From July 27-29 Medellin will host Colombiamoda, the most important fashion trade-show in Latin America.
Around 450 national and international exhibitors are expected at this year’s show, along with 1700 international buyers and 400 national and international journalists.
Colombia, and in particular Medellin, has long-established itself as one of the rag trade’s major manufacturing centers and in recent years has also built a firm reputation for the caliber of its native designers.
The event has provided crucial international exposure for a new generation for Colombian designers, such as Silvia Tcherassi, Esteban Cortazar, Isabel Henao and Beatriz Camachao. Promising everything from pret-a-porter to haute couture, daily runway shows, conferences and master-classes, the event expects to attract around 12,000 visitors over the three days.
Whilst the focus may be on showcasing the country’s creative talent, Colombiamoda has proved itself an excellent platform for attracting foreign investment. The event shines the global spotlight on Medellin’s thriving textiles industry, which at present accounts for around 30% of the city’s employment.
Globally-recognised brands, including Ralph Lauren, Oscar de la Renta, DKNY and Carrolina Herrera all manufacture their clothes in the city and the previous years the event has shown considerable convening power among international buyers and businesses.
Inexmoda, the event’s organisor and self-titled “hearts and brains of Colombian fashion” are intent on strengthening Colombia’s stake on the international fashion scene.
For more information see Colombiamoda’s official website.