Why Choose a Hip Print?
Subtle Branding
Hip prints are ideal when a business wants understated logo placement. This is common in retail apparel, lifestyle brands, fitness clothing, and premium merchandise.
Instead of placing a large logo across the chest, a smaller mark at the hip allows the garment to feel more like everyday wear than promotional clothing.
Modern Aesthetic
Fashion trends in Australia increasingly favour minimal and strategic logo placements. A hip print aligns with this design approach, especially when combined with oversized fits, drop shoulders, or streetwear styling.
Supporting Secondary Branding
Hip prints can be used as a secondary design element. For example, a larger back print might carry the main message, while a small hip logo reinforces brand identity.
Suitable Printing Methods
Several professional printing techniques can be used for hip placement, depending on the garment and design.
Screen Printing
Screen printing works well for bold, single-colour hip logos. It provides durability and cost efficiency for larger production runs.
Direct-to-Garment (DTG)
DTG is suitable for detailed or multi-colour artwork, particularly on cotton garments. It produces a softer finish and works well for small runs.
Direct-to-Film (DTF)
DTF transfers offer flexibility across cotton and polyester blends and provide strong adhesion with good wash resistance.
Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)
HTV is commonly used for small, simple logos or personalised details. It is effective for sportswear and custom orders.
Key Considerations for Hip Print Placement
Accurate Positioning
Consistency is critical. Hip prints must be aligned evenly across all garments in a run. Slight variations can be noticeable due to the unconventional placement.
Professional production teams measure and standardise placement to ensure uniform results.
Garment Fit and Style
Hip placement varies depending on garment cut. Fitted T-shirts, oversized streetwear, and cropped hoodies all require adjusted positioning to maintain visual balance.
Print Size
Hip prints are generally smaller in scale. Oversized designs may distort around the body or lose their subtle appeal.
Fabric Behaviour
Stretch fabrics, activewear materials, and lightweight garments require careful application to avoid distortion during wear.
Benefits for Australian Businesses
Hip prints offer branding versatility. They allow companies to:
- Create fashion-oriented merchandise
- Differentiate from traditional promotional apparel
- Add design detail without increasing print coverage costs significantly
- Offer limited edition or premium apparel options
In sectors such as fitness, music merchandise, creative agencies, and youth-focused brands, hip placement aligns well with current style preferences.
For corporate clients, it can provide a more refined alternative to large logo placements, particularly on lifestyle apparel.
Practical Applications
Hip prints are commonly used on:
- Retail T-shirts and oversized tees
- Branded hoodies and crewnecks
- Gym and activewear garments
- Event merchandise
- Streetwear collections
They are especially effective when paired with minimalist design strategies or tonal colour palettes.
Hip Print in Professional Garment Printing
While centre chest and back prints remain popular, alternative placements such as hip prints allow brands to create more distinctive apparel.
When executed with precise alignment, appropriate sizing, and the right printing method, a hip print enhances garment design without overwhelming it. For Australian businesses aiming to combine branding with contemporary style, hip placement provides a subtle yet impactful solution within modern custom garment printing.
