From September 29 to October 2, amidst the buzz of Paris Women’s Fashion Week, the exquisite Tuileries Gardens served as the backdrop for the renowned Première Classe trade show. This prominent event gathered an impressive array of approximately 400 fashion accessory labels, encompassing everything from jewelry to footwear and leather goods.
Beneath the radiant Parisian sun, this year’s edition exuded energy and enthusiasm, although the occasional sweltering heat tested exhibitors. Nevertheless, the majority of participants expressed satisfaction, attributing it to robust foot traffic and an increased presence of international visitors.
Bastien Beny, co-founder of the distinguished French leather goods brand Domestique, shared his perspective on the event’s triumph, noting, «This edition was a resounding success, attracting visitors from the USA, Japan, and Korea.» Domestique recently earned recognition by clinching the Grands Prix de la Création de la Ville de Paris in the accessories category.
Maison Boinet, the esteemed belt brand, also voiced contentment. Bruno Jourd’hui, the managing director, commented, «Our collections garnered significant interest; it’s been a productive edition, and our show has been fruitful.» Maison Boinet, recently a part of Enowe Excellence, continues to thrive.
Nilau, an emerging high-end leather goods brand specializing in linen and ostrich skin bags, participated in the show for the third time and found ample reason to celebrate. Founder Marie Veyron expressed her satisfaction, saying, «We were forewarned that multiple show appearances are often needed for buyers to truly engage with and become intrigued by a brand. Thus, it was a successful show for us, and it’s now time for reflection.»
For 10.03.53, the youthful leather goods label led by Italian entrepreneur Luca Colosimo, the three days of trade fairs also yielded promising results, attracting a dozen new prospects. This remarkable progress for a label established just before the pandemic is complemented by its own boutique in Paris’s Belleville district.
While this year’s Première Classe undoubtedly left a positive impression on its participants, it doesn’t entirely dispel the concerns associated with the prevailing economic climate. Some exhibitors noted the absence of certain international buyers, who, amid uncertain times, have shifted their focus toward best-selling items and are momentarily less inclined to explore new products.
Others observed that, while this edition generated interest from Asian and American buyers, it didn’t result in a multitude of firm orders. In the days to come, brands will undertake a thorough evaluation of this year’s Première Classe exhibition.
