Since 2020, the world has embraced unprecedented changes beginning with the Covid-19 pandemic, Russo-Ukraine conflict, sweeping changes governmental policies, rising crescendo of climate change, inflation, debt crises, recession and a sea of change in consumers buying attitudes. This has created the central theme ‘Contradiction’ for up-coming Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics Autumn edition organized by Messe Frankfurt from August 28 and 30, at the National Convention & Exhibition Center, Shanghai. This edition is for Autumn/Winter 2024-25 collections. 

One of the most reputable exhibitions for the textile sector that caters to apparel manufacturing, Intertextile Shanghai, Spring and Autumn editions are an excellent platform for textile manufacturers worldwide to showcase their latest portfolio of textiles and network to widen their customer base in the region. As Wendy Wen, Managing Director, Messe Frankfurt Hong Kong says, “We are pleased to welcome the global industry at the Autumn edition of Intertextile Apparel. Notably, SalonEurope including the Made in Germany area and Milano Unica Pavilion were greatly received by domestic buyers, with the latter returning for the first time since the pandemic”. She says, along with Asian country and region pavilions, and international companies, onsite reports from these exhibitors cemented the continued potential for overseas brands in the Chinese market and showed a clear sourcing demand for new, innovative products among Chinese buyers and consumers. This is accompanied by an overwhelming optimism about future prospects in the growing market. Exhibitors also noted that the vast majority of visitors were serious buyers with high purchasing power. 

Conveniently grouped exhibition eases networking

The exhibition area has been clearly demarcated so buyers and sellers can easily make the most of the three-day event. The product groups feature sections including: cotton, wool, silk, linen, ramie, man-made, knitted, coated fabrics as the first group; lingerie & swimwear fabrics as the second group; functional fabrics, printed fabrics, fibres & yarns, embroidery & lace, accessories, textile-related CAD/CAM/CIM technology, design & styling agencies; and the last group is fashion & textile trade publications. 

The application groups include suiting, casual wear, ladies wear, functional wear/ sportswear, shirting, jeans wear, accessories, children & infants wear and the last group being swimwear & lingerie. 

‘Contradiction’ reflects ongoing uncertainties

Inspired by a sense of flux, conflict and impermanence, the theme of ‘Contradiction’ is split into four key trends: Purist, Naïve, Hypnotic and Spectacular. 

The Purist is like stepping back from the noise and settling into an ambiance of simplicity and rationality that is a refreshing take on the elegance of understatement. A neutral, natural tone of raw purity and understated elegance allows a strong focus on the essential charm of natural fabrics. Whether dyed naturally or not dyed, materials such as recycled and regenerated fabrics, premium-quality wool, cashmere, or cotton, are carefully made and delicately finished.

Naïve celebrates our legacy as humans who have been close to Mother Nature for centuries, inspired by her prolific creativity. This neo-retro palette evokes a nostalgia and warmth that heals the human mind, with reinvented fabrics elaborately combining tradition and modernity. Textiles include vintage fabrics, recycled/upcycled materials, handmade leather, patchwork, jacquard, multi-blends of diversified fibres, and more.

Hypnotic draws its inspiration from illusion, romance and fantasy. A bright palette fuses ephemerality and reality. By applying beads and fringes, virtual and wondrous patterns, and colour variation, premium fabrics including silk, cupro, polyester, and cellulose fibre are delicately crafted to express timeless emotion.

The Spectacular trend is inspired by absolute and infinite luxury that is rich, expressive and certainly as sight to behold. A range of dense and dark-coloured fabrics, featuring extravagant, dramatic, opulent aspects and elements of sustainability are the key features of this trend. Prints and finishing include ornate jacquard, bold embroidery with design yarns, heavy satin, sensual motifs, elegant and gorgeous tweed, metallic coating and laminated gold.