40 years of trendy promo items: What’s changed—and what hasn’t

By Laurie Frees

A lot has changed since 4imprint began 40 years ago. Back in the 1980s, catalogs and toll-free numbers ruled the day, while websites, smartphones and social media were years away. Not only has technology evolved dramatically since then, but countless fashion and product trends have come and gone. Meanwhile, many essential items have endured and are as popular today as they ever were. In honor of 4mprint’s 40^th anniversary, let’s look back at four decades of trendy promo items to see what’s changed—and which products may never lose their power to promote.

The late ’80s and into the ’90s

In 4imprint’s early days, a 12-page catalog was mailed to 250,000 businesses. While a catalog is no match for today’s website and its selection of thousands of products and countless customization possibilities, it laid the foundation for what was to come. Its pages included many of the classic promotional products organizations have used for decades. Think hats, ceramic mugs, pens and keychains.

T-shirts are an essential for raising brand awareness, commemorating events and fostering community. In the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, bold colors, brand logos and novelty tees were everywhere. The rise of moisture-wicking fabrics for tees, polos, pullovers and more have revolutionized athletic wear over the decades since.

T-shirts are an essential for raising brand awareness, commemorating events and fostering community.

Those who remember the late ’80s and early ’90s likely recall scrunchies, windbreakers, bulky sneakers, pop-culture characters and baggy jeans ruling the day. And don’t forget fanny packs. Once out of style, their return in recent years highlights the cyclical nature of fashion. Paired with colored sunglasses, they’re as cool today as they were decades ago.

As we moved through the ’90s, personal computers changed how we worked, learned, shopped and spent our free time. New technologies also changed brand promotions. Branded mouse pads quickly became trendy promotional products. Screen cleaners helped keep computer monitors and workspaces tidy. Before long, webcam covers provided users a layer of privacy.

The 2000s

Advancements in technology continued at a remarkable pace. In the early 2000s opens in new window, laptop sales brought in more revenue than desktops. The rise of laptop use helped messenger bags become a go-to for students and professionals. USB flash drives became a clever and functional giveaway. And as CD players gave way to smaller, more mobile MP3 players, headphones—and later ear buds—became in-demand.

Few promo products evoke the 2000s like silicone bracelets. Driven by Lance Armstrong’s Livestrong^® movement, cause-driven brands especially embraced the trend. Many continue to do so today.

As the public grew more interested in sustainability, tote bags—including those made of canvas, polyester or polypropylene—arrived in a big way. These hand-held billboards have since moved from a trendy promotional item to a household staple for many. That’s a plus for marketers. One promotional bag averages nearly 2,000 impressions opens in new window over its lifetime. Reusable water bottles also became popular as consumers looked to stay hydrated while limiting waste.

One promotional bag averages nearly 2,000 impressions over its lifetime.

The 2010s

Hello, social media! While platforms like Facebook^®, Instagram^® and Twitter^® had been growing for years, the 2010s saw these and other social networks touch nearly every aspect of daily life. PopSockets^® became a helpful tool for gripping a smart phone—and for brand promotion.

Adults and children alike found a fondness for fidget spinners. In turn, marketers began using them as giveaways, prizes and rewards. While these comfort toys don’t have the buzz they once did—at one point in 2017 they accounted for 17% of all online toy sales opens in new window—they’re still found at schools, in desk drawers, on playgrounds and beyond.

Advances in music streaming and Bluetooth^® technology brought wireless speakers into our lives. As the tech keeps improving, the creativity of these promo products only grows. For example, some coolers and lamps now include built-in Bluetooth speakers.

The 2020s

As the decade began with a shift toward remote and hybrid work, employers found new ways to show support and appreciation—offering tech kits, phone stands and personal care items tailored to at-home set-ups.

Today, trends are evolving as quick as ever. Bucket hats, dad caps and cropped tees are among many examples of trendy promotional apparel items still in demand, blending retro style with promotional power. Heavy-duty drinkware—including mugs and bottles from Stanley^® and Hydro Flask^®—continues to be ubiquitous. If you’re looking for team gifts for the holidays, these trendy promo items can still thrill—and draw extra attention to your logo.

No matter the trends of the day, stickers and decals of all kinds have persevered as a go-to promoter across 40 years. They’re especially popular today for decorating water bottles and laptops. Over time, shapes and slogans have changed, but the core idea holds strong. The same can be said for hoodies, beanies and button-ups. There’s trendy promotional apparel and there’s timeless promotional apparel. Each has its own magic.

Want more? Read about the trendy promos turning heads in 2025.

40 years of trendy promotional products

As 4imprint moves into its fifth decade, new fashions and fads are surely on the horizon. Whether your organization chooses to harness trendy promo items or more timeless ones, we remain dedicated to helping you promote your brand, show key audiences they matter and maintain lasting connections.

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