How to find your perfect size at Orleans Embroidery

We here at Orleans Embroidery want you to be 100% happy with your purchase, so we are trying to provide not only the highest quality possible, but also the most information possible, so that you can make an educated and regret-free decision before you buy.

What we have been realizing lately is that it is not always easy for our customers to choose the right size when ordering shirts. "Just order your size," you may think. "How hard can it be?"

Well, harder than it should be. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as standardized sizing, so it is pretty much up to each company how big or small their clothing runs. This means that a woman, on average wearing a Large, might need an Extra Large in some cases, but also fit into a Medium perfectly in others. That being said, a Large in women's sizes, which tend to be smaller than men's sizes. Oftentimes, especially work attire, such as polo shirts or regular T-shirts, is only available in unisex sizes; this, again, could mean that a unisex Small could be enough occasionally.

Confused yet?

We know. That is why we are currently working on a comprehensive chart of products we carry and their measurements, so that all you have to do is take one of your own shirts that fits you well, measure it and check our chart for a corresponding size. To make sure that you will be able to determine the size as reliably as possible, we provide 5 key measurements: the overall garment length, chest width, shoulder to shoulder width, the bottom seam width and the sleeve length.

In a sizing chart, they will appear like this, for example:

This way, you can order shirts that you know will fit you for sure, so you can step out into the world with confidence and know that you look exactly like you wanted to look in your custom embroidered shirt from Orleans Embroidery.

"White is not a mere absence of color...

"...it is a shining and affirmative thing, as fierce as red, as definite as black. God paints in many colours; but He never paints so gorgeously, I had almost said so gaudily, as when He paints in white." -- G. K. Chesterton

It has become apparent in the past few weeks at fashion shows around the globe that, even though Tangerine is officially the color of 2012, white is becoming a hot spring trend fast.

This is not a surprise. White is an incredibly versatile color. It can be combined with virtually any other color, it looks light, fresh and flattering on everyone, and  -  which is especially important in the working world  -  it gives a crisp, clean and adept impression in every profession or social setting.

White is the color of mental clarity and fresh beginnings; it signifies wisdom, peace and innocense. More shades of white are available commercially than any other color. It is a classic in clothing, interior design, landscaping and art.

It is also a perfect background for embroidery. Embroidery work on a white background is an immediate eye-catcher, which also make it the perfect choice to represent and advertise your company on clothing and other items.

There should always be room for a timeless classic like this white dress shirt for men in your wardrobe. The Poplin fabric, a tightly-woven and durable cotton blend, makes it comfortable to wear and wrinkle-resistant. A custom-made logo or design on the sleeve, chest or collar will give you a polished look anywhere, anytime.

If you are looking for something a tad less formal, maybe a little more approachable, but just as professional and put together, try a high quality polo shirt like this: It is made out of a material suitable for even the toughest jobs, and it is pocketless, so nothing will be in your way if you are working with machines, inventory, construction materials... or children, while still making you look professional, fashionable and well dressed.

Maybe straight up white feels a little too harsh for you, but do not worry, Orleans Embroidery has something for you, too! Try this ivory colored cardigan, for example. This softer shade of white is just as versatile and elegant, but a little scaled down. It is practically weightless, super-soft and has side pockets for your convenience. Add a custom embroidered design to make it your new go-to cover-up for work or play.

A great way to show your customers, guests, friends or family some appreciation is sending a small gift their way. Golf towels for the gents and cosmetic bags for the ladies are simple, yet useful gifts that everyone loves. Have them embroidered with your company logo for your customers, your family coat of arms for your grandparents, or your wedding date for your bridesmaids and groomsmen. Your color choice will prove that you keep up with current trends, and your gift will remind people that you truly care.

The Wearing of the Green

March is traditionally the month of everything green. Not only because it is St. Patrick's Day on the 17th, but also because it is the beginning of spring; nature is coming back to life, grass, flowers and other plants are starting to sprout, spear and spring.

It is not too late yet to stow away your dreary winter gear and pull something fresh (and of course, green!) out of your wardrobe. Not looking so good? Do not despair! Instead, log on to http://www.orleansembroidery.com/ and treat yourself to a wide range of custom embroidered dress shirts, polo shirts, outerwear, caps, aprons and more.

Own a business? Have your logo embroidered on a chic dress shirt. This Easy Care shirt's blend of cotton and polyester with only just a dash of spandex makes it ultra-comfortable to wear, virtually un-wrinkle-able and stain resistant. It comes in many sizes and many colors, but of course, also in green.

Or how about this fleece jacket, just because it does still get a little chilly in the mornings and evenings, even here in New Orleans, Louisiana. No chill  -  and no pill, thanks to its special anti-pill finish. You will look stylish and unfuzzy everywhere you go. Add your fishing association's logo for a fishing trip, your company's name for outdoor work, or just a little custom design only for yourself to finish your look.

If you own a restaurant, farmer's market stand or flower shop, supply your employees with this stylish apron. The functional length, adjustable neck strap and front pockets make it a perfect accessory for any of these businesses. And, you might have guessed it, it comes in green, too!

So celebrate March, celebrate green, and shop often at Orleans Embroidery!

Font Favorites at Orleans Embroidery

Sometimes all you need to give your work cardigan, church blouse or boy scout shirt that little extra personal touch, is some lettering. It doesn't always have to be a fancy logo in an abundance of colors that goes all the way from the collar to the end of your sleeve. Often, a simple name, statement or title will do, and Orleans Embroidery offers a range of standard fonts to choose from for this purpose. To get you started, we have compiled a selection of the most commonly used, most readable, most embroiderable customer favorites.

is probably the most common font in sports. It is perfect for names and/or numbers on sports gear because of its no-nonsense, all caps style, which makes it easy to read, regardless of its location and size.

has all the readability of its athletic brother Full Block, but can be used in any setting - offices, factories, restaurants, clubs, associations, and more. It is the minimalist among our favorites and looks professional no matter where you use it.

is not quite as minimalist as Block, but it is equally versatile and professional - if not more so. It is a little fancier, but takes a pass on twirls, squiggles and embellishments that could bias its authority. It is a classic that never goes out of style.

is quite similar to Gaudy Bold, but distinguishes itself by its chunky, sturdy, solid appearance. It is a powerful, confident font. If you want to appear trustworthy, reliable and steadfast, this should be your go-to font.

undoubtedly has more visual interest than the above. It is often used in business to do with arts and crafts or upscale hospitality services. What makes it so popular is that it is a perfect blend of professionalism and elegance.

is a little artsier; a little edgier. It is not so very neat, not so very fancy either, but willful, headstrong, unconventional. And young, creative, energetic types like it for exactly these qualities.

is probably the most romantic and ornate font in our list. It gives the embroidery an elegant, almost gone-with-the-wind-y touch. Keep in mind, however, that all of the 'Script' fonts become harder to read the smaller they get. 

is a font most commonly used by schools, out-of-school activities, daycare centers, pediatricians and, well, kindergartens. It is important to choose something not too serious for children. This nonlinear font best represents this lighthearted and chipper attitude.

Of course we don't limit ourselves to these choices here at Orleans Embroidery. We are open to suggestions and willing to experiment with you until you find exactly what you want. Let us know what you are looking for, and we will help you create unique, fashionable and personalized embroidered apparel.

Spring-clean your work wardrobe with Orleans Embroidery!

It is March, and at least in some parts of the country, like in beautiful Louisiana, spring is coming. Temperatures are going up, and jackets, coats and sweaters are coming off.

Now is a great time to revisit your employees' work wardrobe! Winter traditionally is a time for dark colors and heavy clothing. But as soon as it starts to warm up, people are yearning for a fresh start with bright colors and light materials.

Especially here in New Orleans, the home of Orleans Embroidery, temperatures in March will most likely be somewhere in the 70s, or even 80s. Your employees will appreciate it if you consider their comfort at the workplace and offer them a range of spring-colored polo shirts, dress shirts or aprons, embroidered with you company logo.

How about this lightweight short-sleeved dress shirt for your female employees? The Easy Care poly-cotton material makes it ultra-comfortable to wear, it is available in sizes XS-4XL, and it comes in a variety of great spring colors like this light blue.

If you are going for a more casual look for your male employees, consider this Cool DRI polo shirt. Its unique material wicks moisture away from the body to keep you feeling fresh at all times. Like most items at Orleans Embroidery, it comes in a wide range of sizes to accommodate as many of our valued customers as possible, is available not only in this great color called "pure gold", but also in "spring green", "aquatic blue" and many other vivid hues.

And should it unexpectedly get a little chilly, keep this close to weighless, soft zip-front cardigan handy. Your employees will appreciate your thoughfulness if you offer them a stylish option to complete their work outfit, and the available colors will all make sure that your custom embroidered logo will stand out and shine.

Let spring and the vast selection of fashionable clothing and unbeatable prices inspire you  -  not only for your work needs, but also for your family, church, soccer team or book club. The individuality a personalized, embroidered focal point on your apparel can give you, will certainly make you stand out and attract attention everywhere.