As the Autumn/Winter 2025/26 fashion season approaches, fashion buyers, designers, and industry professionals are gearing up to prepare for one of the most crucial times in the annual fashion calendar. This season isn’t just about uncovering the latest trends; it’s also about spotting the fabrics, designs, and innovations that will dominate the runways and retail spaces.
Trade shows, fashion weeks, and sourcing expos serve as essential platforms to explore upcoming trends, establish industry connections, and gain insights into the future of fashion. Whether you’re sourcing materials, discovering emerging brands, or looking for fresh inspiration, these events are designed to meet every need.
This detailed guide covers all the major fashion events from January to March 2025. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a comprehensive roadmap to understand the biggest opportunities in the Autumn/Winter 2025/26 buying season.
Why Fashion Buyers Need to Attend These Events
If you’re a fashion buyer, attending these events isn’t just a good idea- it’s a must. Why? Because staying ahead in the fashion world means being where the action is. These trade shows, fashion weeks, and sourcing expos are more than just places to see new clothes or textiles; they’re opportunities to elevate your business, connect with industry insiders, and stay relevant in an ever-changing market. Let’s break it down.
1. Spot Trends Early
As a buyer, your job is to know what’s coming next. Attending events like New York Fashion Week or MAGIC Las Vegas gives you an insider look at the colors, fabrics, and styles that will dominate the next season. Imagine being the first to spot a hot new trend or discover a design that sets your store apart. These events are your crystal ball into the future of fashion.
2. Build Relationships
Fashion isn’t just about products; it’s about people. Whether it’s a conversation with an up-and-coming designer at Omaha Fashion Week or networking with global suppliers at Texworld NYC, these events are where relationships are made. And let’s be real—having strong connections can make a huge difference. Need a rush order on a trending piece? Know the right supplier. Looking for exclusive designs? Have a direct line to an emerging brand.
3. Stay Competitive
The fashion world moves fast. If you’re not staying ahead, you’re falling behind. These events keep you in the loop on the latest innovations, from sustainable fabrics at Première Vision to new technology at the Impressions Expo. Plus, attending shows like the AAFA Executive Summit helps you understand broader industry challenges, like supply chain shifts or sustainability demands. Staying informed means staying competitive.
4. Find Unique Products
Your customers want something different- something they can’t find everywhere else. These events are goldmines for unique finds, whether it’s a one-of-a-kind kidswear brand at Playtime & Kid’s Hub New York or a niche menswear label at the Chicago Collective. By sourcing from a wide variety of designers and brands, you’ll create a product lineup that keeps your customers coming back for more.
5. Learn From the Best
The panels and workshops at these events are full of industry experts sharing insider tips and strategies. Want to know how to leverage sustainability for profit? Attend a talk at the AAFA Executive Summit. Curious about the future of textiles? Dive into the discussions at Texworld or Première Vision. These learning opportunities help you sharpen your skills and gain insights you can take back to your business.
6. Save Time
As a buyer, your time is precious. These events gather hundreds—even thousands—of brands, suppliers, and designers in one spot. Instead of spending weeks hunting for the perfect products or materials, you can find everything you need in just a few days. And with virtual options now available for some shows, you can even access key resources without leaving your desk.
7. Get Inspired
Sometimes, stepping into a room full of creativity is exactly what you need. From the runway shows at New York Fashion Week to the innovation hubs at MAGIC, these events are bursting with ideas. Seeing the craftsmanship, design, and vision of others can spark new ideas for your store or help you rethink your buying strategy.
8. Reinforce Brand’s Reputation
Your customers trust you to bring them the best. Attending these events shows that you’re serious about your business and dedicated to staying on top of industry trends. It also allows you to tell your brand’s story in a more compelling way—whether it’s about sourcing sustainable products or showcasing the latest trends.
January 2025: The Season Begins in Full Swing
1. MAGIC Miami (January 6–7, Miami, USA)
What to Expect
- A fresh addition to the trade show circuit, MAGIC Miami takes the spotlight with a women’s market focus.
- It showcases trend-driven apparel, footwear, accessories, home goods, and beauty products.
- Designed to align with off-cycle buying, this event targets immediate retail needs.
Why Attend:
Miami’s energetic vibe and growing fashion scene make it a strategic location. Buyers can explore brands looking to expand into new markets while enjoying the tropical atmosphere.
2. Première Vision New York (January 14–15, New York, USA)
Since 2000, Première Vision New York has established itself as the premier event for North American fashion professionals seeking high-quality textiles.
What’s on Display:
- Fabrics, leathers, and accessories from top global suppliers.
- Innovations in sustainable and eco-friendly materials.
- A curated experience for sourcing the backbone of any collection.
3. Apparel Sourcing New York City (January 21–23, New York, USA)
For those seeking ready-to-wear collections and private-label opportunities, Apparel Sourcing NYC is the go-to event.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Exclusive focus on finished apparel for men, women, and children.
- Direct connections to international manufacturers specializing in private labels.
- A marketplace tailored to wholesalers and independent designers.
4. Texworld New York City (January 21–23, New York, USA)
Running concurrently with Apparel Sourcing NYC, Texworld offers a deep dive into textile trends.
Why It’s Worth Attending:
- Combines in-person and virtual experiences for broader accessibility.
- Features innovative, sustainable fabrics that are shaping the future of fashion.
- Provides inspiration for designers and buyers looking to craft unique collections.
5. Impressions Expo: Long Beach (January 23–25, Long Beach, USA)
Formerly known as ISS, this event focuses on decorated apparel and imprinted products, making it ideal for brands invested in personalization.
What You’ll See:
- Hands-on demonstrations of the latest printing technologies and techniques.
- Sublimation, embroidery, and other customization options.
- A vibrant community of creators pushing the boundaries of decorated apparel.
February 2025: Spotlight on Style and Innovation
6. Chicago Collective Menswear (February 1–4, Chicago, USA)
Known as North America’s premier menswear show, Chicago Collective emphasizes quality over quantity.
What to Expect:
- A showcase of top-tier brands in classic and contemporary men’s fashion.
- A refined, business-oriented atmosphere ideal for independent specialty retailers.
Why It’s a Must-Attend:
For buyers focused on men’s apparel, this event offers a curated experience with the best in the industry.
7. New York Fashion Week (NYFW) (February 6–11, New York, USA)
NYFW is a global spectacle where leading designers debut their Autumn/Winter collections.
What Makes NYFW Iconic:
- A platform for spotting runway trends that will influence global retail.
- A networking hub where buyers, press, and influencers converge.
- A space to discover emerging designers shaping the industry’s future.
8. Runway 7 Fashion at NYFW (February 6–9, New York, USA)
Adding a unique flavor to NYFW, Runway 7 Fashion combines fashion shows with cultural diversity.
Highlights:
- Supports emerging designers by offering production-to-showcase services.
- Integrates fashion with art, music, and design.
- Celebrates global talent with an inclusive and multicultural approach.
9. Playtime & Kid’s Hub New York (February 9–11, New York, USA)
For buyers focused on children’s fashion, this event offers a dynamic mix of independent and established brands.
What’s Special:
- A curated selection of creative, playful designs for kids.
- A platform to explore lifestyle products alongside apparel.
10. MAGIC Las Vegas (February 10–12, Las Vegas, USA)
MAGIC Las Vegas is one of the largest and most comprehensive fashion trade shows in the world.
Why Attend:
- Home to young contemporary and modern sportswear brands.
- Offers the widest selection of apparel, footwear, and accessories.
- A high-energy event that combines business with entertainment.
11. COTERIE New York (February 18–20, New York, USA)
COTERIE bridges fashion and commerce, providing a platform for innovation and sustainability.
Why It’s Unique:
- A carefully curated event for connecting with global brands and designers.
- Panels and discussions on the future of fashion, including ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices.
12. MAGIC New York (February 18–20, New York, USA)
MAGIC’s New York edition delivers the same high-energy experience in a more intimate setting.
Who Should Attend:
- Buyers from boutiques to big-box retailers.
- Brands looking to showcase their collections to a concentrated audience.
13. Interfilière New York (February 26–27, New York, USA)
This specialized event focuses on intimate apparel and swimwear fabrics.
Why It Matters:
- Brings together North American brands and international mills.
- Spotlights innovative materials for niche markets.
14. Omaha Fashion Week (February 26–March 1, Omaha, USA)
Omaha Fashion Week has grown to become the fourth-largest fashion week in the U.S.
Key Features:
- A nurturing platform for emerging designers.
- A commitment to cultural vibrancy and community impact.
March 2025: The Season Wraps Up with Big Ideas
15. Chicago Collective Womenswear (March 2–4, Chicago, USA)
The women’s edition of Chicago Collective is a must for buyers seeking elevated fashion experiences.
Why Attend:
- Features hundreds of premium brands in apparel, accessories, and footwear.
- Focuses on providing a high-end buyer experience.
16. AAFA Executive Summit (March 5–7, Washington, D.C., USA)
This summit is a high-level event for C-suite executives in fashion and retail.
Topics Covered:
- ESG priorities and sustainable growth.
- Insights into future-proofing the industry and shaping smart policies.
Planning Your Fashion Calendar
With such a packed schedule, planning your attendance is key. Start by identifying your priorities—whether it’s sourcing, trend discovery, or networking—and align them with the events most relevant to your goals.
Tips for Making the Most of These Events
- Do Your Research: Know which brands or suppliers will be present and schedule meetings in advance.
- Prepare Questions: Whether you’re sourcing fabrics or buying finished collections, come prepared with specific queries.
- Network Actively: Bring plenty of business cards and connect with industry professionals to expand your network.
- Stay Organized: Take notes and photos to keep track of what you’ve discovered.
The Bottom Line
The Autumn/Winter 2025/26 buying season offers unparalleled opportunities to explore the future of fashion. From sourcing innovative materials to discovering emerging brands, each event on this list is a gateway to inspiration, creativity, and industry connections.
Mark your calendar, pack your bags, and get ready for the season’s most exciting events. The future of fashion awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should buyers prioritize at Autumn/Winter 2025/26 fashion events?
Buyers should focus on discovering sustainable materials, trend-driven collections, and emerging designers. Networking and attending panels on industry innovations are also essential.
2. How can attending MAGIC Miami differ from MAGIC Las Vegas?
MAGIC Miami focuses on immediate retail needs with a smaller, curated selection, while MAGIC Las Vegas offers a broader range of young contemporary and sportswear trends.
3. Are virtual components of events like Texworld NYC worth exploring?
Yes, virtual components provide access to key sessions, suppliers, and materials for those unable to attend in person, offering flexibility and cost-saving opportunities.
4. How does Omaha Fashion Week support emerging designers?
Omaha Fashion Week provides free participation, mentoring programs, and exposure to national audiences, making it a valuable platform for launching new talent.
5. What are the key takeaways from the AAFA Executive Summit?
The summit highlights strategies for sustainable growth, ESG compliance, and industry transformation, offering actionable insights for C-suite executives in fashion.
