Functional Fabric Fair, powered by Performance Days, is set to return to Portland, Oregon, from April 14 to 16, 2025, at the Oregon Convention Center. This North America-exclusive sourcing event brings together more than 300 sustainable-certified suppliers, offering the latest in high-performance functional fabrics, trims, and accessories for Spring 2026 and 2027 collections. The trade-only event continues to be a vital platform for designers, apparel CEOs, and sourcing professionals seeking innovation in outdoor, activewear, and lifestyle performance textiles.
“This year’s edition reflects the evolving needs of our industry,” said Steve McCullough, Event Vice President. “With an expanded exhibit hall, dynamic education programs, and fresh networking opportunities, 2025 promises to be our most engaging event yet.”
Sustainability, education and innovation take center stage
The show kicks off on April 14 with Sustainability Workshop, led by Jill Dumain of Fractal CSOs and sponsored by Hyosung. This in-depth session will focus on material traceability, solvent impact, and sustainable sourcing performance. The workshop will take place in Hall C - Room 123 and requires separate registration due to limited seating.
Throughout the show, attendees can join Expert Talks on the exhibit floor, sponsored by AATCC, to hear from industry leaders sharing insights on emerging trends, case studies, and sustainable solutions. Functional Fabric Fair has also added guided Sustainability Lounge Tours on April 15 and 16, offering 45-minute sessions led by Stewart Sheppard of S2 Consulting, focusing on key sustainable material suppliers.
Expanded show features enhance sourcing and networking
A number of dedicated zones will enrich the attendee experience. The new Wool Forum highlights wool’s performance and eco-friendly credentials, while the Bodywear Collective, sponsored by Lycra, presents next-to-skin innovations including seamless performance sportswear. The AATCC Textile Test Zone offers live demonstrations of official textile testing procedures, while the Innovation Zone introduces breakthrough textile technologies set to transform the industry.
Other highlights include the Trend Forum, a curated display of 12 essential fabric categories focused on sustainability, and the Outdoor Recreation Archive in partnership with Utah State University, showcasing the history of outdoor apparel evolution. Meanwhile, the Media Lounge and Italian Bar offer space to recharge and network, and the Coffee Igloo provides complimentary refreshments to keep energy high.
Live events will feature Project Runway finalist Kelley Dempsey in the Design Lab Live on April 15, creating a garment in real-time using fabrics from exhibitors. Visitors can also attend a new book signing session with author Zoe Hong for her title Fashion School in a Book in the Media Lounge.
Networking continues beyond show hours, including the Covation Bio Happy Hour on April 15 and an after-hours gathering at Spirit of 77, sponsored by Nextex and co-sponsored by Brookwood and Duraflex.
In a move toward digital engagement, the fair is implementing the Colleqt system to replace physical marketing materials. Using QR code scanning, attendees can instantly collect exhibitor information on their phones and receive daily recaps.
Registration is free for verified professionals and students in relevant sectors, while Workshop requires paid registration.
