In a town where rain is practically a brand of...Read More
From Crewnecks to Caps: The 2026 Custom Merch Trends You’ll Want First
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
In a town where rain is practically a brand of its own, style in Ketchikan means being prepared, practical, and proudly local. For 2026, custom apparel is doing more than just keeping teams warm, it’s helping businesses make a statement. Whether you run a small shop downtown, a fishing charter on the docks, or a café that’s part of Ketchikan’s daily rhythm, custom merch is where function meets identity.
Let’s dive into the 2026 custom merch trends every Ketchikan business will want first.
1. The Crewneck Comeback
Comfort meets cool in 2026’s biggest merch essential, the crewneck. Once seen as simple workwear, it’s now a year-round favorite for locals and tourists alike.
Why it works in Ketchikan:
- Keeps your crew cozy on chilly docks or misty mornings.
- Layers perfectly with rain jackets and vests.
- Offers a wide, flat print area for bold, centered logos.
This season, crewnecks are going beyond basic cotton. Think soft fleece blends, eco-conscious materials, and oversized fits that bring a modern, laid-back vibe. If your business wants to sell or gift apparel, this is the must-have piece of 2026.
2. Eco-Friendly Everything
Sustainability isn’t just a global trend; it’s a local value. Alaskans are naturally connected to the environment, and 2026 will see an even greater shift toward eco-friendly printing and materials.
Pacific Printing is helping local businesses make greener choices with:
- Organic cotton and recycled blends that reduce waste.
- Water-based inks that minimize environmental impact.
- Durable garments that last longer, reducing turnover and cost.
When your merch is made responsibly, your brand tells a story people are proud to wear. For businesses rooted in Ketchikan’s wild beauty, that’s marketing gold.
3. Vintage-Inspired Logos and Typography
Retro is still in and 2026’s designs are all about nostalgic modernism. Clean lines meet throwback fonts, and bold color blocks nod to the vintage athletic aesthetic.
Whether you’re updating your business uniforms or launching a new merch line, consider:
- Distressed prints that look broken-in from day one.
- Old-school script logos that blend classic and cool.
- Muted vintage palettes like washed navy, mustard, and rust.
These touches make your brand feel timeless and authentic—perfect for Ketchikan’s mix of rugged charm and coastal nostalgia.
4. Embroidery on the Rise
Screen printing will always be a staple, but embroidery is stealing the spotlight in 2026. From subtle chest logos on fleece jackets to bold lettering on caps, embroidery adds texture and polish.
Why embroidery works for Ketchikan businesses:
- It’s long-lasting, even in damp conditions.
- It looks professional on staff uniforms and outerwear.
- It’s perfect for hats, beanies, polos, and quarter-zips.
For those who want merch that feels elevated without losing that down-to-earth Ketchikan touch, embroidery delivers every time.
5. Caps, Beanies, and Bucket Hats
Headwear is the ultimate local merch piece—and it’s getting a style upgrade.
- Caps: Still the go-to for casual uniforms and giveaways, but now with curved brims, tonal embroidery, and vintage washes.
- Beanies: Soft knits and fold-over styles are staples for Alaska winters. Add a small logo patch for subtle branding that pops.
- Bucket Hats: A surprise trend for 2026, they’re making their way from summer tourists to local outdoor gear.
Each of these pieces gives your business extra visibility in everyday life—and they’re among the easiest items to stock and sell.
6. Minimalist, Monochrome Designs
Ketchikan style is functional, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be sleek. Minimalism is the biggest aesthetic shift for 2026. Instead of loud graphics, brands are leaning into clean, simple looks that let the logo do the talking.
- Monochrome prints on similar shades (like black-on-charcoal or cream-on-tan).
- Tone-on-tone embroidery that feels high-end.
- Small front logos with large back prints for a balanced visual flow.
This approach pairs well with any brand identity; from modern and techy to rustic and local.
7. Limited Drops and Local Exclusives
Instead of one big merch order, more businesses are moving toward seasonal or limited-edition runs. This keeps designs fresh, boosts urgency, and builds excitement around your brand.
Try ideas like:
- “Rain City” capsule collections for locals.
- Seasonal artwork tied to annual events like the Ketchikan Blueberry Arts Festival.
- Collaborations with local artists or partner businesses.
Pacific Printing can help you plan small-batch runs with fast turnaround—so your next drop hits the market before anyone else.
8. Staff Apparel That Doubles as Streetwear
Gone are the days of boxy uniforms. In 2026, staff apparel is designed to be worn on or off the job. Think modern cuts, soft materials, and subtle logos that make employees proud to rep your brand anywhere in town.
For Ketchikan’s tourism-driven businesses, this is a marketing win. Your team becomes a walking advertisement whether they’re grabbing lunch or catching the ferry.
9. Coastal Colors and Alaskan Textures
Ketchikan’s surroundings are the best inspiration for 2026 color palettes. Expect to see:
- Deep sea blues and storm grays mirroring the coastline.
- Earthy greens and muted browns that feel organic.
- Soft neutrals inspired by driftwood and fog.
These tones photograph beautifully, match most brand colors, and keep your merch looking timeless across seasons.
10. Local Printing Over Online Vendors
Finally, the most important trend of all; keeping it local. While big online print services can feel convenient, they can’t match the quality control, communication, or community connection of a local shop.
By printing with Pacific Printing, Ketchikan businesses get:
- Faster turnarounds with no surprise shipping delays.
- Hands-on design help from a real local team.
- The ability to see samples in person before ordering.
- Support for the local economy that helps keep Ketchikan strong.
When your brand is made by your neighbors, it shows.
Get Ahead of the Trend
The new year is the perfect time to refresh your merch line, update your uniforms, or finally start selling branded apparel. Whether you’re drawn to cozy crewnecks, bold embroidery, or minimalist designs, the 2026 trends give you room to express your brand authentically.
Let your merch reflect your story, your team, and your town.
Pacific Printing is ready to help you bring your 2026 vision to life—from design to print, with quality that lasts through every season.
Start your next custom order and be the first to wear what’s next.
