Regulars to Pitti Bimbo – some 6,870 registered buyers (+2.5% on 2017 with an increase in international attendance: Russia +4.5%, US +18% and Japan +12%) – the trade show that kickstarts the season for kidswear, know it's not just about the static show itself. Split out across areas such as The Nest, Sport Street, Kidz Fizz and Apartment, it brings an unrivalled offering to the market, with 540 brands (315 foreign, and 128 new names or re-entries), bolstered by elaborate presentations and catwalk shows. The Monnalisa show took place in the Attico floor of Fortezza da Basso for the first time, where the brand marked its 50th anniversary with a huge catwalk and after-show party titled The Golden Age. Other highlights included the Children's Fashions from Spain catwalk and the return of the Kidz Fizz and Apartment catwalks.

The 93th edition of Pitti Immagine Uomo was held in Florence, Italy from 9-12 January. The trade show was transformed into a film festival to echo the 'movie' theme, bringing directional fashion and lifestyle programs in fun and fresh ways. This time, fashion experts from all over the world focused on the hottest athleisure style and contemporary designer brands. Well-known or emerging brands showed their products. And most importantly, Pitti Uomo brought fashion brands combining classic menswear with modern sports style to the world.

The A/W 18/19 Premiere Vision is ambitious about the future. A variety of ideas and new arts reflect unceasing creativity, while responsibility and respect to the environment drive attractive, intelligent solutions and original modes, tending to be humorous and eccentric. Classic works are both familiar and illegible, feeling more farcical. The real and digital worlds collide or merge for a dynamic vibe. Technology results in a fantasy world, boldly going beyond reality. The desire for free expression and unique surface reveals an optimistic vision. Printed fabrics show unique artistic charm and fashion sense. Artistic, bright and impactful, these standout designs pack a punch. Think extreme scales, vibrant colored grounds and bold conversationals, all with creative flair.

The A/W 18/19 edition of Premiere Vision Paris is more vibrant than before. The number of exhibitors grows by 3% at 1961. The theme of this season is Touch & Love with eight sub-themes for menswear, womenswear and kidswear. A variety of ideas and new arts reflect unceasing creativity, and environmental protection is still important for Premiere Vision Paris.

The A/W 18/19 Premiere Vision is ambitious about the future. The trade show has eight themes, including Velvet Attraction, Farcical Classics, Sensitive Line, Tactile Textures, Smooth Addition, Mysterious Shine, Enhanced Density and Colour Energy. A variety of ideas and new arts reflect unceasing creativity, while responsibility and respect to the environment drive attractive, intelligent solutions and original modes, tending to be humorous and eccentric. Classic works are both familiar and illegible, feeling more farcical. The real and digital worlds collide or merge for a dynamic vibe. Technology results in a fantasy world, boldly going beyond reality. The desire for free expression and unique surface reveals an optimistic vision.

The fabric exhibition is divided into eight themes, which are Velvet Glamour, Farcical Classics, Sensitive Line, Tactile Textures, Smooth Addition, Mysterious Shine, Enhanced Density and Colour Energy. With sustainability growing into an industry expected standard, brands engage in socially and environmentally responsible projects, or explore innovative materials and processes with an eco-friendly impact.

The new materials spotted in the trade show feature contrasting textures, innovative fibers, mixed patterns, bold brights and glossy technical fabrics. They drive the R&D directions for A/W 18/19 and echo the four themes forecasted by POP & ULB.

Cosy texture continues to evolve as extreme gauges and handcrafted looks are developed to give increasing light and airy qualities. Wool, alpaca and mohair blends in smooth constructions, adding newness to traditional homespun looks. Basket-weave, cable and openwork constructions bring a luxurious touch and hand-feel to fisherman knits.