A truly emblematic accessory, the apron has been an essential part of any wardrobe for centuries, being functional clothing with multiple facets. Initially, for obvious reasons of practicality and protection, the apron quickly played a role in the image and representation of a large number of trades. Its history dates back to antiquity, when Roman craftsmen would wear leather aprons to protect themselves from splashes and scratches while they worked. Peasants, millers, blacksmiths… the apron made of thick canvas was an integral part of the clothing worn to do these dirty jobs, where the risk of burns and cuts was high. But the apron wasn’t just there for protection, even back then! As shown by the fact that nobles were already wearing silk versions, often embroidered with their initials: their aprons at the time were aesthetic and decorative, as well as being symbols of their social status. In short, since time immemorial, the apron has combined business with pleasure and this is increasingly the case. Its traditional character is widely appreciated by many professions, and the list is growing all the time, as we shall see from a number of examples.
What questions should you ask yourself when choosing an apron? How do you find your way around the many styles offered by TopTex? What technique should I use to customise an apron? This article will help you to choose the right model for your objectives, the quantities to order, your budget and, of course, the finished article you’re looking for!
Customised aprons: always the right choice!
Customisable aprons offer many practical and aesthetic advantages for a wide variety of professions. Here are a few examples:
K8000
Polycotton apron without pocket
They are unisex, one size or adjustable.
One of the main advantages of the customisable aprons available on TopTex, is that they are suitable for all, whatever their gender or size. Products that will fit all sizes, and above all, that can be adjusted so as to remain comfortable for everyone!
For example, if you want to offer aprons to students at a cookery school, a single adjustable model in a neutral colour will suit all ages, genders and body shapes. The K8000 model from Kariban is ideal for a tight budget, with the comfort and quality of polycotton, washable at 60° to eliminate the kind of stubborn stains that are common in the kitchen.
They are practical and hard-wearing
Aprons are a must-have for professionals who tend to pick up stains easily, or who sometimes handle sharp tools. As well as allowing them to keep their accessories within easy reach, aprons, especially thick canvas ones, are an important feature of their protective workwear.
Gardeners are always on the move and so need to keep their tools close at hand: pruning shears, gloves, etc. The WK840 gardener’s apron from WK. Designed To Work is perfect, with its tough, waterproof Oxford fabric and multiple pockets for storing equipment and your mobile phone. The little extra? It’s made from 100% recycled polyester, for a more environmentally-friendly material!
WK840
Unisex waterproof eco-friendly gardening apron
K8003
Vintage cotton apron
They’re stylish, unique and easy to customise
With its handmade, authentic feel, the apron can be used to enhance your image and look. It can be retro, or more discreet, and different textures can give a unique and distinctive look. Denim, camouflage, short or long… What’s more, because it’s easy to customise (a subject we’ll return to later in this article), the variations are limitless!
For “traditional” professions, such as barber or grocer, a vintage model is just the thing! Kariban offers a retro version of the apron, with the K8003 version. Aged look and leather-effect straps for a guaranteed old-school appearance! Needless to say, the fabric is hard-wearing to withstand frequent use and washing.
Choosing the right apron: our advice
As you can see, we can offer lots of products and possibilities. To help you make the right decision, here are some of the key features to check, depending on what you’re looking for.
First tip:
From the outset, ask yourself how the apron will be used, as this will determine the choice. Should it protect the wearer? What kind of environment will it be used in (damp, hot, cold, with frequent movements, etc.)?
Form and style
An apron can be long, with straps, and cover from the torso to around the knees. This is known as the bib apron. It is particularly popular among professionals in the catering trade. It offers good coverage and protection, as well as an extensive customisation area.
The bib apron, or long apron, is ideal for sommeliers, wine merchants or bartenders, for example. Even behind a counter, the top of the apron will be visible to customers. This way, the marking will be on display in all circumstances!
PR127
“Domain” Premier Denim Bib Apron
K899
Kariban mid-length polycotton apron
There are also mid-length or even short aprons. So waiters, greengrocers and even hairdressers can vary their style. What’s more, the apron can be combined with different tops to create an original outfit: a polo shirt for waiters in a casual brasserie or a black shirt for barbers in a premium salon.
In short, there are a multitude of apron options for creating unique uniforms!
Material and thickness
The comfort and resistance of the apron depend on the type of fibre and the thickness of the fabric. The most classic model is undoubtedly the 100% cotton apron. Soft, light and comfortable, they also come in an eco-friendly version, with organic or recycled cotton, like the K8013 model from Kariban, which is eco-responsible and unisex. Cotton is breathable, absorbent and hardwearing.
Perfect for professional and amateur cooks alike!
K8013
Unisex eco-friendly apron
K8010
Polycotton apron for high temperature washing
Polycotton is a blend of cotton and polyester fibres, producing a fabric that is crease and stain resistant. It will be slightly less comfortable than 100% cotton, but will withstand frequent washing at high temperatures. This is the case, for example, with Kariban’s K8010 model, which can withstand industrial washing at 85°.
The crease-resistant aspect of polycotton will appeal to waiters and sommeliers, who need to present a polished image and an “impeccable” look to their customers.
Finally, the aim will be to find the right compromise between a fine, pleasant fabric that doesn’t wear out with every wash, and a thick fabric that could be too stiff and uncomfortable.
The apron, THE perfect item to customise
When it comes to corporate communication and image, whatever the company, the unique and assertive side is essential to make a lasting impression. That’s why, at TopTex, we’re constantly expanding our catalogue to offer you an ever wider range of aprons. With an extensive range of looks, colours and thicknesses, etc., you’re sure to find something to express your creativity and come up with unique items for your customers.
When it comes to marking, there are several possibilities:
Screen or digital printing
For all craft trades, this technique will enable you to print a logo, for example, in very high quality that will stand up to washing.
Silk-screen printing is an excellent solution for creating aprons for the inauguration of a winery, for example.
Flocking
Less expensive and especially designed for monochrome visuals, the flocking may flake slightly if washed too often at high temperatures. On the other hand, in terms of budget, flocking is still the most attractive option for large quantities.
You can then flock advertising aprons for distribution at a culinary festival as part of a large-scale marketing operation. This technique is also recommended for personalised gifts for Father’s Day, birthdays or retirement.
Embroidery
The best quality and most hard-wearing marking technique. It has a sophisticated, elegant feel, especially when it comes to embroidered badges. Note that stains will be a little harder to remove from embroidered threads.
Embroidery is not recommended for very dirty environments, but is ideal for a prestigious beauty salon or delicatessen.
Over 50 different products to help you create unique aprons
In the “aprons” category, as with our other customisable textiles and accessories, we are committed to offering you the widest possible range of combinations to match your imagination.
So, all over Europe, the TopTex teams have been tracking down the best products: in our selections you’ll find mainly KARIBAN BRANDS, but also Premier and CG International products. Whatever the brand, we attach the utmost importance to the quality of our models. That’s why you’ll find in our online store more than 50 different rigorously selected aprons to personalise. Visit the Workwear – Hospitality section to find out more!
Baker, butcher, greengrocer, chef, waiter or even barman, the food and catering trades are undoubtedly those most often associated with aprons. And yet, this accessory is extremely popular with many other professionals such as hairdressers, barbers, beauticians, gardeners, artists, florists, mechanics and electricians, etc. To store work tools, protect professional or street clothes, and wear a unique, recognisable uniform that reflects the image of your company or brand, the customisable apron is the perfect solution!
That’s hardly surprising when you consider that there are a multitude of possibilities when it comes to materials, colours and styles … not to mention the wide scope for customisation that an apron offers, leaving plenty of room for creativity and originality!
