The Clothing Wholesale Market in Everett
Everett has a vibrant community of boutiques, outdoor retailers, screen printers, embroidery shops, and businesses that purchase apparel in bulk. Whether a local brewery needs branded shirts, a school needs team uniforms, or a boutique is stocking its shelves for the season, wholesale clothing suppliers make it possible. The Pacific Northwest is fortunate to host some of the largest apparel wholesalers in the country, giving Everett buyers excellent access to inventory and fast shipping.
Here are ten of the best clothing wholesalers serving Everett and Snohomish County.
1. SanMar
SanMar, headquartered in Issaquah, is one of the largest suppliers of blank apparel for the promotional products industry. It distributes brands such as Port Authority, Sport-Tek, and District, as well as national labels. Everett screen printers and embroiderers benefit from SanMar's regional distribution, which often allows next-day delivery.
2. S&S Activewear
S&S Activewear is a major distributor of blank T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, and activewear. Its online ordering platform and extensive brand selection make it a favorite among decorators who need quick access to popular styles and colors.
3. alphabroder
alphabroder offers a wide range of promotional apparel, accessories, and bags. Its catalog includes performance wear, outerwear, and corporate apparel, giving businesses many options for branded uniforms and event merchandise.
4. Columbia Sportswear
Columbia Sportswear, headquartered in Portland, is an iconic Northwest outdoor brand. Through its wholesale and corporate programs, retailers and businesses can stock jackets, fleece, and outdoor apparel designed for rainy, cool conditions familiar to Everett residents.
5. Eddie Bauer
Eddie Bauer was founded in Seattle and remains closely associated with Northwest outdoor heritage. Its corporate sales and wholesale offerings provide durable outerwear and apparel suited for branded gifts, employee uniforms, and retail.
6. Filson
Filson's premium outdoor clothing and bags are sold through select retailers. Everett boutiques and outdoor shops that carry Filson benefit from the brand's reputation for quality and its strong appeal among customers who value heritage craftsmanship.
7. Carhartt
Carhartt is a leading workwear brand with wholesale accounts for retailers, uniform providers, and businesses. Its rugged jackets, bibs, and pants are popular among Everett's construction, marine, and manufacturing workers.
8. Costco Business Center
The Costco Business Center in nearby Lynnwood offers bulk purchasing for small businesses, including basic apparel and workwear. While not a traditional apparel wholesaler, it provides convenient access for businesses that need affordable basics quickly.
9. Cintas
Cintas provides uniform rental and purchase programs for businesses throughout Everett. Employers in healthcare, food service, manufacturing, and hospitality use Cintas for branded uniforms, safety apparel, and laundering services.
10. Regional Fashion Wholesale Showrooms
Boutique owners in Everett often source contemporary fashion through regional showrooms and trade events in Seattle and Portland, as well as online wholesale marketplaces. These channels connect retailers with independent designers and emerging brands, helping local shops offer unique selections.
Trends in Clothing Wholesale
Sustainability is a major consideration for apparel buyers. Many wholesalers now offer organic cotton, recycled polyester, and ethically produced garments. Everett customers, who often value environmental responsibility, increasingly ask businesses about the origins of their apparel.
Performance fabrics are also in demand. Moisture-wicking shirts, softshell jackets, and lightweight layers suit both active lifestyles and corporate dress codes. Online ordering platforms with real-time inventory have become essential, allowing decorators to plan production precisely.
Tips for Buying Wholesale Clothing
Start by defining your needs, including garment styles, sizes, colors, and decoration methods. Compare pricing tiers, minimum order requirements, and shipping costs. Ask for samples to evaluate fabric quality and fit before placing large orders. For retail, consider seasonality, since outerwear demand peaks in fall and winter while lightweight apparel sells better in spring and summer.
Building relationships with sales representatives can provide access to new product information, closeout deals, and support when inventory is tight.
Supporting Local Businesses
Many Everett screen printers and embroidery shops source garments from these wholesalers and add local designs, logos, and artwork. Supporting these businesses keeps money in the community and helps promote local events, sports teams, and organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a business license to buy wholesale clothing?
Most apparel wholesalers require a business license or resale certificate to open an account. Washington businesses typically use their state business license and reseller permit to purchase items for resale without paying sales tax at the time of purchase.
What is the best blank T-shirt for screen printing?
It depends on the desired feel, price point, and decoration method. Ring-spun cotton and cotton-poly blends are popular for soft hand prints, while heavier cotton tees suit workwear and vintage-style designs. Ordering samples is the best way to decide.
How far ahead should I order event apparel?
Plan at least three to four weeks ahead to allow for design approval, decoration, and shipping, especially during busy seasons such as back-to-school and the holidays.
Conclusion
Everett businesses have outstanding access to clothing wholesalers, thanks in part to the Pacific Northwest's strong apparel industry. From SanMar's massive inventory to heritage outdoor brands and uniform providers, buyers can find the right products for any purpose. By focusing on quality, sustainability, and reliable partnerships, businesses can build apparel programs that impress customers and employees alike.