To be held from Feb 10-13, 2025 at the Powered by Plus Plus Showroom in Manhattan, the second edition of the CIFF x CFDA Showroom at the New York Fashion Week will highlight ten Nordic and two American designers. This collaboration bridges Danish and American fashion markets, with a shared commitment to sustainable innovation.
This event showcases the pioneering steps taken by both the regions to shape a more sustainable fashion industry,” says Steven Kolb, CEO, Council of Fashion Designers of America. The partnership is further driven by CIFF’s mission to amplify Scandinavian fashion, adds Sofie Dolva, CEO. Copenhagen International Fashion Fair (CIFF), emphasising its role in fostering creative exchange and business growth.
One of the highlights of the event is the ‘Stepping Stone of the Year’ award, developed with Elle Danmark, which helps Danish brands enter the American market. The 2024 winner, Skall Studio, along with nominees Remain, Forza Collective, and MKDT Studio, will showcase their collections at the showroom, providing crucial exposure to buyers and industry leaders.
The CIFF balances its focus on sustainability with pragmatic support for brands, states Dolva. It enables change rather than enforcing it, spotlighting brands driving sustainable innovation while supporting broader industry growth. CIFF has also transitioned from biannual events to a year-round platform, partnering with key organisations like Pitti Uomo, Milan Fashion Week, and Neudeutsch in Germany to help brands adapt to evolving economic conditions.
To succeed, emerging brands need to emphasise authenticity and bold innovation, views Dolva. For the first time, CIFF is partnering with ISPO Munich to explore the intersection of sports and fashion. This collaboration will highlight Scandinavian innovation in performance and lifestyle brands while strengthening ties to the German market.
Held on Aug 9, 2024, the 63rd edition of CIFF strengthened its reputation as a key European trade hub. Featuring over 1,000 brands, the event witnessed over 66 per cent rise in international visitors with a notable rise from the DACH region. The fair helped build valuable business relations and also boosted commerce across global markets, notes Dolva.
