For designers, the best way to get your fashions into retail outlets is to attend a womens clothing trade show. Buyers from stores all over the world flock to these shows to get a glimpse of new fashions and talented designers. Participating in these shows are imperative if you want your clothing to get noticed.

A secondary benefit of going to womens clothing trade shows is that you'll get to see what other designers are doing. Of course, you have your own individual style, but it's a good idea to stay knowledgeable about what other designers are putting out. Your main goal should still be to showcase your line and attract buyers. Think about the following:

1. Locate womens clothing tradeshows that are a good fit for your line. There are many shows for you to choose from.

2. Plan out an attractive booth in which to showcase your line. Womens clothing trade shows are competitive, so make your brand stand out.

3. Enlist womens clothing trade show services if you need some help getting everything together. Consultants know the industry and can manage events for you.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find the womens clothing tradeshow that's right for you

Choosing the right show at the right time in the right place can be a challenge. There are hundreds of trade shows all over the world, and you have to weed through them to determine which ones are best for you. Consider the dates you're available, how far you're willing to travel and the theme of the show itself. For example, if you're located on the west coast and specialize in women's outerwear, you wouldn't want to exhibit at a swimsuit show in Florida during the summertime.

I recommend: Use the womens clothing trade show directory at Apparel Search to find shows worldwide. BizTradeShows.com is also a great source for locating shows, especially for those who specialize in women's bridal clothing.

Design your womens clothing trade show booth to attract buyers

The first thing you need to do is make your booth visible from afar. You can do this by using large posters and banners that are personalized with your brand's logo and hanging them in a conspicuous place (yes, this includes the ceiling). Your next goal, after getting the buyers to your booth, is to keep them there. Having an interesting display that enhances your line's best qualities is key.

I recommend: Get a customized overhead banner for your booth from The Godfrey Group. Check out the pop-ups, kiosks and stands at Nomadic Display. Show off your garments with the racks from Art-Phyl Creations' HOOKSTORE.

Get womens clothing trade show advice if you're not sure where to start

Understandably, participating in a trade show can be confusing and overwhelming. Here you thought that your main job was just to design clothes, but you also have to market your brand so you can stay in business. Enlisting a consultant to help you figure out the best way to present yourself and your line at a trade show will make you much more comfortable. Womens clothing trade show services can also include arranging the transportation, setup and breakdown of your booth.

I recommend: Contact Great Circle Promotions if you're looking for a full-service trade show support company. Newer exhibitors might be interested in saving some money (the NW Trend Show presented by the Pacific Northwest Apparel Association is an affordable show to check out), and should contact Exhibit and Display Consultants, which negotiates low costs for booth setup and the like.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're completely new to all of this but don't want to hire a consultant right away, ask some of your more experienced designer friends for some womens clothing trade show information. They will most likely be willing to share the ins and outs of exhibiting at a show.