Mexico is no stranger to the fashion industry. Though still developing, the country has a strong presence and continues to grow as a hub for industry professionals to learn about and share the latest in fashion trends, news, and information. It is no wonder, then, that it is home to Intermoda, the biggest and most important trade-show within Mexico’s fashion industry.
Intermoda is more than a trade-show; it is a network that connects professionals within the industry, helping them grow and learn from each other. This bi-annual event serves to showcase the latest styles and fashion trends and to create interaction among designers, manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, maquiladoras, as well as national and international importers and exporters. Intermoda provides access to lectures given by global fashion experts and runway shows to showcase the upcoming season's collections. It also allows participants to attend workshops as well as set up business meetings to help them connect with new suppliers and promote the growth of their network.
Between January 19th and 22nd, Expo Guadalajara -- a trendy business platform in Mexico -- was home to the 64th edition of IM Intermoda. This year, as all other years, Intermoda attracted a diverse audience of both domestic and global participants, with visitors reaching over 24,000 throughout the four-day span. Professionals from around the world, including Brazil, the United States, Peru, Spain, and others attended for a chance to grow their network and learn about the latest fashion trends.
Throughout the show, 22 runways were filled with different designers showcasing their latest collections for spring and summer. The Mexican-based brand LOVE ZAZU dominated the opening runway under the creative direction of designer Lizbeth Olivares, while Alberto Rodriguez, Vicente Castellón and PRISMA closed the runways, each with spring/summer collections reflective of their own individual styles.
The Designer Corner, a space dedicated to emerging Mexican designers, featured a variety of designers such as: MLM, Mallimo Atelier, Damián Pineda, Secret Code, Diamond Pepper, Magenta 222 and Carlos Herrera. Many clung to the use of natural textiles this season, such as cotton, linen and wool, while some others showcased a flurry of vinyl with chiffon very appropriate for the season. Designs were authentic and heavily inspired by various regions of Mexico these designers call home.
Among the total of 700 exhibitors and nearly 1350 booths at January's show, 17 countries were represented. The United States showcased the designs of Charbel Zoe, a brand that has been modeled by celebrities Shakira and Beyonce, as well as Carter's Oshkosh, a beloved childrenswear brand. Other companies at the show included Desigual and Vitos / Scorpio from Spain, Covolan from Brazil, and Birkenstock from Germany.
Intermoda may have wrapped up this January, but professionals and attendees are already setting themselves up for yet another successful season this July. When it comes to integrating the design fashion industry, Intermoda is the place to be -- the ideal place for designers to strengthen their brand value and generate business in Mexico and beyond.