Definition B

Blanks

Unbranded base garments that brands purchase and customize with their own graphics or labels.

Blanks are unbranded wholesale garments that brands purchase and then customize with graphics, embroidery, or labels. Understanding blanks helps distinguish between brands that design original garments and those that decorate existing products. Common blank suppliers include Gildan (budget), Alstyle (mid-tier), Los Angeles Apparel (premium), and Camber (heavyweight). Quality varies significantly—a $50 t-shirt printed on a $3 Gildan blank represents very different value than one using a $15 premium blank with superior fabric and construction. Some brands are transparent about blank usage while others obscure it. Neither approach is inherently wrong: printing on blanks allows brands to focus on graphic design and concepts, while cut-and-sew production enables unique silhouettes and construction. Savvy consumers learn to identify common blanks by fit, fabric weight, and tag placement, informing their purchasing decisions.

Origin & Etymology

Standard industry term for undecorated wholesale garments sold 'blank' for customization. The term gained consumer relevance as streetwear communities developed literacy around production methods.

Related Locations

Related Terms