.

Focus products: 

Why these products work: 

January orders set the foundation for a cohesive look that carries through multiple seasons. 

February is where brands level up by moving beyond basics into cut and sew apparel wholesale options. 

Focus Products:

Custom construction allows for: 

These styles are ideal for: 

If your goal is differentiation, February is the time to invest in custom sublimation apparel that feels premium and intentional. 

As spring approaches, buyers shift their mindset toward outdoor events, warmer weather, and visibility. 

March is the perfect time to stock up on performance apparel printing projects like: 

Ordering now ensures you’re ready when demand increases — without scrambling for inventory. 

Make It Yours: Branding Placement Matters 

Branding isn’t just about the logo — it’s about where it lives. 

Thoughtful logo placement on apparel ensures your brand is visible, professional, and wearable. 

Popular placement options include: 

Left Chest & Sleeve Hit 
A clean, polished look ideal for corporate and team programs. 

Full Front 
Bold and eye-catching. Perfect for brand-forward graphics and promotions. 

Full Back 
Maximum visibility. Great for events, sponsors, and statement branding. 

Strategic branding placement apparel choices help turn blanks into long-term brand assets. 

Printing Processes at a Glance 

Choosing the right print method is just as important as choosing the right garment. Here’s a quick breakdown of dye sublimation vs screen printing. 

Dye Sublimation Printing Apparel 

Best for:

Performance fabrics and all-over designs 

Pros: 

Cons: 

Look & Feel: 

The dye becomes part of the fabric — ideal for sublimation printing on performance fabrics. 

Screen Printing 

Best for: 

Cotton tees and simple logo applications 

Pros: 

Cons: 

Look & Feel: 

Ink sits on top of the fabric, creating a raised texture. 

Q1 Apparel Planning Checklist 

Use this checklist to guide your wholesale apparel planning: 

✔ Plan Q1 apparel needs in January 
✔ Build a branded layering system 
✔ Invest in cut-and-sew styles by February 
✔ Stock up on spring solars in March 
✔ Choose logo placement intentionally 
✔ Match print method to fabric and end use 

Final Thought: Plan Early, Perform Better 

Q1 sets the tone for the entire year. Brands that plan early benefit from smoother launches, stronger branding, and fewer last-minute issues. 

Whether you’re ordering wholesale custom apparel, exploring sublimation printing apparel, or building a seasonal strategy, thoughtful Q1 planning ensures your apparel performs as well as your brand does. 

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