"The company outlined the tastes of New York by showcasing 'conversational' prints and scenic designs. The company’s florals in a patchwork arrangement are currently very much on trend and are set to be one of the key looks for the spring/summer 2020 season. Another European exhibitor Lyon-based Ercea International showcased its range of high added-value print-on-pleat products, which reduce the workload of garment makers"  

The recent edition of New York Texfusion Summer 2019 focused more on the price of the garments than their quality. The show displayed showy, conversation-piece prints, and bold and distinctive patterns. In addition, it also showcased eco-friendly textiles known for their low environmental impact. 

A print specialist who exhibited this year was Germany's Gera Gmbh. The company outlined the tastes of New York by showcasing 'conversational' prints and scenic designs. The company’s florals in a patchwork arrangement are currently very much on trend and are set to be one of the key looks for the spring/summer 2020 season. Another European exhibitor Lyon-based Ercea International showcased its range of high added-value print-on-pleat products, which reduce the workload of garment makers.  

Many participating companies felt prices would always trump design quality when it came to actually winning over buyers. The feeling is price is always the key criteria especially in the US market. 

Preference for woven fabrics with checks and gingham

Besides, price sensitivity companies also noted the differences in fabric preferences between the US and Europe. In Europe, the demand is for knitted fabrics while American consumers prefer woven and polyester fabrics. 

The US consumers also prefer checks and gingham. For many firms ginghams are the cornerstone of their US business. 

Ethical production gains prominence

In the past, consumers and buyers were rarely attracted by eco-friendly products, today they flaunt their green credentials to appeal to a young demographic audience. As Thermore, a Milan-based manufacturer of insulated fabric reveals earlier recycled products used to be seen as interesting. Companies liked to have a recycled product, with its wearability being almost incidental. Now, there is a shift from recycled to overall performance and look taking the foreground. 

Along with a low carbon footprint, the ethical nature of the whole production chain is also becoming a major purchase criterion, especially amongst younger customers. There is increasing awareness among consumers about synthetic alternatives which is driving their demand in the sector.