CIFF, Denmark’s renowned fashion fair, is gearing up for its 63rd edition at the Bella Center in Copenhagen from August 7 to 9. Spanning a sprawling 34,000-square-meter venue—an increase of 25% from its previous edition—the fair will showcase approximately 1,200 international brands. Attendees can expect a dynamic event featuring dedicated areas for interactive experiences, installations, talks, and fashion shows.
A highlight of this edition is the introduction of the “Neudeutsch” area, focusing on innovative German brands across fashion, jewelry, and design. This addition marks the third edition since CIFF acquired the Revolver show last year.
Among the notable participants are industry leaders such as G-Star, Bestseller, Molebo, New Amsterdam, and Saucony, alongside emerging brands like Impossible Objects and Denim Project.
In conjunction with Copenhagen Fashion Week, which runs concurrently from August 5 to 9, CIFF aims to strengthen the city’s position as a fashion hub. To delve deeper into CIFF’s strategy and future plans, FashionNetwork.com spoke with Sofie Dolva, the fair’s director:
FashionNetwork.com: Can you elaborate on CIFF’s collaboration with Copenhagen Fashion Week? What are the goals for this partnership?
Sofie Dolva: Our collaboration with Copenhagen Fashion Week is pivotal in positioning Copenhagen as a leading fashion capital. This season marks the first time CIFF is included in the official schedule of Copenhagen Fashion Week. We support CPHFW by sharing schedules with our buyers and press contacts and sponsoring venue spaces for participating brands. Our vision is aligned under ‘One Copenhagen,’ aiming to create an efficient environment for the international fashion industry to thrive.
FashionNetwork.com: What is CIFF’s current strategy for internationalization?
Sofie Dolva: We’ve evolved from a bi-annual platform to a strategic partner supporting brands throughout the year. Our partnerships span international events like Milano Fashion Week with CNMI, Pitti Uomo in Florence, and CFDA in New York, focusing on providing robust support to brands and buyers.
FashionNetwork.com: How do partnerships with international events benefit CIFF?
Sofie Dolva: Partnerships with events like Pitti and CFDA have garnered positive feedback, enhancing our industry ecosystem. Looking ahead, we aim to expand these partnerships and explore new markets to further support our stakeholders.
FashionNetwork.com: What can you tell us about the profile of buyers attending CIFF this season?
Sofie Dolva: This season, our buyer profile is diverse, reflecting markets crucial to our participating brands. We’re seeing significant representation from Germany, Asia, the UK, US, Nordics, and Southern Europe.
FashionNetwork.com: What innovations can attendees expect at CIFF this edition?
Sofie Dolva: CIFF continues to innovate with the CIFF City concept, featuring the new ‘Neudeutsch Area’ curated by Julian Daynov, a sporty Foyer with G-Star, and unique offerings like a basketball field by Les Deux. Our expanded Bestseller City spans 4,000 square meters, complementing our beauty offerings integrated across halls.
FashionNetwork.com: How would you describe the current state of the fashion trade fair industry?
Sofie Dolva: The trade fair industry is evolving amidst changing market dynamics and travel budgets. At CIFF, our focus extends beyond bi-annual showcases to comprehensive support for brands. We aim to equip brands with the tools and platforms necessary for sustained growth and success in the industry.
CIFF’s 63rd edition promises to be a vibrant convergence of international fashion, innovation, and business, setting the stage for the future of the industry.
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