Turkey's fashion industry has long been a go-to sourcing destination for international fashion companies. And in addition to being a manufacturing hub, Turkey also boasts a well-structured trade fair sector that allows manufacturers with their own brands to showcase their creations to a diverse audience. One such event, the Istanbul Fashion Connection (IFCO), organized by the Istanbul Textile and Clothing Exporters Association, recently concluded its fifth edition in Istanbul. The event, which covered an impressive 100,000 square meters of exhibition space, featured over 600 exhibitors and brands showcasing a wide range of collections, including women's, men's, babies' and children's clothing, denim and activewear, underwear and hosiery, occasion wear, bridal wear, leather goods, and shoes.
Turkey holds a significant position in the European fashion industry, as it is the third-largest supplier of garments and textiles to the EU. The country offers distinct competitive advantages such as short lead times, high manufacturing quality, and customization options. These qualities have been emphasized by Fatih Zengin, the deputy secretary general of the Istanbul Association of Garment Exporters. Zengin highlights how Turkey is able to meet the demands of the fashion industry efficiently and effectively.
At IFCO, a special section called 'The Core' was dedicated to Turkish designers who export their small-scale productions to the USA, Europe, and the Middle East. One notable brand present at the event was Nej, founded by Nej Nejla Güvenç. Nej is recognized as a pioneer in Turkey's vision of sustainable fashion. The brand showcased its collection, which included garments made from fabrics certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard and EcoBamboo. With prices ranging from 160 euros for a sweatshirt to 400 euros for a coat, Nej exemplifies the possibilities of sustainable fashion.
Other brands showcased in 'The Core' area included Armine, Gizia, Kayra, and Viola&Vesper. Viola&Vesper, founded by Ece and Ozge, is known for its evening dresses and glamorous pieces that can be transformed into everyday wear by pairing them with jeans and more casual garments. The brand primarily exports to the Middle East.
Beyond individual designers and brands, IFCO also featured a section dedicated to trends, designed by the Istanbul Moda Academy, a member of the International Foundation of Fashion Technology Institutes. The Fall/Winter 25-26 theme was 'Introspect,' focusing on an individual commitment to self-improvement combined with the use of assistive technologies and artificial intelligence to enhance creativity. This section emphasized design psychology, providing insights into future fashion trends.
Besides showcasing designers, IFCO also hosted a pavilion catering to established brands and manufacturers. One such brand was Cebir Giyim with its Maraton Sportswear brand. Starting in a small tailor shop in 1992, Cebir Giyim expanded its business and acquired the Maraton Sportswear brand in 2000. Today, the brand has over 100 employees, five stores, and a growing market share. The company focuses on producing sportswear that prioritizes comfort and quality, collaborating with suppliers like Italian fiber maker Fulgar. They also implement innovative techniques such as printing labels directly on fabric to prevent discomfort for consumers.
International partnerships were also evident at the fair. Italian womenswear brand Camomilla collaborates with Turkish company Yüksel Textile, which produces brands like Aj 81 and Yxl Collection. Interestingly, while their products are exported globally, their primary market is Germany.
Sustainability was a recurring theme at IFCO, even in the children's clothing segment. Ozmoz Clothing, a Turkish company, showcased its commitment to sustainability by using processes that reduce water consumption and incorporating organic cotton into their collections. Their eco-friendly approach is well-received by customers from Northern European countries.
The Gelisim Group, a supplier for US company Vf Corporation, showcased its production capabilities for renowned brands such as The North Face, Timberland, Helly Hansen, and Vans. With an impressive delivery time of 4 to 7 weeks and an annual production capacity of approximately 7 million units, Gelisim Tekstil plays a significant role in the global fashion market.
While Turkey's fashion industry continues to thrive, it's worth noting the broader trends in textile and garment imports into Europe. According to SMI data, the top supplier of textiles and garments to Italy is China, followed by France and Spain. However, in recent months, Turkey, India, and Pakistan have experienced declines in their exports to Italy. Nonetheless, Turkey remains a vital player in the global fashion industry.
In conclusion, the Istanbul Fashion Connection (IFCO) provides a platform for Turkey's fashion industry to showcase its strengths. With its booming trade fair sector, Turkey presents a diversified range of fashion brands and manufacturers to a global audience. Furthermore, the country's strategic location, coupled with its competitive advantages such as short lead times and manufacturing quality, solidify its position as a key player in the European fashion industry.
