A model moving along the runway to the latest electronic beat comes to mind when thinking of apparel events, but there's so much more. From socks to mittens, the apparel industry promotes the latest designs and fashion trends at apparel conventions. Retailers gather for clothing events around the world to select the designs that will line their shelves each year in the hope that the public approves.

From footwear to earrings, clothing conventions provide retailers and manufacturers the opportunity to expand clothing lines and promote industry innovations. The hot today, gone tomorrow nature of apparel is a challenge for retailers who need popular fashions to bring in customers. Making the most of your time at apparel conferences leads to better business for retailers and manufacturers. Consider the following when choosing apparel events to attend:

1. Promote new sales to retailers at clothing conferences with polished exhibits.

2. Learn from the industry professionals at apparel conventions.

3. Bring in business with trendy accessories and footwear at apparel conferences.

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

Connect with new retailers at apparel buying events

Getting your product into the hands of retailers means promoting your apparel line at apparel events. Retailers are always looking for additions to lift sales and spark new interest in customers. Finding the right partners to sell your apparel products takes a well-designed presentation and the heavy traffic found at an apparel conference.

I recommend: FAME hosts seasonal apparel buying events for retailers and distributors. Project promotes the best of the best at events around the world with keynote sessions and hundreds of exhibitors.

Follow the latest fashion advice from experts at apparel events

Keynote sessions that present industry experts help retailers follow the latest trends. Knowing what the customer is looking for from season to season keeps the cash registers ringing. Apparel sales sessions give advice that maximizes the average purchase in your store.

I recommend: The MAGIC Marketplace hosts global events with keynote sessions and apparel seminars for retailers, manufacturers and designers. The World Shoe Association (WSA) offers seminars and knowledge sessions to retailers and manufacturers to increase sales and promote growth in the industry.

Sell more with accessories and shoes found at accessory apparel events

Apparel events that focus on accessories and shoes help promote higher sales volume by completing the customer's needs in one stop. Providing the end-to-end solution with products found at wardrobe conventions makes sense for retailers and makes the most of tight retail space.

I recommend: The Atlanta Shoe Market (TASM) is a seasonal apparel conference highlighting trends in the world of footwear. Denver Merchandise Mart holds five annual apparel events with a dedicated accessories area.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Apparel events held in large venues with hundreds of exhibits and sessions can quickly tire you out. Review the list of exhibits before attending to ensure you visit the booths most important to your business.