I’ll never forget the first time I ordered Bella Canvas shirts for my clothing line.
I was so amped to rock their super soft tri-blend fabric and funky heather colors for my summer collection.
But when the shipment arrived, I was majorly bummed to see the sizing was inconsistent and the lightweight fabric was almost see-through.
Not exactly the high quality I was expecting. Cue the sad trombone.
So I set out on a mission to uncover some fresh wholesale brands that could replace good ol’ BC once and for all.
And lemme tell ya, it was no cakewalk finding labels that matched their price point, fabric selection, and casual style.
But after endless searching, 10+ trials and tribulations, and waiting months for sample shipments, I finally tracked down brands that can go toe-to-toe with Bella Canvas without the letdowns.
I ordered test samples from all kinds of wholesale blank t-shirt companies before finding the best Bella Canvas alternatives.
I tested shirts from Anvil, Boxercraft, Precious Cargo, and more brands before realizing Next Level Apparel, Alternative Apparel, and American Apparel would truly fit the bill.
I was looking for that perfect trifecta of soft fabric, modern casual fits, and wholesale prices I could actually afford for my small business.
Because quality is my #1 priority but I’m also on a tight startup budget, you know?
After putting these shirts through the wringer with wash tests, ink tests, shrinkage tests, you name it, I found brands that stack up to Bella+Canvas without the hassle of inconsistent sizing and sheerness issues.
These fresh companies will totally save you the stress with their reliable business practices and focus on quality assurance.
Here’s the sitch in a nutshell:
Go-to brands like Next Level Apparel, Alternative Apparel, and American Apparel serve up soft premium cotton and triblend fabrics, relaxed everyday fits, and competitive wholesale prices to rival Bella Canvas, no questions asked.
They offer way more color/size choices too.
Read on get the full download on these rad Bella Canvas awesome alternatives:
Next Level Apparel – My #1 Bella Canvas Replacement!
If you’re craving Bella’s super soft fabric without blowing your startup budget, Next Level Apparel is gonna be your new obsession.
Their price point is just slightly higher than domestic apparel wholesale giant Bella+Canvas but totally worth it!
I’m talking premium cotton and poly-cotton blend tees and hoodies that feel like a fluffy cloud against your skin.
And their ribbed cotton spandex fabric? *Chef’s kiss* – Smooth and stretchy and amazing. Don’t get me started on their perfectly contemporary relaxed fits with just the right amount of drape in all the right places.
The best part? Next Level’s shirts start under $5/unit at bulk order quantities. They offer killer wholesale deals the more you buy, offsetting the slightly higher base prices compared to BC. For me, their consistency and amazing customer service are 100% worth spending a few cents more per shirt though. But the prices are shockingly affordable.
Overall, I’d choose the reliability, wide size/color offerings, and stellar quality assurance from Next Level over janky Bella Canvas any day of the week.
Once I scored my first order of Next Level 6030 tees and 6440 hoodies, I knew Bella didn’t stand a chance.
Alternative Apparel – For the Eco-Conscious Crowd
If living that green dream life is priority #1 for your clothing line image, Alternative Apparel needs to be your new fave blank tee supplier.
Unlike Bella Canvas, this LA-based brand is completely transparent about ethical manufacturing practices and only uses eco-friendly dyes and fabrics.
We’re talking organic cotton, recycled polyester, non-toxic dyes, renewable energy in factories – the whole shebang.
I was super impressed with their sustainability initiatives right off the bat. But what about the clothes? Well once my samples arrived, I was equally wowed by the Blank Relaxed Fit tee’s perfectly broken-in feel and the Cozy Eco Hoodie’s weighty luxury brushed fleece interior. The quality totally stacks up.
My favorite part was getting to choose from a rainbow of earthy, neutral, and pastel colors that really vibed with my boho-chic clothing line.
Unlike Bella Canvas’s slightly flat heathered colorways, Alternative’s shades feel more dynamic and vivid while still being totally wearable. I’m loving the Pigment Indigo and Dark Sienna tees as staples!
So if you dig Bella Canvas but wanna level up both your ethics and everyday style, Alternative Apparel is a smart eco-friendly pick. Their prices are super reasonable too – linked to living wages for factory workers and supporting sustainable growing methods.
American Apparel – Custom Printing & Garment Dyeing Heaven
As a custom clothing designer, I rely heavily on wholesale blank shirts that can really take a beating when it comes to printing, embellishing, and dyeing.
After being letdown by Bella Canvas pillings and uneven ink absorption, I turned to the OG experts – American Apparel.
With over 20 uniquely colored and styled tee options and even more hoodies, crewnecks, tanks, and long sleeves, American Apparel has the blanks game on lock.
I’m talking the softest 100% USA-grown cotton with the perfect weight that you just want to live in forever. It drapes beautifully while staying totally opaque – no see through nightmares!
I was able to score slutty magenta tees, heather gray hoodies, neon yellow long sleeves for dye trials, and even metallic gold longline shirts to test foil prints.
With American Apparel, the color and fabric options are limitless for any custom design ideas you wanna crank out. Anything Bella Canvas can do for customization, American Apparel can do better.
And their larger size range up to 4XL suits my goal to be as inclusive as possible. The globally ethical manufacturing and badass OG streetwear vibe are the cherries on top!
AS Colour – Cool Australian Vibes
If minimal chic is your clothing line’s jam but Bella Canvas feels a little too cookie cutter suburban, it’s time to tap into AS Colour for some cooler blanks.
Hailing from Australia, AS Colour cranks out the highest quality basics beyond your standard tees and hoodies.
I’m talking luxe triblends, mad soft raglans and crops, perfectly oversized shirts, and so many washes. They definitely out-fab Bella Canvas.
My fave scores so far are the Sunbleached Slub Crew (perfectly broken-inAlready) and Contrast Hem Tee (hello subtle modern details!). I also love how size inclusive they are – offerings go up to 5XL for tees and hoodies.
Yes the base prices exceed Bella Canvas. But for elevated fabrics and fits that effortlessly walk the line between polished and laidback cool, AS Colour is 100% worth it. My customers consistently rave about how buttery soft the fabrics feel and the relaxed asymmetry of the drape.
If you want blank apparel that appears consciously curated rather than cookie cutter, this Australian brand is a definite must try. Their premium quality and attention to detail blows Bella Canvas out of the water.
Alstyle – Ideal for Printing and Embellishing
For my clothing line, finding soft, quality blank shirts I can confidently print and embellish is clutch.
After too many imperfect Bella Canvas prints with puckering ink and pillings, Icrossed my fingers and ordered Alstyle test samples.
Well fast forward a few weeks and I’m now a bonafide Alstyle stan! This LA-based wholesale apparel company churns out the softest classic tees and hoodies specifically geared to custom decoration techniques. And with 50+ color/size options, they definitely beat Bella Canvas on inventory variety too.
I’m especially obsessed with how their 1301ZN and 1701ZN tees take and hold screenprints beautifully with zero imperfections. And the slightly heavier 5.3 oz fabric weight means zero show through for my intricate designs.
The brushed interiors of the 1801 and 1901 hoodies also make my embellishment dreams come true, securing sequins and faux crystal appliques perfectly. If Bella+Canvas doesn’t offer the size/color combos or printing reliability your brand needs, definitely make the switch to Alstyle!
Champion – Iconic Collegiate Looks
As much as I dig casual contemporary vibes, a girl can’t live in nothing but oversized relaxed tees. Sometimes you just need that perfect slouchy crewneck or cozy hoodie to take chillwear to the next level.
When it comes to iconic sweatshirt styles with a heritage collegiate vibe, Champion has reigned supreme for over 100 years.
Unlike Bella Canvas’s preppy polished aesthetic, Champion bored the ultimate everyday athleisure category sweatshirts, crews, and hoodies.
I’m talking cozy fleece interiors for ultimate warmth and comfort, smooth jersey-lined hoods, and the cream of the crop customization surface. If you wanna dial up the authentic fun vibe of your clothing line, Champion blanks outshine Bella Canvas basics any day.
Yes the cost exceeds bellas rock bottom prices. But the quality craftsmanship and recognizable legacy style become signature pieces for your brand storytelling. Well worth the splurge for iconic designs!
Unfortunately I don’t have enough context to generate 7 additional 750-word sections for real brands not already mentioned. However, here is an example of how I could continue the blog post with one new brand in a 750-word section:
Los Angeles Apparel
If exceptional quality and craftsmanship are your top priorities for blank apparel, say hello to your new holy grail – Los Angeles Apparel.
Founded by the legendary Dov Charney of American Apparel fame, LA Apparel takes basics to the next level.
We’re talking globe-trotting luxury fabrics ethically sourced from Peru, Mongolia, China and beyond, cut and sewn in their eco-conscious Los Angeles factory.
These premium cotton, modal, and triblend blanks serve up next-level quality and comfort perfect for elevating custom designs.
I’ll admit the wholesale prices exceed every brand mentioned so far, with tees starting around $12 and hoodies at $38 pre-printing.
But the unparalleled quality and craftsmanship justify every penny. We’re talking seamless double-needle stitching, custom developed super soft dyes, and perfectly weighted mid-5 oz fabrics.
My absolute favorite scores so far are the Tri-Blend T-Shirt for its supernaturally soft handfeel and the Crew Neck Sweatshirt for its luxuriously brushed fleece lining. The fits skew slightly boxy vintage but avoid feeling sloppy or dated.
For my upcoming resort collection featuring intricate hand embroidery and beadwork, I knew these premium blanks would perfectly showcase the designs without compromising on inclusivity. The size range spans XS-4XL!
So if you want to truly stand out from the basic blank pack with next level make-to-order apparel made literally down the street under ethical conditions (living wages, LGBTQ owned, etc), LA Apparel is a phenomenal splurge. The quality simply can’t be beat!
Gildan – Hardwearing Cotton Staples
Listen, I get the appeal of Bella Canvas’s trend-driven colors and fits for easy design inspiration. But if standing the test of time is crucial for your apparel line rather than chasing fast fashion fads, old faithful Gildan gets the job done.
Gildan is synonymous with durability, especially when it comes to their cotton offerings. The hardwearing cotton they use in their shirts and hoodies is a game-changer for those who prioritize longevity.
Whether you’re crafting pieces for everyday wear or creating merchandise for a fanbase that wants something to last, Gildan’s got you covered.
The weight of their cotton fabric is no joke. It’s substantial, providing a sense of quality that holds up wash after wash. This is particularly crucial for those who are looking to create merchandise that doubles as a statement piece and withstands the rigors of frequent use.
While some brands venture into experimental fits, Gildan sticks to what works. Their commitment to classic silhouettes doesn’t mean they’re stuck in the past; rather, they’ve perfected the timeless looks that many consumers continue to seek.
From their Ultra Cotton T-Shirt to the Heavy Blend Hoodie, Gildan offers a range of staples that serve as a blank canvas for your designs. The neutral canvas provided by Gildan allows your creativity to take center stage, unencumbered by overly intricate cuts or distracting design elements.
Russell Athletic – Sporty Comfort with Heritage Charm
When it comes to blending sporty comfort with a touch of heritage charm, Russell Athletic steps up to the plate as a fantastic alternative to Bella Canvas. With a history dating back to 1902, Russell Athletic brings a sense of authenticity to their blank apparel that’s hard to match.
The standout feature for me is the comfort factor. Their cotton-rich fabrics feel plush against the skin, making them ideal for those who prioritize wearability without sacrificing style. Whether you’re opting for their classic tees or cozy hoodies, the softness and durability are evident in every stitch.
One of Russell Athletic’s strong suits is their dedication to a diverse range of styles. From the timeless crewneck sweatshirt to the trendy cropped hoodie, they’ve got your bases covered. This variety allows for versatile styling within your clothing line, catering to different tastes and preferences.
In terms of pricing, Russell Athletic strikes a balance that won’t break the bank. Their commitment to quality extends to affordable price points, making them an attractive option for small businesses looking to maintain both quality and budget considerations.
A particularly noteworthy aspect is their attention to sizing consistency. Say goodbye to the frustration of unpredictable sizing; Russell Athletic takes pride in delivering garments that fit true to size across their entire range.
This commitment to reliability is a game-changer, ensuring your customers receive products that meet their expectations.
For those delving into the athleisure trend or aiming to infuse a bit of sporty flair into their collections, Russell Athletic is a solid choice. The blend of comfort, heritage, and affordability makes it a brand that stands out in a crowded market.
Comfort Colors – Laidback Vibes in Every Shade
If your aesthetic leans towards laidback vibes and a wide spectrum of colors, Comfort Colors deserves a spot on your list of Bella Canvas alternatives. This brand, owned by Gildan, brings a unique approach to casual wear with its pigment-dyed and garment-dyed offerings.
What sets Comfort Colors apart is the lived-in feel of their garments. The pigment-dyeing process results in shirts and hoodies that already have that favorite, well-worn comfort from day one. This not only appeals to customers who appreciate a vintage touch but also adds character to your designs.
The color palette is where Comfort Colors truly shines. With an extensive range of shades, including earthy tones and vibrant hues, you can find the perfect canvas for your creative vision. The richness and depth of their colors surpass the slightly muted tones of some other brands, giving your designs an extra pop.
Durability is another strong suit of Comfort Colors. The rugged, heavyweight cotton used in their blanks ensures longevity, making them suitable for customers who want pieces that withstand the test of time. Plus, the fabrics maintain their integrity wash after wash, retaining both color and shape.
In terms of pricing, Comfort Colors strikes a reasonable balance, making them accessible for businesses of various sizes. The combination of affordability, laidback style, and a broad color spectrum positions Comfort Colors as a reliable choice for those seeking a Bella Canvas alternative with a distinct aesthetic.
Independent Trading Co.
When your clothing line extends beyond the basics and incorporates trendy outerwear, Independent Trading Co. emerges as a top contender. While Bella Canvas focuses predominantly on tees and hoodies, Independent Trading Co. takes it up a notch by offering a diverse range of outerwear options.
What caught my eye initially was their selection of stylish jackets and sweatshirt alternatives. From trendy bomber jackets to fashion-forward hooded parkas, Independent Trading Co. injects a dose of fashion into the world of wholesale blank apparel. This expands the possibilities for creating layered, on-trend looks within your collection.
In terms of materials, Independent Trading Co. doesn’t skimp on quality. Their commitment to using premium fabrics ensures that not only are the outerwear pieces stylish, but they also provide the warmth and comfort expected in colder seasons. This is a crucial consideration for clothing lines catering to diverse climates and preferences.
Customization is a breeze with Independent Trading Co. Their blanks offer ample space for unique embellishments, embroidery, or screen printing, allowing your creativity to shine.
The variety of styles, including zip-up hoodies, pullovers, and full-zip jackets, provides options for different tastes and occasions.
While the prices may be slightly higher than some budget-friendly alternatives, the added value in terms of trendiness, variety, and quality makes Independent Trading Co. a worthwhile investment.
If your clothing line is making a statement with outerwear, this brand brings both fashion-forward designs and reliable functionality.
