As the largest event of its kind in Europe and the global flagship of the Turkish fashion industry, IFCO Istanbul Fashion Connection is preparing for its seventh edition on 5-8 February 2025.
With an expanded exhibition centre, a wide range of products and numerous events, the platform has become a must-attend event for the industry. Covering 35,000 sq. m across eight halls, the show will present more than 500 exhibitors and brands – including kidswear – attracting over 30,000 national and international visitors.
Commenting is Mustafa Paşahan, vice president of the Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association (IHKIB).
“Our fashion industry plays a strategic role in our economy through its value-adding production, its contribution to employment and its exports. For years, we have consistently been one of the top three export sectors. We are the sixth-largest supplier worldwide and the third-largest for the European Union. Today, we are a country of brand production with a solid infrastructure and extensive expertise.
“Every year we make significant progress in design and branding. Our brands represent the sector in 3,000 shops in more than 100 countries. Some of our brands are even market leaders in the countries in which they operate. IFCO acts as a driver of the Turkish fashion industry and is an indispensable part of the international fair calendar.”
IFCO #7 at the Istanbul Expo Center will once again bring together trends, innovations and professionals, with the organisers aiming for record numbers of participants and visitors. All facets of fashion and apparel will feature, including kidswear, womenswear, menswear, denim, sportswear, eveningwear, lingerie & hosiery, leather garments, shoes, and accessories.
Kids’ fashion, presented in hall 8, will take centre stage at IFCO’s fashion shows.
The EU’s eco-design initiative, which promotes sustainable product regulations, will also be recognized at IFCO. Sustainable practices and innovative designs will be highlighted at the trade fair to support change in the industry.
With thousands of trade visitors and curated matchmaking, IFCO maximises the efficiency of business contacts and sets new standards for professional networking in the fashion industry. More than 18,000 visitors from over 130 countries registered for the last IFCO in August. Meanwhile, over 30,000 visitors are expected at the upcoming event.
“Every season we receive tens of thousands of international visitors,” continues Paşahan. “At IFCO February 2024, we set a record by welcoming 38,545 visitors from 159 countries, almost half of whom were international – a significant milestone. Franchise brands network with new partners, and export companies make new business contacts. As a result, all our participants leave the trade fair with positive results every season.”
Events: Shows and expertise
Complementing the daily fashion shows will be an extensive program of seminars and workshops featuring expert insights from organisations such as WGSN, IUAD Naples Fashion Academy, Le Koko Collectif, and more.
Meanwhile, The Trend Area, curated by the prestigious fashion academy IMA, serves as a vibrant hub for innovation. This space reflects the latest developments in the fashion industry, offering visitors an engaging environment to explore cutting-edge trends and themes, with this season’s theme being Mindscape.
‘The Mindscape’ concept embodies the connection between science and spirituality, merging technological innovation with holistic wellbeing. It reflects how advancements in digitalization can enhance our understanding of the mind and spirit, creating a synergy that fosters personal growth and ecological awareness.
For further information on IFCO Istanbul Fashion Connection, please click here.
