VISIT – Première Vision – Paris

On September 14th 2016, the ‘Fashion Systems and Global Perspectives’ class went to the textile fair Première Vision. In preparation to this visit, the class read How Textiles Drive Fashion by Rebecca May Johnson and The Role of Trade Fairs in the Global Fashion Business by Lise Skov. These two texts gave an accurate assessment and eye-opening view of trade fairs, the roles of exhibitors, participants, and buyers. Additionally, these articles highlight the expectations from the point of view of the designers and exhibitors. Skov asserts that exhibitors have to be hospitable and give their potential clients a great level of customer service. Their goals are surrounded around making connections with the buyers, thus preventing a loss of business to their competitors. Johnson’s article brings the voice of the designers to the forefront. She references a designer making financial decisions based on fabric quantities for samples and production, instead of selecting fabrics freely from a creative standpoint. Moreover, Skov and Johnson were able to showcase the reality of the fashion business for the backstage workforce

As students peering into the lens of the fashion industry, we assumed the role of buyers at the 2016 Première Vision trade fair in Paris. We were in a unique position, because we were not inhibited or limited in the questions we asked. Our main objectives were to obtain information about two xhibitors, their company’s history, target audiences, and production capabilities. We observed how companies operated while attempting to make a potential sale. PV allowed us to have a greater appreciation and insight for how the products are disseminated, fabrics are selected, and designers are inspired. Although our experiences varied from interviewing various exhibitors, some more successful than others, it inevitably prepared us for our roles as future fashion industry professionals.