Splash Paris scores in new venue!

Splash Paris running from 20th to 22nd June was well received in its new venue at Pavillon Gabriel, 5 Avenue Gabriel (Paris 75008). Speaking to Alex Lyles, co-organiser of the event, she commented:

We have more new brands applying than ever. With trading being really tough, some  brands have abandoned the idea of exhibiting at a Paris Showroom as the standalone route is both expensive and not sometimes very productive. We however intend to stay in this venue for our September event as it on the ‘circuit’ and close to fashion showrooms.”

It was agreed by virtually all the brands there that Thursday was a good day for traffic and interest but that this fell off a little on Friday (where it pelted rain most of the day until about 5.00pm).  Returning exhibitors Bond-Eye and Sea Level said that the show had been good for them.  Sue Humberstone, Sales Director of Aussie brand, Sea Level said: ” We had a really really busy day on opening day and although Friday was  a little quieter, we are happy with the exposure and the orders we gained.”

Amongst first time exhibitors were Moon + Mellow, Maison Saint Julien and Watercult. Maison Saint Julien is a French resortwear brand created by Julie Carr Audibert, a world traveller who saw that there was not really a proper French resortwear brand pre-COVID. Already doing well in Australia, she was showing at Splash to gain more European exposure for the label She said: “We felt we had to show at Splash and we have met interested parties. There is definitely a market for timeless, understated and elegant garments such as Maison Saint Julien.”

Moon + Mellow, a resortwear and lounge brand created in Ireland also showed for the first time (having done Curve previously). Cliona O’Brien, Founder and Owner of the brand said: “This is definitely the better show for us in terms of our luxury brand profile. We have met buyers from a lot of different countries and I have done some business with customers in Dubai so it is a good start for me. It is always difficult as a first-time exhibitor as the buying audience has generally never met you or know anything about your brand.  I am considering showing again in September so reinforce the first beginning.”

Dominik Bosset, Director of Maryan Beachwear, who were showing their key Watercult brand for the first time echoed these sentiments. “When you are new to a show, it is sometimes difficult but that said, we did have a good day on the first day and the brand does seem to fit in the profile of the Show.”

The September edition of Splash Paris will take place from 28-30 September in their usual format of Saturday-Sunday-Monday.