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Fashion trade shows: the 2026 guide

Trade shows remain one of the best ways to meet new buyers. Here's what you need to know about the major shows, what they cost, and how to maximize your ROI.

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Why trade shows still matter

Despite the rise of digital wholesale, in-person trade shows remain irreplaceable for building new buyer relationships. There's simply no substitute for a buyer touching your fabric, trying your product, and connecting with your team face-to-face.

The most effective strategy in 2026 combines in-person trade shows with a strong digital presence — use shows to open relationships, then use your digital showroom to service ongoing orders year-round.

Major fashion trade shows

  • MAGIC (Las Vegas)

    A major US fashion trade show in Las Vegas. Covers contemporary, streetwear, footwear, and accessories. February and August.

  • Coterie (New York)

    Contemporary and designer trade show in New York. February and September.

  • Première Vision (Paris)

    Textile and sourcing show in Paris, used for fabric sourcing and trend research. February and September.

  • Capsule (New York/Paris)

    Curated trade show for emerging and contemporary brands. Smaller, quality-focused. February and September.

  • Cabana (Miami/Milan)

    Swimwear and resort trade show in an intimate setting. January and July.

  • Pitti Uomo (Florence)

    Menswear trade show in Florence, closely watched for menswear trends. January and June.

Trade show costs

Exhibiting at a trade show is a significant investment. Here's what to budget for:

  • Booth fee: varies by show, booth size, and location; ask each show for its current exhibitor rates
  • Booth design/build: fixtures, signage, and decor
  • Travel & accommodation: for everyone working the booth
  • Samples & materials: sample sets, line sheets, lookbooks

Before you book, work out how much you need to write in orders at the show to cover the total cost, and track what each show actually brings in.

Maximizing trade show ROI

  • Pre-show outreach: Email buyers 4-6 weeks before with your booth number and a link to your digital showroom. Let them pre-shop.
  • Digital follow-up: After the show, send your virtual showroom link within 48 hours. ModaFlow lets you see which buyers engage with your follow-up.
  • Take orders on the spot: Use a tablet with your ModaFlow portal to write orders during appointments instead of collecting business cards.
  • Track everything: Log every buyer meeting, their interest level, and follow-up actions in your CRM.

Make every trade show count

Pre-market prep, on-floor ordering, and post-show follow-up — all in ModaFlow.

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