The Functional Fabric Fair, powered by Performance Days, concluded its summer edition in New York City with record-breaking attendance. The event saw an 18 per cent increase in attendees, attracting industry giants such as Calvin Klein, Hoka, L.L. Bean, Nobull, Peter Millar, Under Armour, and Vineyard Vines.
Key industry figures praise event
The fair has become a crucial event for apparel CEOs, designers, sourcing and material managers, and product development executives. With over 140 sustainable-certified suppliers, the fair showcased the latest in high-performance functional fabrics, finishes, trims, and accessories for the 2025/2026 seasons. Attendees praised the event for its focus on performance and sustainable sourcing.
The show floor was a hive of activity, featuring cutting-edge innovations, hands-on demonstrations, and interactive exhibits. These showcased the latest advancements in sustainable textiles. The event also provided numerous opportunities for education, networking, and business sourcing, setting it apart from other textile trade events.
Steve McCullough, the Event Director of Functional Fabric Fair, emphasized the event's unique offerings, which include a productive experience with a curated lineup of top vendors, an easy-to-navigate floor plan, vetted sourcing opportunities through Trend Forum displays, engaging activations, expert-led discussions, and networking opportunities designed to inspire and inform attendees.
Positive feedback and record participation
McCullough observed a high level of participation and enthusiasm at the event, noting the significant presence of returning high-caliber sourcing buyers and professionals, along with many first-time attendees. The event featured packed booths, bustling aisles, and received positive feedback from vendors, contributing to its remarkable success.
The fair featured several notable activations. In the Design Lab (LIVE), sustainable fashion designer Kelly Dempsey, known for her innovative upcycling techniques and a past contestant on ‘Project Runway,’ created a performance kimono-style jacket in real-time using materials from exhibitors. Attendees could engage with her creative process, and the final garment was auctioned for charity during the drirelease-sponsored Happy Hour, with proceeds going to Fabscrap.
Performance trend forum highlights
The Performance Trend Forum displayed highlights across 12 key categories: Baselayer, Midlayer, 2 Layer, 2.5 & 3 Layer, Lightweight & Downproof, Softshell& Outer Midlayer, Shirts, Pants & Tights, Focus Topic, Accessories & Trims, Function Meets Fashion, and New York Exclusive. This exclusive selection of 100 per cent sustainable fabrics was curated by the Experts Jury of Performance Days.
The fair also featured an Expert Talks Program, where industry experts and thought leaders led sessions on seasonal trends in colors and materials, technical aspects of performance wear fabrics, sustainability, and business development. Topics included ethical sourcing, environmental impact, regulations, and future industry forecasts, providing valuable insights for professionals looking to stay ahead in the apparel and functional fabric industries.
Looking ahead: Next edition in Portland
The next edition of the Functional Fabric Fair is scheduled for November 19-21 in Portland, OR, at the Oregon Convention Center. It will kick off with the New Day Zero Sustainability Workshop, followed by the Exhibit Hall and Expert Talks.
This successful edition of the Functional Fabric Fair not only set new records but also solidified its position as the leading trade show for sustainable functional fabrics. With its innovative offerings and strong industry support, the fair continues to be a must-attend event for professionals in the apparel industry.
