CIFF x Revolver: A New Era in Fashion Trade Shows
A groundbreaking chapter in the world of fashion trade shows unfolded in Copenhagen from August 9 to 11. These dates marked a significant milestone for the Danish capital as it witnessed the inaugural joint edition of CIFF and Revolver fairs at the Bella Center. This union came after CIFF acquired Revolver in January of the same year. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation as this transformation set the stage for an exceptional combined event. CIFF x Revolver, with larger ambitions and a global outlook, is now poised to make its debut in the United States this week.
A Fresh Approach to Danish Fashion
The expectations were high for this inaugural edition, the 61st for CIFF. It faced the challenge of staying true to the individual identities of both fairs while forging a new, synergistic identity that would benefit all participants. In essence, CIFF x Revolver needed to strike a balance that satisfied as many industry professionals as possible.
The bustling activity in the aisles and the remarkable attendance figures indicated a successful fusion of Danish fashion offerings. This season, the event witnessed a threefold increase in the number of visitors, surpassing 17,000 (with 7,000 on the rainy first day alone). While Scandinavian countries dominated attendance, accounting for 60% of visitors, CIFF x Revolver also attracted significant participation from markets such as Germany, the UK, Benelux, and France.
With an expansive exhibition space spanning 20,000 square meters, the fair featured over 500 exhibiting brands, primarily hailing from Scandinavian markets, and a strong representation from the UK, Germany, Italy, and France. Detailed data on the total number of companies from each fair wasn’t provided by the organizers. This season, invited buyers included a diverse mix, from Italian multi-brand stores to regular buyers from Nordic markets and professionals from France, Asia, and the United States.
Sofie Dolva: The Event Director’s Vision
Sofie Dolva, the event director who assumed leadership at CIFF last summer, emphasized the event’s significance as it united the global fashion industry in Copenhagen. She highlighted their unwavering pride in the Danish fashion industry and their responsibility as a bridge between Copenhagen and the world.
In terms of innovations, the fair adopted a more pragmatic approach, with a layout that was less curated compared to CIFF’s previous editions. The dedicated sustainability area was removed to incorporate environmental responsibility as a fundamental aspect throughout the event. The space allocated for customary conferences also saw a reduction, emphasizing adaptability and addressing immediate business needs.
Optimistic and Ambitious Brands
Many well-established and debutant brands expressed their optimism about the CIFF x Revolver collaboration. Labrum, a London Fashion Week regular and CIFF veteran, occupied a prominent space with an artistic sculpture inspired by Africa. Other brands, such as Snow Peak, Marimekko, TG Botanical, Holsweiler, Henrik Vibskov, Helmstedt, and Isnurh, showcased their collections and experienced positive interactions.
The footwear sector was well-represented, with brands like Sebago, Pavement, Buffalo, and Steve Madden participating. Several agencies with permanent showrooms at the fair also contributed to the sector.
The beauty brands’ section, an initiative by the fair’s director, featured about 15 fragrance and skincare representatives. While participation remained modest, brands like Bodyologist, Inuacare, and Rudolph Care noted the opportunity to meet international fashion buyers as the first step in approaching beauty counterparts.
Danish Fashion Takes on New York
As part of its international expansion, CIFF x Revolver will land in New York during New York Fashion Week through a collaboration with The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and the Danish industry association Wear. From September 7 to 9, the Scandinavian fair will have a 20-square-meter showroom located in Mercer and Grand in New York’s SoHo.
Under the theme of sustainability, CIFF x Revolver will present 12 Danish fashion brands and six US brands pioneering sustainability. This collaboration reflects the commitment to sustainability and transnational cooperation in the fashion industry.
