Appeal of Embroidered Corduroy Hats for Streetwear Branding

The Appeal of Corduroy Hats

Corduroy hats have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. The distinctively textured fabric gives them a retro vibe that appeals to young and old alike. For clothing brands and designers, embroidering corduroy hats offers an opportunity to showcase creativity while capitalizing on a trend.

The Corduroy Comeback

Not long ago, corduroy was viewed as outdated and unfashionable. But in today's style landscape where 1990s and early 2000s fashion is glorified, corduroy has made a major comeback. What was once deemed as "uncool" is now a versatile fabric that exudes laidback style.

From jackets to pants, skirts, dresses and yes...hats, corduroy is no longer reserved for professors and grandparents. The fabric has been given new life by streetwear brands and young designers who appreciate corduroy for its texture and durability.

Why Corduroy Hats?

Hats are a staple accessory in the streetwear world. They finish off a look and allow free expression of a brand's style. Corduroy hats stand out from other hat fabrics like cotton, wool and canvas due to their distinct wale pattern.

The ridges of corduroy add texture and visual interest, taking a hat from basic to bold. Corduroy also provides warmth, making it ideal for fall and winter wears. And much like the fabric itself, corduroy hats have a vintage vibe that appeals across generations.

Embroidery for Branding & Customization

For new and established clothing brands alike, custom corduroy hats present an opportunity for showcasing branding and designs. Embroidery takes these hats to the next level with custom logos, motifs and unique detailing.

Logos & Lettering

The most basic embroidered customization for corduroy hats is logo branding. Having your brand name or logo stitched onto a corduroy hat makes it instantly recognizable. Embroidered lettering and logos stand out boldly against the ridged texture.

Go for large, prominent logo embroidery on the front of a hat for maximum brand exposure. Or try a small, subtle logo or lettering embroidered along the back adjustable strap or side area. This is an easy way to incorporate branding without overwhelming the hat's design.

Unique Detailing

Beyond logos, corduroy hats can be taken to the next level with unique embroidered accents and detailing. Replace a basic corduroy patch with custom shape embroidery. Stitch conversation-starting words, phrases or imagery onto the sides or back strap.

Take inspiration from classic varsity jackets by adding a personalized name or year embroidered on the back side of a hat. The options are endless for subtle yet impactful customized detailing.

Screen Printing vs. Embroidery

Screen printing and embroidery are two common techniques for customizing hats. Both have their advantages and work well on corduroy hats. But embroidery stands apart when you want bold, eye-catching dimension.

Dimension & Texture

Screen printed designs lay flat against the hat surface, providing visual pop of color and imagery. But embroidery adds an extra physical dimension to any design. The stitched texture adds depth and visual interest.

Combined with the existing ridge pattern of corduroy fabric, embroidered accents make the designs intrinsically textured. This takes customization to the next level for a hat you can truly feel and touch.

Quality & Precision

Screen printing allows for vibrant colors and cost effective application. But embroidery offers unmatched precision and detail, since logos and designs can be digitally stitched. This high quality customization makes your brand stand out.

While screen printing fades over time, embroidery maintains a bold, structured look with added durability. So adorned hats can be enjoyed for longer without losing quality.

Inspiration for Custom Corduroy Hats

Ready to try your hand at customized corduroy hats? Look to retro styles from earlier eras for inspiration. Vintage sports team logos, varsity letters and iconic movie imagery are all fair game for embroidery.

Vintage Vibes

Corduroy's comeback is thanks in no small part to vintage appeal. So don't be afraid to borrow style inspiration straight from past decades when brainstorming hat designs.

Mid-century educational films, 1960's television shows and iconic movies can provide fonts, color palettes and graphic styles perfect for custom hats. Add a hint of nostalgia to any logo or detail embroidery for extra appeal.

Modern Touches

Vintage throwback style is key, but don't be afraid to also incorporate unapologetically modern and youthful design elements too. Contemporary color combos, new takes on classic fonts and abstract logos feel right at home on corduroy.

Contrast ultra-retro embroidery shapes with a modern three-dimensional approach to logo and text. Combining old and new gives unexpected depth and edge.

Displaying Custom Creations

Once your customized corduroy hats are complete, don't keep them hidden away. Display them proudly alongside other branded goods in-store or at markets and pop ups.

In Your Store

Corduroy hats make excellent accessorizing display pieces to outfit mannequins or decorate your sales floor and walls. The bold textures and colors grab shopper eyes and perfectly set off apparel.

Place corduroy hats atop piles of branded sweatshirts and tees. Use them in storefront vignettes alongside other logo items like embroidered jackets and totes for strong brand reinforcement.

On Your Site & Social Feed

Don't save corduroy hats just for in-person displays. Add them throughout your eCommerce site and inject them into social feeds too. These custom pieces lend great visual interest to website product galleries, Lookbooks and Instagram stylings.

Artfully arranged flat lays and styled shoots featuring logo embroidered corduroy hats elevate any apparel offering. Show shoppers how it's done by demonstrating lots of inspired ways to sport your hats.

FAQs

What color thread works best for embroidery on corduroy?

Bold and vibrant colored threads like red, yellow, white and black make designs really pop against the texture of corduroy fabric. Neutral and darker threads can also create nice contrast.

Where do you place embroidery on a corduroy hat?

Typically the front center panel of the hat is best for prominent logos or designs. Side panels, back strap and curved tops all offer space for subtle details or additional flair.

Does embroidery alter the flexibility of a corduroy hat?

If embroidery is concentrated in too dense or large of a design, it can slightly affect the ability to fold a corduroy hat. But strategically-spaced lettering and detailing should not impact flexibility.

Is embroidery or stitching better for adding patch designs?

Since patches add thickness on their own, embroidery is typically best for attaching them and defining their shape to a corduroy hat. Patches should lie flat enough for stitching.

What file format works best for embroidery designs?

.DST file format is the most widely compatible design file for manufacturing embroidery designated for automated machines. AI and PES files can also be used.