THE UNIFORM CHRONICLES
NAUMD is pleased to present The Uniform Chronicles, a column written by Leslie Watt McArdle, industry veteran and senior manager of merchandise and product design.

Branding is a big deal in the uniform industry. When most people think about company uniforms, they picture shirts, jackets, and hats all embroidered or printed with a crisp logo. But what about pants? Often overlooked, pants play a crucial role in pulling together a polished, cohesive look for any uniform. The humble pants are more than just an add-on; it’s a fundamental piece that rounds out the entire image, reinforcing the brand from top to bottom.

Having managed pant categories in the past, I’ve learned that a successful uniform program depends heavily on one overlooked factor: consistent pants! Skipping out on a standardized pant choice for employees can lead to mismatched chaos. Imagine everyone showing up in their own take on “work-appropriate” bottoms—baggy khakis, faded jeans, and maybe even some joggers sneaking in. It’s a recipe for inconsistency and dilutes the professional image that uniforms are supposed to establish.

Companies that provide employees with branded shirts but leave them to choose their own pants, is where things often go wrong. No two pairs of pants are the same! From differences in fabric and fit to variations in color, letting employees pick their pants often results in an inconsistent look that can detract from a company’s image. It’s crucial to have pants included in the uniform package to keep things streamlined and presentable.

The Three “C’s” of Pants

Whenever I trained sales teams on uniform products, I emphasized what I call the “Three C’s” of pants: Cost, Color, and Consistency. These three factors are essential for delivering pants that work well across a company’s entire team, whether they’re in the field, behind a desk, or on the move.

1. Cost: Pants need to be affordable, especially if companies are buying in bulk. Cost is often the deciding factor for companies, and it helps to offer a range of options that meet different budget levels without sacrificing quality or durability.
2. Color: A consistent color palette is key to brand recognition. Imagine a group of employees all dressed in slightly different shades of black or navy—uniformity goes out the window, and the branding effect is lost. Keeping pants in line with brand colors or the company’s overall color scheme creates a more unified, professional look.
3. Consistency: By far the most important factor. When employees wear the same style and color of pants, it solidifies the brand image. It eliminates the “anything goes” mentality and keeps everyone looking polished and in-sync. Consistency means that even as employees come and go, the brand look remains the same.The Essential Uniform Pant Line-Up

   The beauty of the pant category in uniforms is its versatility. Every industry has unique needs, and there’s a specific style of pant to match. Here’s a quick run-through of the types of pants that are essential for different industries:

   • Work Pants: Tough and durable, these pants are built for industrial settings like manufacturing plants, warehouses, and construction sites. Reinforced seams, rugged materials, and often added pockets for tools make these pants the perfect match for high-activity environments.
   • Casual Pants: Perfect for customer-facing employees who need to strike a balance between durability and a clean look. Ideal for sales teams, store managers, and other roles where employees are on their feet but still need to look polished.
   • Dress Pants: Typically found in hospitality and hotel settings, dress pants convey a level of formality and professionalism. They’re usually made from more refined fabrics, helping employees maintain a sleek look that fits upscale environments.
   • Chef Pants: Made for kitchens, chef pants are all about functionality and comfort, designed with materials that can manage heat and spills while allowing for ease of movement.
   • Scrub Pants: Healthcare professionals rely on scrub pants for comfort during long shifts, easy washing, and durability.
      
   • Including pants in a uniform program is more than just an afterthought—it’s a strategic decision. Pants that are designed specifically for each role enhance functionality, improve comfort, and elevate the entire brand image.
     
   • So, next time you’re considering uniforms for a company, remember to keep the pants in mind. They may not always get the attention they deserve, but without them, a uniform just isn’t complete.