Source Fashion Show - Responsible Fashion -

Source Fashion, hailed as Europe’s leading responsible sourcing event, kicked off on July 8th at the iconic Olympia London.

Source Fashion

Source Fashion, hailed as Europe’s leading responsible sourcing event, kicked off on July 8th at the iconic Olympia London, drawing an unprecedented number of attendees. This year’s attendance highlights a growing interest in sustainable and ethical practices as industry leaders, innovative designers, and sustainability advocates converge to discover the latest trends and forge valuable connections.

The rise of “disposable fashion” has notably transformed the clothing industry, and this event showcased a vibrant tapestry of collaborative partnerships aimed at challenging the norms of fast fashion. A collective initiative that not only underscores innovation but also rekindles a sense of purpose within the fashion industry. – Networking Magazine

RETAIL LANDSCAPE

A diverse array of buyers, retailers, and sourcing professionals gathered to promote an atmosphere oozing with enthusiasm and collaboration. Key representatives from industry leaders such as John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, All Saints, and River Island participated, all of whom are committed to driving significant change and engaging younger generations. Their collective vision emphasises innovation and inclusivity, paving the way for a forward-thinking retail landscape.

Lineup

This year’s showcase features an exceptional lineup of 250 responsible manufacturers from over 22 key sourcing regions, including the UK, Portugal, Morocco, and India, among others.

Suzanne Ellingham, Event Director of Source Fashion, remarked, “The energy on the show floor today is incredible. The show welcomed a record number of visitors, ranging from independent retailers to global brands, all eager to explore new and responsible business practices. This event transcends traditional sourcing; it’s a platform for meaningful conversations, innovation, and collaboration. The enthusiasm surrounding our content program and the Source Catwalk and Source Debates stages reflects the industry’s hunger for transparency and change”.

Source Fashion – Catwalk Show

The Source Catwalk Show captivated audiences with stunning collections from various designers, spotlighting three key trends: Electric Nature, Retro Richness, and Creative Joy, each capturing the spirit of the season. Headline partner Reskinned showcased an impressive range of pre-loved pieces, reinforcing the message that resale, reuse, and repurposing can be stylish and chic.

The Source Catwalk and Source Debates stages featured engaging panels that sparked authentic dialogues within the industry. Discussions addressed pressing issues and explored opportunities for substantial change, including whether consumers are genuinely willing to pay more for ethically produced fashion. The panel, moderated by Anna Berry of Retail 100 Consulting, emphasised the importance of transparency and storytelling in an evolving market, underscoring that genuine change depends on collaboration and trust.

Challenging The Conventional

In another notable session, industry leaders explored the concept of a post-growth business model, challenging the conventional profit-driven approach based on volume. The panel, featuring experts from various fashion sectors, advocated for strategies that prioritise fewer, high-quality products, emphasising brand loyalty and circular relationships between consumers and brands.

Linda Peddie, COO & CIO of New Look, shared insights on navigating the complexities of retail, emphasising the necessity of aligned legislation and industry-wide collaboration to drive sustainability. She noted, “You have to make the whole system work,” reinforcing the call for fresh perspectives within the industry.

Source Fashion – The Buzz

The buzz surrounding the event was palpable, with exhibitors praising the energy and calibre of discussions taking place. Aude Priya Wacziarg, Director at Francis Wacziarg Group, expressed enthusiasm about the diverse exhibitors and the event’s atmosphere. At the same time, Sourabh Kankaria, Creative Director at Atiglobal, highlighted the excellent organisation and opportunities for networking.