Textile Forum was held in the UK, March 13 and 14, 2019. The show is a one-stop sourcing platform for brands and designers. This year, the show featured a dedicated manufacturer’s area. Exhibitors ranged from specialist lingerie manufacturers and denim producers to pattern cutters. Some 45 exhibitors – manufacturers, textiles producers and trimmings businesses – showed at the event. Exhibitors praised the positive atmosphere, strong caliber of visitors and the focus on UK names at the latest edition of this fashion fabrics trade show. Despite challenges in the fashion market and continuing unease concerning Brexit, the mood at the show was buoyant. The smaller nature of the show – where textile mills offer lower minimums to buyers than at other shows – meant it was potentially benefiting from the uncertainties in the market, as buyers and designers felt the need for flexibility and adaptability from suppliers.

While most exhibitors attended the show to target smaller businesses, visitors ranged from independent dressmakers, new brands and manufacturers to costume designers, luxury fashion houses and high street names. The majority of buyers were London and UK based, although Turkish and Lithuanian visitors also made an appearance.