Not just for Schools anymore…
Whenever you hear the word ‘Uniform’, do you think of schools or other educational institutions? Well, there are a whole bunch of categories of uniforms that go beyond schools and colleges.
Uniforms are an important part of offices and the corporate world. Uniforms are common garments needed to be worn by the members of a company or department for the purpose of classification, identification, and sometimes branding. They’re important for a wide range of reasons — from reiterating brand identity, brand recall, suggesting hierarchy, and even safety.
Broadly, uniforms can be categorized as follows -
● Corporate Uniforms
Corporate uniforms are those worn by officials and employees in a corporate setup. These are usually formal wear such as trousers, blazers, shirts, etc. However, a lot of corporates now allow flexibility in dress code, and the concept of #fridaycasuals has been widely accepted. This category of uniforms helps in personality building and creates a good impression in front of clients or those in contact. Some of the examples include marketing and sales staff, such as the employees working in car sales showrooms or insurance companies.
Insider tip: if you and your team prefer a formal yet friendly/approachable brand personality, go for collared t-shirts as the team uniform. Collared shirts (also called Polos) are a great way to look professional and casual at the same time.
● Sports uniforms
Sports uniforms are commonly worn by athletes, cheerleaders, or sportspersons. This category of uniforms requires special attention to detail. These garments usually bear the event logo, sponsorship logos, and identity of the person such as the jersey number and name. These uniforms are designed as per the dress code for each game/sport.
These uniforms provide comfort and flexibility while playing sports, along with breathability to the skin to avoid skin irritation caused by sweat.
Insider tip: dry fits are great, but we have a whole of other premium options for sportswear. Exclusively at El Paño, we also offer a premium lightweight fabric with laser cut holes for a better hand feel and more breathability.
● Event Uniforms
These uniforms are designed for specific events or themes. Such uniforms are worn by employees for a one time event, fest, gathering or any similar occasion. The purpose of these uniforms is the promotion of the event and identification. Such uniforms are commonly used by event managing staff in marriage ceremonies these days. Nowadays there are also popular for themed birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, return gifts, bachelorettes, etc.
Insider tip: simpler designs are easier to vinyl print for those last-minute requirements! Or choose a poly blended fabric to bring down the overall costing.
● Safety Uniforms
Safety uniforms are for professionals working under hazardous conditions such as firefighters, mine workers, construction workers, military officials, etc. These uniforms are specially designed, taking into consideration the safety protocols proposed by the government for that particular job. It is mandatory for employers to provide these uniforms to their employees along with other necessary tools.
These uniforms are highly durable, fire-resistant (in some cases) and usually made out of synthetic fabrics. Other safety measures may include helmets, knee caps, and elbow caps, gloves, and other tools as per the requirements of the job.
● Hierarchy Uniforms
Hierarchy uniforms are color assorted uniforms with similar or same designs for employees working in the same organization but across different positions or departments. A perfect example of hierarchy uniforms is evident in the police force, where there is a different shade of khaki for different posts of officials. These uniforms work in establishing a hierarchy of order in compliance with an organization or department and hence, providing clarity on the superior-subordinate relationship. Such uniforms also work as a psychological stimulation that motivates employees to work hard and acquire a higher position.
● Professional Uniforms
Service uniform or professional uniform is a broader category for different uniforms based on profession or occupation. Taking the example of a doctor, who is identifiable wearing a white coat and stethoscope around the neck — these uniforms create a professional identity for those wearing them.
These uniforms are designed, keeping in mind their purpose and usage under the given profession.
Insider tip: there are a whole lot of options available when it comes to fabrics, blends, and finishes. We suggest you always speak to an expert before choosing any of the options.
● Retail uniforms
Retail uniforms are worn by salespersons and marketing staff. Such uniforms consist of company logos and information. Company advertising and promotion is the main purpose of these uniforms. Some brands also have sales/retail uniforms for their sales staff during promotional events.
Every uniform has a different purpose to serve and a different way of use. Only experts can provide guidance through the process of fabric selection, use of prints, and the selection of color. All the given factors must be taken into consideration while designing a uniform to provide comfort and support to the person wearing it.
Insider tip: We suggest a dry fit or a variation of a dry fit in a polo style — this would mean you get the easy maintenance of the fabric and the professional, sophisticated style of a polo!
● Educational uniforms
Educational uniforms have been worn by students in Schools or Universities for ages, and are one of the oldest types of uniforms. They define discipline and order, which is a huge aspect of a student’s life. School uniforms teach students to dress with decency and take pride in what they wear. Also, school uniforms are consistent, creating a sense of equality. Along with that, uniforms assist in identifying the institute of the student wearing it.
Recently, students from universities have given a contemporary alternative to boring uniforms. University students have independent groups or societies based on their interests and hobbies, and a common cap, teeshirt, or hoodies to mark the unity.
Uniforms are more than just a common piece of clothing, they serve the purpose of branding, identification, safety, discipline, and so on. Hence, it is important to put as much of thought processing and strategy in uniform designing as in any other marketing campaign.
