Moda boosts upcoming show with strong line-up, new Body/Active area

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Jun 30, 2017

Moda’s upcoming August show will launch the new Body/Active concept, host an engaging seminar programme in conjunction with BIRA’s Fashion Association of Britain and introduce a strong line-up of new and returning labels, revealed organisers on Friday.

For SS18, Moda’s new Body/Active concept will give fashion’s fastest-growing sector a prominent position within the exhibition. Centred on an interactive wellness area, Body/Active will showcase athleisure and performance active wear with live demonstrations and trend advice.

“There are now so few boundaries between the intimate, active and everyday wardrobe, and we’re going to be reflecting that with a brand new area at Moda for August,” says Moda’s Penny Robinson, who will be heading up the Moda Body/Active area. “Activewear has been one of the biggest stories in fashion for the last two years and is already part of the Moda offer, but going forward we want to create a concept where lingerie, bodywear, swimwear and activewear can all be seen in the broader context of fashion and lifestyle.”

Several global leaders will be showing at Moda for the first time this August, including Surfwear, snow and lifestyle specialist O’Neill, heritage tennis shoe label K-Swiss, Spanish footwear label Unisa and sustainable fashion label Tom Cridland.

Moda Noir, the event’s destination for special occasion buying, will return with an easy-to-navigate layout which sees millinery labels showcased alongside complementary eveningwear brands, giving buyers an unrivalled opportunity to buy cohesively across sectors. Brands and designers presenting at Moda Noir will include Sonia Pena, Gabriella Sanchez, Luis Civit, Vixen by Vivien Sheriff, Snoxell-Gwyther Designer Headwear and newcomer Simply Devine.

Meanwhile, a comprehensive seminar programme will engage visitors with structured and themed content across the three day exhibition. Sunday’s seminars will focus solely on fashion retail and trends, while Monday’s programme is centred around e-commerce and multi-channel retail.

Tuesday’s programme meanwhile will be hosted in partnership with industry body the British Independent Retailers’ Association (bira) and its specialist organisation, the Fashion Association of Britain.

“We are delighted to be working with Moda to inspire fashion retailers and remind them that they don’t have to do it alone. FAB members benefit from valuable support and our collective strength, which helps them grow their business and stand out in their community,” says Julie Holden, national membership manager for Bira.

The agenda of activities and line-up of brands are designed to attract more than 10,000 visitors and confirm Moda’s position as the UK’s largest trade fashion event. The upcoming show will take place on 6-8 August at the NEC in Birmingham.