Showing posts with label trade fair. Show all posts
Showing posts with label trade fair. Show all posts

Thursday, 10 September 2026

Trade Fair Report: Première Vision Paris Strengthens Its Role as a Strategic Meeting Point for the Fashion Industry

The latest edition of Première Vision Paris, held from 1–3 September at Paris Nord Villepinte,  is reinforcing its position as more than a sourcing marketplace, placing greater emphasis on creativity, industry intelligence, networking and business decision-making alongside the traditional sourcing of textiles and fashion materials.

The trade faire for international textile industries confirmed a repositioning that organisers say has been underway for the past two seasons. The emphasis is increasingly on bringing together the people who influence product development and commercial decisions, with the ultimate objective of generating business opportunities for exhibitors.

A more influential visitor profile

One of the most significant developments was the changing composition of the visitor base. Fashion houses, designers and luxury companies increased by 19% compared with September 2025, while retail businesses were up 30%, reported the organisers at GL Events.

There was also a notable increase in the presence of trend agencies, design studios and agents – the industry ‘prescribers’ whose recommendations can influence the development of numerous collections. Each of these categories gained more than 10 percentage points, while commercial functions also recorded growth.

For Première Vision, the shift is strategically important. Increasing the proportion of designers and other decision-makers within the audience potentially gives the event greater influence over the collections and products being developed for future seasons. It also suggests that the value of a sourcing fair is increasingly being measured not simply by the volume of exhibitors or materials on display, but by the quality and influence of the connections it creates.

International sourcing remains central

The stronger emphasis on decision-makers has been accompanied by a solid international visitor base. Six out of ten visitors came from outside France, with established European manufacturing centres in Italy, Germany and Switzerland showing growth alongside Turkey and India.

This international dimension remains particularly significant at a time when fashion and textile companies are reassessing sourcing strategies in response to geopolitical uncertainty, supply-chain pressures, sustainability requirements and the need for greater flexibility.

Première Vision is also seeking to position itself as a forum for wider industry debate. For the second consecutive year, European textile federations met at the event under the auspices of Euratex. The meeting brought together Valère Moutarlier, Deputy Director-General for European Industry and Decarbonisation at the European Commission, along with French parliamentarians. Sébastien Martin, Minister responsible for Industry, also contributed by video message.

According to the organisers, a declaration signed at the show a year earlier has since contributed to the first regulatory developments, including European taxation of small parcels. This underlines the increasingly political and regulatory dimension of textile-industry events, where discussions about sourcing and manufacturing are closely connected to the rules governing the future of the sector.

Content becomes part of the sourcing proposition

Another notable development is the growing importance of Première Vision's programme of talks, pitches and guided tours. These activities attracted the equivalent of one-third of the visitor base, indicating that visitors are using the event not only to discover materials and suppliers but also to interpret market developments before making sourcing and product decisions.

This is an important evolution for international trade shows. As digital platforms make it easier to discover suppliers and products remotely, physical events increasingly need to offer knowledge, interpretation and opportunities for direct dialogue that cannot be replicated through a conventional online marketplace.

The organisers also reported interest in the beauty sector, suggesting that the appetite for trend intelligence, innovation and cross-industry connections is extending beyond traditional textiles and fashion.


Positioning the show across the wider value chain

Première Vision's claim to a distinctive international position is also reflected in the attendance of 459 strategically important brands, each represented by more than three members of staff on average. The organisers interpret this as evidence of more structured, team-based visits, rather than purely exploratory sourcing trips.

The broader strategy is to bring together the different stages of the fashion and textile value chain – from materials and manufacturing through to designers, brands, retailers and industry organisations – while combining sourcing with trend intelligence, education and institutional debate.

Florence Rousson, Managing Director of the Fashion Division at GL events, said that the increased attendance of creative houses, prescribers and retailers, together with the participation of one-third of visitors in the show's programme, demonstrated that Première Vision had become a place where the industry “meets, gets informed and makes decisions”.

The direction of travel is significant. The traditional trade-fair model centred on product discovery and sourcing is evolving into a more integrated platform in which creativity, commercial intelligence, sustainability, regulation and networking are increasingly interconnected.

For textile and fashion professionals navigating a more fragmented and complex global sourcing landscape, the ability to interpret market change and establish strategic relationships may ultimately prove as valuable as finding the right fabric, yarn, leather or accessory.

The next edition of Première Vision Paris will take place from 26–28 January 2027 at Paris Nord Villepinte, with the programme focusing on territories and expertise, and India named as the guest country.

Première Vision Paris trade fair photos by Lucia Carpio

Tuesday, 25 August 2026

Textiles Trade Fair: Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris 2026: Global sourcing landscape shifts towards quality, diversification and proximity

The changing dynamics of global textile and apparel sourcing will be under the spotlight when the 59th edition of Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris takes place from 31 August to 2 September 2026 at Paris-Le Bourget Exhibition Centre, with more than 1,000 international exhibitors participating, reflecting a sourcing landscape increasingly shaped by supply-chain consolidation, diversification and the growing demand for closer production partners.


Organised around three complementary sectors — Texworld Paris, covering fabrics and textile raw materials; Apparel Sourcing Paris, focusing on finished garments and fashion accessories; and Avantex, dedicated to technology, innovation and solutions for a more sustainable and higher-performing fashion industry — the event is positioning itself as a comprehensive sourcing platform at a time of considerable change across the global textile industry.

Buyers seek a more focused offer

One of the clearest messages from the organisers is that the sourcing market is moving away from the pursuit of sheer volume. According to Julien Schmoll, Marketing and Communications Director at Messe Frankfurt France, buyers are increasingly seeking carefully selected and dependable suppliers capable of delivering quality, flexibility and competitive pricing.

The response at this edition is a more focused and navigable exhibition, with Halls 3 and 4 organised around womenswear, casualwear and sportswear. The aim is to make suppliers' areas of expertise more immediately identifiable while encouraging greater interaction between manufacturers, brands and sourcing professionals.

For textile buyers, Texworld will feature more than 500 textile manufacturers and weaving companies from around ten countries. Major textile-producing nations will be represented through national pavilions and collective delegations, including China, Türkiye, Korea and India. India's high-end embroidery specialists, in particular, are highlighted as evidence of the country's continuing momentum in premium textile production.

European expertise gains visibility

The show is also placing emphasis on technical expertise, craftsmanship and product differentiation. Among the exhibitors attracting particular attention is La Lainière de Picardie, part of the Chargeurs PCC Group, which specialises in interlinings for the ready-to-wear sector.

Its participation highlights the continuing relevance of European textile manufacturing, combining industrial heritage with certified materials and a responsible sourcing proposition. The organisers see this as an example of European manufacturers seeking to expand their international reach through premium production.

Another first-time exhibitor is Estonia's Osaühing Tekser Grupp, a specialist in high-end linen manufacturing. Its presence reflects growing interest in premium natural fibres where traceability and quality are increasingly important purchasing considerations.

The Initiatives area in Hall 4 will further explore the relationship between traditional craftsmanship and innovation, with showcases from Korea, Türkiye and the China Textile Innovation Center, alongside Chargeurs PCC and technical textile specialist Oracle. Students from Atelier Chardon Savard will also present 12 looks exploring textile finishing techniques, creativity and material innovation.

Sourcing strategies become more geographically diverse

Apparel Sourcing Paris will bring together more than 500 manufacturers of garments and fashion accessories, maintaining participation at a level comparable with September 2025 despite the more challenging global economic environment. China, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and the Euro-Mediterranean region remain at the heart of the sourcing offer, but the geographical mix is becoming more diverse.

Armenia returns with around 10 companies following strong interest in its debut in September 2025, while Kyrgyzstan will have around 15 exhibitors for its second consecutive appearance. Uzbekistan is expanding its presence, while Bulgaria will make its first physical participation with a pavilion bringing together several manufacturers.

Meanwhile, established sourcing countries including Pakistan, Myanmar and Bangladesh will retain significant representation. The organisers point to Bangladesh's continuing importance as the world's second-largest sourcing hub for finished apparel after China.

Near sourcing moves centre stage

Perhaps one of the most significant developments is the emphasis on near sourcing, as brands and manufacturers seek greater control over lead times and supply chains.

Developed in partnership with FourSource, the Near Sourcing Hub will bring together around 30 companies from Türkiye, Serbia, Romania and Portugal in a 250-square-metre area at the entrance to Hall 3. Ten manufacturers will exhibit physically, while samples from approximately 20 additional companies will be accessible through QR codes connecting buyers to the FourSource digital platform.

The initiative reflects a broader shift towards shorter production lead times, closer supplier relationships and improved supply-chain control — factors that are becoming increasingly important as brands reassess sourcing strategies.

New categories broaden the sourcing proposition

The exhibition is also expanding its product offer. A new Jewellery & Leather area will introduce companies specialising in jewellery and leather accessories, while finished denim products will be identified within the Casual & Sport sector.

A new Outdoor zone, positioned between Texworld and Apparel Sourcing, will bring together around 50 exhibitors spanning technical fabrics for activewear and sportswear garment manufacturers. The organisers describe the new area as a response to the changing needs of buyers seeking complementary sourcing solutions within a single exhibition.

Avantex puts technology and circularity in focus

Technology and sustainability will receive particular attention at Avantex, which will bring together around 30 exhibitors working across innovative materials, technology solutions and responsible initiatives.

Artificial intelligence, traceability, industrial optimisation, circularity, sustainable materials and new business models will all feature, alongside discussions involving manufacturers, start-ups, investors and brands.

The Texpertise Focus AI x SPOTT inspiration hub will examine the growing role of artificial intelligence within the fashion industry. Among the companies featured will be GoldenEye Smart Vision, with an AI-powered textile inspection solution; FreyZein, specialising in technical textiles without petrochemical derivatives; and SAO Textile, which transforms recycled fishing nets into textiles. Other exhibitors will explore the intersection of design, circularity, data intelligence and responsible supply chains.

Entrepreneurial innovation will also take centre stage through the Avantex Fashion Pitch, with start-ups presenting solutions aimed at the long-term transformation of fashion. Finalists will pitch on 31 August before an international jury, with the winners receiving a package of support including a dedicated Avantex stand, a €2,000 prize, access to the Foundry fashion incubator at IFA Paris and other promotional and speaking opportunities.

Looking towards AW 2027-28

Beyond sourcing, the programme will provide a forum for discussion around the issues reshaping the industry, from emerging materials and changing professional skills to artificial intelligence, the regenerative textile economy, sustainability and regulatory developments.

Louis Gérin, Artistic Director of the shows, will present Autopsy, the new Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris trend book, which looks ahead to the Autumn-Winter 2027-28 season.

Circularity will be a further focus through the Threading Circularity Forum on 2 September, organised by the Fédération de la Mode Circulaire and the TCBL association. The programme will examine repair ecosystems, extending product lifecycles, local resources and the reinvention of European value chains through keynotes, a panel discussion and case studies.

For journalists, the Econogy Tour on 31 August will provide a guided look at environmentally responsible initiatives across the exhibition, focusing on circularity, eco-design, traceability and production-process optimisation.

Taken together, the September edition suggests that the sourcing conversation is moving beyond the traditional question of where products can be made towards how, how quickly and under what conditions they can be made. The stronger emphasis on near sourcing, traceability, technical expertise, premium natural fibres, AI and circularity reflects an industry attempting to balance competitiveness with greater resilience and responsibility.

Photos from Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris February 2026 edition, by Lucia Carpio

Wednesday, 18 February 2026

Trade Fair Report: Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris Reports Strong French Turnout and Qualified International Demand at 58th Edition

Organisers of the 58th edition of Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris have reported positive results after the three-day event closed on February 4, 2026, at the Paris-Le-Bourget Exhibition Centre. The show brought together 1,100 exhibitors and, according to organisers, reaffirmed its role as a leading global sourcing platform for international buyers.

Despite ongoing economic shifts and changes to distribution networks, the event delivered solid business activity. Attendance was slightly down compared with February 2025 but stable against the September edition, reflecting broader structural changes in the apparel market. French visitors accounted for 22% of total attendance — a notable increase — followed by the UK (9.4%), Italy (6.5%), Spain (6.2%), with the Netherlands and Germany each at 4.1%.

Messe Frankfurt France said the figures underline the continued importance of major European markets in driving the sector. Julien Schmoll, Marketing and Communication Director, described this edition as “more concentrated but more targeted,” highlighting the quality of visitors and the intensity of business discussions.

Long-standing partners — including the Istanbul Chamber of CommerceChina National Textile and Apparel Council and the Korea Federation of Textile Industries  — reported strong commercial engagement and qualified buyer meetings.

Exhibitors echoed the positive outlook. Oracle Textile Technology, a Chinese specialist in technical fabrics for premium down jackets, said it met major European and American accounts and achieved its objectives. Huaren Linen cited new prospects alongside established clients such as Marks & Spencer and Monoprix. Bangladesh-based Sara Fashionwear reported that 10–15% of its contacts were new, particularly from Eastern Europe.

Buyers emphasised a growing focus on premium quality, competitive pricing and supply chain responsiveness. Céline Simon of Gémo identified opportunities with Egyptian manufacturers and accessories suppliers, while Paris designer Lamine Badian Kouyaté, founder of XULY Bët, praised exhibitors’ flexibility after sourcing knitwear partners capable of accelerating delivery timelines.

Frédéric Bougeard, President of Messe Frankfurt France, said the show reflects a more selective and demanding market, adding that its “smart sourcing” model prioritises curated offers and concrete projects over volume.

The next 59th edition of Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris will take place from August 31 to September 2, 2026, at Paris-Le-Bourget. It will incorporate the Avantex Paris sector, dedicated to sustainable fashion technologies, further strengthening links between sourcing, innovation and industry transformation.

Images by Lucia Carpio

Wednesday, 7 January 2026

Trade Fair: Top Drawer Returns to London with Innovation and Commercial Focus

 The Top Drawer S/S26 trade fair is set to open its doors at Olympia London from 11 to 13 January 2026, bringing together the UK’s design-led brands, retailers and industry influencers for three days of discovery, commerce, networking and insight. 

Now established as the leading destination for independent and speciality retail sourcing, Top Drawer’s “Fast FWD to Design” theme signals a forward-looking programme that blends curated product showcases with commercial insight and trend foresight. The show’s organisers report significant growth in exhibitor numbers and sector diversity, reflecting strong demand from both established buyers and new entrants to the market.

More than 550 contemporary exhibitors will present across seven curated sectors, including Home, Gift, Fashion, Wellbeing, Play, Greetings & Stationery, and Launchpad, an area dedicated to emerging designers and makers, according to the organisers.  They say around 26 per cent of exhibitors are new to the show, while key categories such as PLAY, Home and Fashion are experiencing double-digit growth compared with previous editions. 

For retail buyers, Top Drawer delivers a blend of trend insights, practical workshops and live pitches as part of its expanded content offering. The Retail Revealed Live stage returns with future-facing talks and expert panels, while The Social Studio, a new addition for 2026, provides hands-on sessions aimed at helping brands refine their digital and social media strategies. 

The Headline Speaker this season is Nick Robertson, Co-Founder of ASOS, who is bringing a high-profile perspective on scaling an international online fashion brand; his session is expected to include insights into customer behaviour, strategy, and the future of retail growth.

Speakers who will focus on Retail Strategy and Innovation are Hanan Tantush, Founder & Creative Director, Intotum on co-designing with disabled communities shapes adaptive fashion and inclusive product development; and Kate & Lyns, Co-founders, Buying & Beyond, who will feature in the Buying & Beyond Podcast LIVE, exploring how AI can support smarter retail operations and merchandising. 

On the topic of Brand Building, Marketing and Social Media, speakers Kirsty Raper and Andie McDowell, Co-founders, Reels Rockstars will share practical guidance on avoiding common pitfalls when using Reels and other short-form formats.  Aggie Meroni, Founder of White Bee Digital, is a Specialist in creative digital advertising and will lead discussions on simple ad creatives and platform strategies. 

Other speakers include Andrea Rainsford, Creator, Buyology who will explore the psychology of buyer behaviour, helping retailers understand what drives purchase decisions; Priscilla Pollara, Founder & PR Coach of Top Trick to address how founders can communicate clearly about their business to better engage customers and media.  Alice Loveday, Founder, Loveday Social will host a hands-on Social Studio masterclass to demonstrate real-time content creation for social platforms with attendee participation, while Cara Bendon, Brand Consultant, will speak on differentiating a brand in crowded markets and building iconic positioning.

A particularly notable feature for this season is Product Pitch, developed in partnership with Retail Huddle and co.lective Pop-Up. This live pitching event gives selected exhibitors the opportunity to present directly to industry judges in front of a live audience — a format organisers describe as bringing investment-style energy to a traditional trade fair setting. 

Trend forecasting remains a core component of the show’s draw. Working with The Better Trends Co., Top Drawer will showcase season-defining insights that translate emerging aesthetic and consumer shifts into commercially relevant guidance for buyers. 

Industry leaders have welcomed the return of Top Drawer, emphasising its value as a sourcing platform that combines creative discovery with serious buying opportunities. According to prior show data, previous editions have attracted a substantial increase in high-budget buyers and international attendance, underlining the event’s growing global relevance. 

Top Drawer S/S26 also offers structured networking and business support through the Business Hub, where attendees can access mentoring, strategy sessions and expert advice tailored to independent and design-focused retailers. 

Organisers expect the January edition to set the tone for retail buying and design trends entering the Spring/Summer 2026 season, reinforcing Top Drawer’s reputation as an essential fixture in the UK retail calendar.

Images from Top Drawer

Tuesday, 16 December 2025

Trade Fair News: Première Vision Paris Unveils New Visual Identity and Theme for February 2026 Edition

Première Vision Paris has announced details of its February 2026 edition, scheduled to take place from 3 to 5 February 2026 at the Parc des Expositions in Villepinte. The organisers have revealed a new visual identity designed to illustrate the show’s key seasonal theme and signal its creative direction.

The visual identity for the February 2026 edition captures a forward-looking and joyful vision of fashion, where craftsmanship and creativity are reinvented through hybridisation. At its centre is a striking juxtaposition: the couture volume of tulle, emblematic of expressive ornamentation, merges with the sporty functionality of a trainer and a bomber jacket. The image highlights a new creative territory in which technical expertise, emotion and sophistication intersect, reflecting Première Vision’s ability to reinterpret savoir-faire, bridge tradition and innovation, and embody a freer, more dynamic and contemporary fashion landscape.

Reaffirming its commitment to supporting craftsmanship and highlighting territories of expertise, the organisers have positioned the show as a journey through the many identities and geographies of savoir-faire. The February 2026 edition will place a particular focus on France, Portugal and Japan—territories recognised for inspiring new ways of making, seeing, creating and thinking.


The theme, titled Territories of Savoir-Faire, celebrates a vibrant ecosystem of creativity that brings together pioneers redefining the boundaries of their craft. It presents savoir-faire as a living resource—human, social, artisanal, cultural and patrimonial—explored from the closest to the most distant, from upstream to downstream, and from agriculture to the designer. The approach reflects a desire to examine local models as blueprints for the future, emphasising the rediscovery of existing resources, the cultivation of local skills, the defence of diversity, reconnection with living systems, and the renewal of textile culture and innovation.

“Our ambition is to support the industry through its profound transformation and help build a model that is sustainable, competitive and desirable,” the organisers said. 

At the show, the Territories of Savoir-Faire theme will unfold as an immersive journey, featuring dedicated experience zones and exclusive talks that give voice to the craftsmanship of today and tomorrow. Visitors will be invited to engage with some of the world’s richest reservoirs of expertise and experience the theme in all its vitality.

Within this framework, France is highlighted for its culture and counter-culture, representing a territory where savoir-faire bridges heritage and contemporary creation. Portugal is recognised for its commitment to living sustainability, bringing together industries and artisans dedicated to sustainable fashion. Japan is showcased for its nature-minded approach, where textile tradition meets biotechnological innovation.

The organisers expect to welcome close to 1,000 exhibitors from 36 countries. For more than 50 years, Première Vision Paris has brought together fashion professionals from across the globe, establishing itself as a unique sourcing and solutions hub that addresses the challenges and needs of fashion businesses, from mainstream to luxury, through a rigorously curated offer representing the world’s major sourcing regions.

The show spans the entire industry value chain, including yarns, designs, fabrics, accessories, leather, manufacturing, and smart creation encompassing materials and fashion technology. It highlights rare know-how, artisanal and innovative techniques, large-scale production capabilities, solutions tailored to capsule collections, bespoke product development, operational agility, and complementary price positioning. By combining rigour, inspiration and expertise, Première Vision Paris aims to meet the needs of style, purchasing, production, CSR and development teams as closely as possible.

Images from Première Vision Paris 

Tuesday, 18 November 2025

Trade Fair: Denim Première Vision returns to Milan with a focus on innovation and responsible transformation

Denim Première Vision SS27 edition to be dedicated to innovation, creativity,
and responsible transformation in the denim industry. 
Image from 
Denim Première Vision 
Denim Première Vision - the textile trade fair - returns to Milan’s Superstudio Più this November 26–27, 2025, with an edition dedicated to innovation, creativity, and responsible transformation in the denim industry. Reinforcing its role as an international reference for the entire denim value chain, the show acts as a creative laboratory, gathering iconic names, emerging labels, and textile innovators to share ideas and inspiration. 

This Spring-Summer 2027 edition invites visitors to immerse themselves in the future of denim, through a curated selection of international exhibitors, a conference program, and exclusive creative collaborations. 

Among this year’s highlights, several renowned figures will headline the event. Amy Leverton, international trend forecaster and founder of Denim Dudes, will share her inclusive, modern, and eco-conscious vision of denim culture. A trusted voice in the industry, she has collaborated with brands such as Levi’s, GAP, and H&M.

Supported by the Kering Material Innovation Lab (MIL), a world leader in sustainable textiles, who supports both the group’s iconic houses (Gucci, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga…) and a new generation of designers in developing responsible creations, S|STYLE - DENIM LAB will showcase the latest projects of 8 rising designers.

Kristian Guerra, Head Designer at 44 Level Group, signs the concept and art direction for the Denim Forum and will share his experimental vision of contemporary denim in an exclusive talk.

Innovation takes center stage with eco-designed materials such as cacao fiber developed by Doors, or bio-based dyes by Chloris Biochem, Emily Gubbay’s circular colour system, cutting-edge technologies, and sustainable processes like Calik’s zero-water dyeing method. Responsible luxury is represented by exhibitors including Geocot, Stylem Takisada, Caitac, and ISKO, who bring exceptional fabrics and high-end creativity to the pursuit of ever more desirable and durable denim.

Over 65 international exhibitors will showcase their SS27 collections, including 60% weavers, 20% garment makers, 6% accessory suppliers, and 5% chemical producers—covering the full denim supply chain. 

Highlights of the show:- 

FASHION DISTRICT

The Fashion District doubles its size to welcome more than 20 ready-to-wear and accessory brands. Rising talents and established labels will unveil exclusive capsule collections co-created with denim exhibitors.

Daily Blue by Adriano Goldschmied, Demiurgo, Emina Batik, Fade Out Label, Gimmi Jeans, Hooded Myv, Kentroy Yearwood, Lucia Chains, Marios, Nik Gallo, Simon Cracker, Stripes Of-F Road, Tmmt Clothing, Victor Hart

S|STYLE - DENIM LAB - supported by Kering Material Innovation Lab (MIL)

Founded in 2020 by Giorgia Cantarini, journalist and stylist, S|STYLE is the independent platform dedicated to emerging creatives who want to work with sustainable criteria. The 2025 edition, in collaboration with KERING MIL, Kering's Material Innovation Lab, focuses on denim and responsible water management, in line with Kering Water's Strategy for a net positive water impact by 2050. As guest of honor, Kering’s MIL partners with 8 brands that will be presented in the Fashion District. — Gerrit Jacob, Gisèle Claudia Ntsama, Institution, Jeanne Friot, Macy Grimshaw, Nadya Dzyak, Phan Dang Hoang and Sia Arnika — to develop projects that merge creativity and sustainability. The exhibition space will feature a site-specific installation created to emphasize the identity and the value of the project. using recycled and denim fabrics, enhancing the designers’ creations.

TREND FORECASTING

Denim specialist Julieta Mercerat (Première Vision) and trend expert Amy Leverton (Denim Dudes) will present the SS27 denim forecast in 2 exclusive season seminars to explore the cultural narratives shaping the future of jeans. Full conference program here.

DENIM INDEX

A brand-new area showcasing over 150 fabric and accessory samples from 30 exhibitors. This curated selection is designed to facilitate material sourcing for jeans production and to provide a clear and immediate overview of the show’s global offer.

DENIM FORUM

Imagined by Kristian Guerra, this forum offers a unique interpretation of SS27 trends through an innovation materials zone and, for the first time, an exhibition of silhouettes created with exhibitors’ fabrics.

SPORTSWEAR INTERNATIONAL - 50 YEARS ANNIVERSARY

The iconic publication celebrates its 50th anniversary with two evening events in collaboration with Denim Première Vision and Pioneer Denim on November 26, on-site.

Tuesday, 4 November 2025

New Launch: Iluna Group Unveils Sustainable Lace Collection at MarediModa 2025 in Cannes

At this year’s MarediModa fair – the international trade show for beachwear, lingerie, and athleisure fabrics and accessories, held in Cannes from 22 to 24 October – the Iluna Group enticed visitors with the launch of its new lace collection, described as a fluid material that caresses the skin while exuding effortless elegance.

The innovative collection spans stretch laces crafted with ROICA™ EF premium stretch fibre, which contains up to 80% recycled content, and extends to customisable, GRS-certified Lurex nets featuring exclusive prints and flocking. Also showcased were materials composed of up to 99% recycled yarns, including Qnova™ and Renycle™ recycled polyamides — marking a bold step towards a new generation of sustainable and responsible beachwear.

Iluna Group laces, Lurex GRS
Among the highlights, Iluna presented:

Customisable, luminous GRS-certified Lurex mesh fabrics

Exclusive certified printing and flocking finishes

Sustainable fibres such as organic cotton, FSC-certified spun-dyed viscose, recycled polyamides (Qnova™ and Renycle™), and the premium stretch fibre ROICA™ EF, part of the ROICA Eco-Smart™ family.

The collection embodies the new face of beachwear: refined yet environmentally conscious, combining aesthetics, innovation, and respect for the planet. The result, described by Iluna as “a sea to wear”, features light, sensual, and high-performance textures that express allure in every movement and freedom in every wave.

Founded in 1970, the Iluna Group has long been recognised for its excellence, creativity, and responsible innovation in lace manufacturing. A pioneer in redefining lace as a medium of contemporary beauty, Iluna has accompanied women through every stage of life — from intimate lingerie to sophisticated fashion, from activewear to beachwear — offering designs that unite research, elegance, and comfort with a strong commitment to sustainability.

Thursday, 2 October 2025

Trade Fair Report: Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris draws 7,000 buyers as innovation and craftsmanship take centre stage

Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris closed its 57th edition on a high note, attracting more than 7,000 buyers across three days, according to organisers Messe Frankfurt France.  The fair presented 1,300 garment and textile companies from 35 countries.


Held from 15 to 17 September 2025 at the Parc des Expositions in Le Bourget in Paris, the fair saw particularly strong attendance from France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Germany. Visitor numbers were up 25% compared to the July 2024 edition, with organisers attributing the increase to the decision to return to the event’s traditional September slot.

Attendance was also more evenly spread across the three days, supported by a redesigned layout. Two halls were devoted to product offerings and one to services, complemented by networking spaces, relaxation areas and trend forums. The setup was intended to encourage connections while providing a more accessible stage for new ideas.


 

For the first time, exhibitors were almost equally divided between textiles (Texworld Paris) and finished garments and fashion accessories (Apparel Sourcing Paris).


“This evolution reflects buyers’ needs,” explained Julien Schmoll, Marketing and Communication Director at Messe Frankfurt France. “Brands are increasingly outsourcing not only production but also design, seeking suppliers who can deliver turnkey collections: creative, high-quality, competitively priced products, especially in the mid-range and premium segments.”

With 1,300 exhibitors, including those in the Avantex sector, the event strengthened its position as Europe’s leading sourcing fair. Several international manufacturers sought to expand their European presence, including Hong Kong-based knitwear producer Wing Ka Shing, which manufactures in DongGuan, China. Currently selling more than 80% of its products to US brands, the company is seeking to diversify into Europe to avoid US import tariffs.

“We came to showcase our products and connect with European buyers,” said the company’s Sales Manager, who noted strong interest from Spanish fashion teams.

The Near Sourcing Hub, organised with Messe Frankfurt partner FourSource, spotlighted suppliers from Central, Eastern and Southern Europe. Portuguese knitwear manufacturer FashionTeam, one of eight companies exhibiting on-site, reported keen interest from French and Spanish buyers.

“They don’t come to us for the price – they come for the service: quality, fast turnaround and flexibility,” said CEO Soames Rudowski. A further 28 suppliers presented samples digitally via QR codes linked to FourSource’s B2B platform.

The Initiatives area at the entrance to Hall 4 highlighted exceptional creativity. Pasari Textiles of India demonstrated traditional hand embroidery, while the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce presented contemporary Turkish designs. Students from LISAA Mode produced live knitwear and crochet pieces, and the China Textile Innovation Centre (CTIC) showcased designs from selected Chinese manufacturers.

Innovation was also at the forefront.

Avantex Paris served as the fair’s innovation hub, with around 30 participants presenting technologies for sustainable fashion. The show was divided into three areas: the HUB for services and solutions, the Designer HUB for studios and agencies, and ReSources, curated by Textile Clothing Business Labs (TCBL).

A busy programme of debates and round tables tackled themes such as artificial intelligence, circularity, bio-based materials and new consumption models. One of the highlights was the Bio Fashion Innovation Day, organised by TCBL, which presented advances in eco-design and localised production.



In addition, Messe Frankfurt’s Econogy Tour introduced visitors to exhibitors engaged in verified CSR initiatives, part of its wider Texpertise Econogy framework.

GoldenEye Smart Vision claimed the top prize at the Avantex Fashion Pitch 2025 for its AI-powered textile quality control system, which detects defects, improves production efficiency and reduces waste.

A “special prize of the heart” was awarded to Green Worms, an Indian micro-enterprise that collects and recycles local waste, creating sustainable employment for women from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“By recognising GoldenEye and Green Worms, we are celebrating innovative solutions that address major challenges, from digitalisation to sustainability,” said Claudia Franz, Director of Brand Management at Messe Frankfurt, and Julien Schmoll of Messe Frankfurt France.

Winners will receive financial support, exhibition space, business coaching and international visibility. With 11 projects competing, the competition reaffirmed its role as a launchpad for sustainable fashion start-ups.

Meanwhile a TikTok Shop debuts live shopping at the fair this season with a Global Selling Product Selection Event, where influencers hosted live shopping sessions featuring exhibitor products.

“We wanted to give our exhibitors the chance to explore this new distribution channel and learn from it, as retail continues to evolve,” said Frédéric Bougeard, President of Messe Frankfurt France. TikTok Shop, launched in France in March, already has more than 21 million users.

Looking ahead to 2026

Organisers have announced that the next spring–summer edition of Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris will take place from 2 to 4 February 2026 at the Parc des Expositions, Paris–Le Bourget. 

The February 2026 edition is expected to feature a more curated offering aligned with market demands, confirming its role as a key date in the international fashion sourcing calendar.

Photos courtesy of Messe Frankfurt France

Sunday, 28 September 2025

Trade Fair Report: Première Vision Paris Draws Nearly 20,000 Industry Professionals this September, with Focus on Innovation and Sustainability

Nearly 20,000 fashion and textile professionals gathered in Paris this September for Première Vision, in what organisers described as a milestone edition of the international trade fair. 

Returning to its traditional calendar, the event placed strong emphasis on innovation, technology, and cross-industry collaboration, while also extending its reach into the beauty sector for the first time.

The show - held from September 16 to 18 2025 - comes at a moment of significant change for fashion, as brands and suppliers grapple with climate challenges, geopolitical tensions, and mounting pressure for more sustainable practices.

Première Vision positioned itself not only as a sourcing platform but as a strategic meeting point for debate, foresight, and solutions.

Florence Rousson, Chairwoman of Première Vision and Managing Director of GL Events’ Fashion Division, said the event had moved beyond its original remit:  “Our role today is to help the industry navigate disruption, anticipate change, and provide actionable solutions. Innovation, foresight, and institutional dialogue are key to giving the industry the renewed momentum it needs to build a sustainable, competitive, and desirable model.”

Innovation at the Forefront

A major focus this year was technological advancement, seen both on the show floor and in its programme of talks. Exhibitors highlighted low-impact materials, new sourcing tools, and AI-driven production methods. An immersive CLO 3D showcase drew interest from couture houses said Alexandre Nguyen, Business Development Manager at CLO in France: “Leading couture houses showed genuine interest in our digital showcase space and in the unlimited potential of digital product creation.”







Meanwhile the finalists of the ANDAM Innovation Prize—including 2025 winner Losanje—presented solutions aimed at reshaping the industry.  Nathalie Dufour, Founder of ANDAM, said the collaboration reflected the sector’s transformation: “Innovation and technology play a central role in creating a more efficient, responsible, and competitive industry. Our 10 start-ups had the unique opportunity to showcase their solutions to an international ecosystem and engage directly with key stakeholders.”

Fashion Meets Beauty

For the first time, Première Vision welcomed the beauty industry into its Future Trends Area, with participants including Make Up Forever Academy, Fiabila, Villa Blue by Robertet, and Abondance. The move highlighted growing connections between fashion and cosmetics.

Candice Jagut, Chief Marketing Officer of Fiabila, described the partnership as a “relationship of creative interdependence” between the two industries. “Cosmetics are the colours that fashion brings to life on the skin,” she said.

European Industry Mobilises

Another highlight was the joint appearance of 22 federations from 17 countries, convened by UFIMH, UIT, and Euratex. The groups issued a declaration defending the European industrial model, stressing competitiveness and voicing opposition to the rise of ultra-fast fashion.  The gathering underlined Première Vision’s role as a platform for industry representation and policy dialogue at European level.

Looking Ahead

In addition to its exhibition spaces, Première Vision hosted two dedicated talk stages—one centred on fashion and beauty, the other on technology and market transformation. The sessions brought together experts, designers, and institutional figures to debate the future of the sector.

With nearly 20,000 attendees and an expanded scope that bridges industries, Première Vision Paris 2025 reinforced its position as a global hub for inspiration, advocacy, and innovation at a time when fashion is seeking new direction.

The next  Première Vision Paris  will take place February 3 - 5 2026.

Photos by Lucia Carpio