Some initial thoughts about the AW/ FW 23 show season.

From Pitti Bimbo, to Playtime to CIFF Kids – all the shows built upon their prior outings post lockdown. So with so much at stake for brands, retailers and the shows this season I thought it would be good to share my first impression before publishing our full show reports.

Firstly I’ve been encouraged by both the creativity and the turnout during this AW/FW 23 show season. We had the first runway shows – post pandemic. The collections and designs were more interesting and diverse this season. With production limitation and an array of contributing factors I felt the quality of design and products had been affected lately, but not this season – there was much to see and admire. To hear the buzz of visitors and buyers (like old times) felt like music to my ears, and must have been a welcome sound to exhibitors. It’s so lovely to speak with happy brands.

We rarely focus on the way physical trade shows bring people together. They create friendships and opportunities that can’t quite be replicated in the virtual world. After lockdown it’s been amazing to meet up with such great people face-to-face again. The opportunity to listen to their stories and share new experiences together again should never be taken for granted!

Kids’ fashion and lifestyle trade show reports for AW23 / FW23 to follow…