How to Brand T-Shirts, Jackets & More on a Budget

by Deelanie Branding

If you want your brand, team, or side hustle to be taken seriously – how you show up matters. People notice what you wear. But custom branded apparel in South Africa can get expensive quickly… unless you know what to look for.

Whether you’re ordering:

3 shirts for content creation
10 jackets for your staff team
Or 1 hoodie for your personal brand

This guide will show you how to brand clothing that’s affordable, useful, and still makes your business look professional – even in small quantities.

How to Look Branded Without Breaking the Bank

Here’s a breakdown of the most ordered branded clothing items – plus practical advice on how to brand them affordably in South Africa, even if you’re a team of one.

1. T-Shirts - The Entry Point for Most Brands

T-shirts are where most businesses start their branding journey.

They’re low-risk, easy to style, and work across every industry – from delivery teams and casual uniforms to streetwear and campus merch.

🔧 Branding Options:

Vinyl Heat Press – Bold one-colour logos (±R99-R130/shirt)
DTF Print – Full-colour, photorealistic prints (±R110-R140)
Screen Print – Best for 10+ units (±R25-R45 per print)

🧠 Start with neutral colours like black, white, or grey – they’re cheaper to stock, and your logo will pop.

✅ Great for: Flea market stalls, casual brand shoots, NGO activations

2. Jackets & Bodywarmers - Stay Branded in Winter

You don’t need premium puffers to keep your team looking sharp. Opt for lightweight to midweight jackets with branding zones over the chest or shoulder.

🔧 Branding Options:

Vinyl or HTV (Heat Transfer Vinyl) – Cost-effective for short runs
Embroidery – Slightly pricier, but adds a premium, stitched finish

💰 Budget Range: R160-R280 per jacket
🧠 Ask for softshell, polar fleece, or windbreakers – they balance comfort, structure, and visibility.

✅ Best for: Sales reps, delivery teams, winter activations, site supervisors

3. Hoodies - The Creator & Campaign Favourite

Hoodies are warm, versatile, and trendy. Whether you’re branding them for internal gifting, content shoots, or street-level giveaways – they’re always a hit.

🔧 Budget Branding Options: