As the textile and apparel sector becomes more regulated and consumers are increasingly focused on sustainability and ethical manufacturing, Textile Forum (12-13 October 2022, One Marylebone, London) reflects these changes. This season, for instance, Textile Forum has a number of British mills as well as British suppliers, so buyers can source “locally”; it will also be presenting more collections incorporating sustainable yarns.
Carrington Dazzle light pink
This October’s Textile Forum is the 40th show. Over the past 20 years the industry has experienced challenging times, and, unfortunately, are continuing to do so.”
Event director Amy Packham
“What is encouraging is the resilience shown by both fabric suppliers and customers, many of whom have been with us since 2002. Our exhibitors are keen to promote their creativity alongside their ‘green credentials’, as well as their low minimum order quantities and stock holdings so they can respond quickly to designers’ requirements.”
Pongees
Textile Forum has increasingly been a must attend event not just for fashion designers but also those creating costumes for the entertainment industry, be it grand opera or historical dramas for the leading streaming broadcasters, who are looking for fabrics and specialist skills, such as embroidery. This sector of the industry is particularly buoyant. Additionally, the event is attracting more interiors specialists, an area that is beginning to cross over into more retail apparel businesses.
James Hare embroidered sequinned tulle
Alongside the fabrics, Textile Forum also provides the essential trimmings such as buttons, linings and packaging, as well as garment manufacturing.
Textile Forum is a boutique event that brings together a broad spectrum of the industry in one place so that buyers can easily find what is on their sourcing shopping list and discover new suppliers.”
Adam Mansell, CEO, UKFT
