Munich Fabric Start, a leading European fabrics trade fair, is set to ignite the fashion and textiles industry from January 21-22, 2025. Featuring over 625 international exhibitors and showcasing approximately 1,200 collections, the event promises a comprehensive exploration of innovations for Spring.Summer 2026 across its integrated concepts: The Source, Bluezone, Keyhouse, and Munich Fabric Start. Highlights include cutting-edge material advancements, sustainable practices, and transformative technologies.

Trend Forecasts for Spring.Summer 26

This year, trend research reaches new heights with Munich Fabric Start unveiling the seasonal theme ‘Florescence’. Presented by Katharina Majorek and Volker Orthmann of o/m collective, this exclusive forecast examines the five key trends for Spring.Summer 26, emphasising sensory experiences and tactile structures as a counterbalance to virtuality. Additional insights include denim trends by Tilmann Wröbel and a keynote by David Shah, exploring the philosophy of design.

Focus on circularity

Circular design and recycling are central to this season’s agenda. Fireside chats, panels, and presentations spotlight innovations like Looper Textile Co.’s recycling solutions and BASF’s advancements in nylon circularity. Key sessions include the ‘Triple Win’ discussion on recommerce and recycling and a high-profile panel featuring industry leaders like Daniela Antunes and Hélène Smits, emphasizing a circular future for textiles.

Technological Innovations

Technology takes centre stage with advancements in AI, 3D design, and supply chain transparency. Hans Peter Hiemer of Assyst will showcase interactive 3D catalogues, while PaperTale and Remei AG share transformative insights into blockchain-enabled transparency and fibre-to-fashion solutions. The spotlight also falls on Bluezone’s denim innovations, from sustainable dyeing processes to cutting-edge tech features.

Sustainable materials and processes

Keyhouse highlights future-proof developments, including biodegradable textiles from Climatex and pineapple waste-based innovations by Re Root Tex. Other breakthroughs include Datini Fibres’ recycled wool and Livinguard’s antimicrobial technology. Dr. Cornelia Wittke and Nicole Espey will delve into bio-based textile advancements, with groundbreaking mushroom leather and denim dyeing technologies redefining industry standards.

The Sustainable Innovations Forum will showcase pioneering projects like Psychedelic Textiles by Shushanik Droshakiryan and Kantamanto Social Club by Daan Sonnemans. Curator Simon Angel emphasizes the importance of sustainability and impact in material science, reinforced by talks featuring Pangaia’s Blathnaid Geoghegan.

The two-day event concludes with Munique Night, offering unparalleled networking opportunities amidst a vibrant atmosphere. For the textile and fashion industries, Munich Fabric Start remains the ultimate platform for collaboration, inspiration, and innovation.

Event Programme

www.munichfabricstart.com