Trims 101: Ropes, Drawcords, Eyelets and How to Use Them Well

Trims 101: Ropes, Drawcords, Eyelets and How to Use Them Well

1. What Are Trims?

Trims are non-fabric components added to a garment to serve functional, aesthetic, or branding purposes.

They include:

  • Drawcords & ropes

  • Eyelets & grommets

  • Elastic bands

  • Toggle stoppers

  • Cord ends (aglets)

  • Metal or rubber branding accessories

At HEM APPAREL, trims are chosen to complement both the garment’s use and the brand’s identity.


2. Common Trim Types and Their Uses

Trim Type Description Best For
Drawcords Woven or braided cords for adjustment Hoodies, joggers, shorts
Eyelets/Grommets Metal or plastic rings for ventilation or cord entry Hoodies, outdoorwear
Elastic bands Adds stretch to waist, hem, cuffs Activewear, joggers, shorts
Cord stoppers Plastic toggles to adjust cord tension Jackets, hooded outerwear
Aglets (cord ends) Plastic, rubber, or metal tips Branding or function for drawcords

3. Choosing Trims Based on Brand Style

Brand Style Recommended Trims
Streetwear Thick rope drawcords + metal aglets
Activewear Flat drawcords + elastic hems
Luxury minimal Tonal eyelets, matte rubber details
Workwear/Utility Reinforced grommets + cord stoppers
Kidswear Soft elastic + hidden closures

4. Branding Through Trims

Trims can carry branding:

  • Embossed rubber aglets

  • Laser-engraved metal cord ends

  • Custom toggles or stoppers

  • Branded woven drawcords

Many high-end hoodies use heavy, oversized cords with branded tips to convey premium feel.


5. What to Communicate to Your Manufacturer

✅ Cord length, width, color (with Pantone code)
✅ Type of eyelet: metal/plastic, matte/gloss
✅ Positioning: waistband, neckline, side hem…
✅ Branding: logo on stopper, aglet, or cord itself
✅ Safety considerations for kidswear (e.g. avoid choking hazards)

HEM APPAREL can source custom trims in Vietnam or work with your supplied designs.


🔚 Conclusion

Trims may be small, but they speak volumes. The right drawcord or eyelet can turn a basic piece into something memorable — both in function and brand feel. Choose your trims like you choose your fabrics: intentionally.

HEM APPAREL – Your trusted manufacturing partner for high-quality custom apparel, made in Vietnam

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