Footwear Eventos en United Kingdom
Wear Africa Expo & Exhibition
Wear Africa Expo & Exhibition: A Global Celebration of African Creativity in the Heart of London
Every year, a vibrant wave of culture, creativity, and craftsmanship washes over London, drawing in artists, designers, buyers, and lovers of fashion from every corner of the globe. That wave is called the Wear Africa Expo & Exhibition (WAEX) a world-class event that honors the spirit, talent, and heritage of African fashion, textiles, and design. Held at the renowned Business Design Center in the United Kingdom's capital, WAEX has grown into a powerful platform for African artisans and brands to take center stage before a global audience.
But this event is more than a trade fair. It is a living, breathing expression of African identity, packed with color, rhythm, craftsmanship, and pride. With a carefully curated mix of traditional and contemporary styles, the expo provides an opportunity for attendees not only to witness beauty but to experience culture, community, and commerce in action.
A Global Stage for "Made in Africa"
WAEX is organized by the Globe Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a dynamic institution with a clear mission: to position “Made in Africa” as a mark of innovation, elegance, and excellence. By bringing the best of African fashion and lifestyle products to one of the world’s fashion capitals, the event amplifies the visibility and prestige of African designers and manufacturers.
At its core, the exhibition is a platform where African creativity meets international opportunity. From up-and-coming designers to established fashion houses, every exhibitor benefits from access to a diverse and engaged audience that includes:
International buyers and retail agents
Fashion editors and influencers
Industry professionals and manufacturers
Entrepreneurs, investors, and policy makers
Everyday consumers who appreciate quality and authenticity
In a global marketplace increasingly focused on sustainability, culture, and craftsmanship, WAEX gives African artisans a valuable spotlight they so richly deserve.
Rich in Diversity: Products and Exhibits That Tell a Story
Walking through the expo is like journeying through Africa itself each booth, textile, and design tells a story rooted in heritage, yet infused with modern flair. From West African Adire and Kente fabrics to handcrafted leather bags, shoes, and accessories, the diversity of the African continent is on full display.
Key Categories Showcased at WAEX:
Traditional Textiles: Adire, Kente, Aso Ebi, Tie & Dye, Asoke
Leather Goods: Bags, sandals, wallets, and belts crafted from locally sourced materials
Jewelry & Accessories: Beaded creations, gold and bronze works, contemporary and tribal designs
Fashion Collections: Ready-to-wear, couture, and streetwear from across the continent
Food & Beverage: Organic teas, spices, snacks, and gourmet products
Arts & Crafts: Paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and home décor
Each product is more than an item it is a statement, a cultural artifact, and a potential export opportunity.
Special Zones and Signature Events
To further enrich the experience, the Wear Africa Expo & Exhibition includes dedicated thematic zones and signature events that celebrate different aspects of African innovation and cultural contribution.
Highlighted Areas Include:
World Textile and Garment Expo – An immersive space for fabric innovation and traditional weaving techniques.
Global Fashion Week & Awards – A runway experience that showcases top African designers and honors excellence in design.
World Leather & Footwear Showcase – A focused display on leatherworking traditions, shoes, and sustainable tanning techniques.
World Shoe Expo – Bringing Africa’s footwear industry into the global spotlight.
These curated experiences offer visitors a deep dive into the complexity and excellence of African production, from raw material sourcing to high-end retail packaging.
Learning, Networking, and Expanding Horizons
Beyond the exhibits, WAEX offers a rich lineup of educational and business development activities. These are particularly beneficial for emerging designers, young entrepreneurs, and SMEs seeking to navigate the complex landscape of international fashion and trade.
Activities That Add Real Value:
Fashion Masterclasses with top designers and stylists
Business Forums on global market access, funding, and supply chains
Networking Sessions connecting designers with buyers and investors
Talks on Sustainability and ethical production practices
The emphasis on sustainable fashion is especially noteworthy. WAEX encourages eco-conscious design by showcasing recycled materials, organic fabrics, and fair-trade certified goods, further aligning African production with global environmental standards.
A Culturally Immersive Venue: The Business Design Center in London
The Business Design Center, centrally located in the stylish borough of Islington, provides an ideal setting for this global celebration of African excellence. Its open layout, elegant architecture, and modern amenities make it both accessible and inspiring a fitting home for an event that blends tradition with innovation.
From the vibrant sounds of Afrobeat echoing through the halls to the dynamic colors of garments adorning mannequins and models, the entire venue transforms into a multisensory journey through Africa.
Who Should Attend WAEX?
While anyone with an appreciation for fashion and culture will enjoy the event, WAEX is particularly valuable for professionals and businesses looking to engage with African markets or collaborate with African designers.
You Should Attend If You Are:
A fashion buyer or retailer seeking unique collections
A textile or garment manufacturer looking to expand your sourcing
A fashion student or designer looking for inspiration and mentorship
A government official involved in trade and cultural exchange
An investor scouting for innovation and growth markets
In addition, diaspora communities living in the UK and Europe often find WAEX to be a joyful and affirming experience a chance to reconnect with home through fabric, food, and fashion.
More Than an Event A Movement
The Wear Africa Expo & Exhibition is not just a commercial trade show it's a cultural statement, a strategic platform, and an emotional journey. It serves as a reminder that Africa is not only the cradle of civilization but also a cradle of creativity, resilience, and enterprise.
As global consumers demand more authenticity, sustainability, and diversity in the products they purchase, African fashion and design are poised for global relevance like never before. WAEX is helping make that happen one stitch, one textile, and one connection at a time.
Whether you’re attending to explore, to invest, or simply to celebrate, the Wear Africa Expo & Exhibition will leave you not just impressed, but inspired.
Liverpool Fashion Week
Liverpool Fashion Week: Where Global Talent Meets the Runway
Liverpool Fashion Week is a landmark event that shines a spotlight on creativity, innovation, and local talent in the heart of this vibrant city. As one of the most anticipated fashion events in the UK, it serves as a crucial platform for designers, models, and industry professionals to showcase the latest trends and visionary ideas. This dynamic week-long celebration offers something for everyone — from exclusive runway shows and designer showcases to pop-up boutiques and engaging industry networking sessions. Liverpool Fashion Week is not just about fashion; it’s about community, culture, and the future of style.
Attracting designers from across the globe, the event highlights the city’s position as a hub for fresh, bold fashion statements. Emerging designers are given the chance to debut their collections, while established names use the event to reaffirm their influence in the industry. The inclusive atmosphere encourages dialogue between creators, buyers, and fashion enthusiasts alike, making it an invaluable occasion for exchanging ideas and fostering new collaborations.
Showcasing Emerging Designers and Iconic Styles During Liverpool Fashion Week
One of the defining features of Liverpool Fashion Week is its commitment to supporting emerging talent alongside celebrated designers. This dual focus creates a rich tapestry of styles, ranging from cutting-edge streetwear to elegant haute couture. Throughout the event, attendees can expect to see:
Runway shows featuring collections that reflect current and future fashion trends.
Designer showcases offering intimate views into the creative processes and inspirations behind the collections.
Pop-up boutiques where visitors can shop exclusive pieces and interact directly with designers.
Industry networking events that facilitate meaningful connections between buyers, suppliers, and creatives.
The diversity of styles and formats ensures that Liverpool Fashion Week remains fresh and relevant year after year. Designers are encouraged to experiment, pushing boundaries and exploring sustainable fashion practices, new materials, and innovative designs.
The Role of Liverpool Fashion Week in Shaping Local and Global Fashion Trends
Liverpool Fashion Week plays a pivotal role in influencing fashion not only locally but also on a wider scale. The event attracts buyers, media, and influencers who help amplify the impact of the showcased collections. Local designers gain international exposure, while global brands benefit from the creative energy and unique perspectives Liverpool offers.
In recent years, Liverpool Fashion Week has placed a special emphasis on sustainability and ethical fashion. Many participants focus on eco-friendly materials, transparent production processes, and socially responsible business models. This focus aligns with a growing global movement to make fashion more sustainable and inclusive.
Key Highlights of Liverpool Fashion Week’s Program
The program of Liverpool Fashion Week is thoughtfully curated to engage a broad audience. Key highlights include:
Runway Shows: High-energy presentations of new collections, often accompanied by music and innovative staging.
Designer Showcases: Smaller, more personal settings where designers present their work and discuss their vision.
Pop-up Shops: Temporary retail spaces that allow visitors to purchase unique, limited-edition pieces.
Networking Events: Opportunities for professionals to connect, discuss industry trends, and explore potential partnerships.
Workshops and Panels: Educational sessions covering topics such as fashion marketing, sustainable design, and digital innovation.
This blend of activities offers a comprehensive experience that supports career growth and inspires creativity.
Why Liverpool Fashion Week Is a Must-Attend for Industry Professionals and Enthusiasts
Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a fashion student, or simply someone passionate about style, Liverpool Fashion Week offers unique opportunities:
Discover New Talent: The event is a fertile ground for finding fresh designers whose work may become the next big thing.
Stay Ahead of Trends: Runway shows and presentations provide insights into upcoming styles and market directions.
Expand Your Network: From buyers to influencers, the event gathers key industry figures under one roof.
Engage with the Fashion Community: The inclusive atmosphere encourages interaction and learning from peers.
Liverpool Fashion Week acts as a catalyst for creativity, business, and cultural exchange, making it indispensable in the fashion calendar.
Liverpool as a Dynamic Fashion Hub
The city of Liverpool itself contributes significantly to the event’s character. Known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and youthful energy, Liverpool provides an inspiring backdrop for fashion innovation. The collaboration between local authorities, creative institutions, and the fashion industry has helped establish Liverpool as a center of style and design excellence.
Visitors to Liverpool Fashion Week often take the opportunity to explore the city’s unique architecture, music history, and lively neighborhoods, creating a memorable cultural experience alongside the fashion.
Summary: What Makes Liverpool Fashion Week Stand Out?
International platform for both emerging and established designers.
A comprehensive program that blends runway shows, showcases, shopping, and education.
Strong focus on innovation, creativity, and sustainable fashion.
Opportunities for professional growth and networking.
A celebration of local culture and global fashion trends.
Liverpool Fashion Week is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant community and a powerful engine driving the future of fashion. Whether you’re a designer seeking exposure or a fashion lover eager to witness the next wave of style, Liverpool Fashion Week offers an unmatched experience.
MODA
MODA x Pure at the NEC Birmingham: Where Fashion Retail Meets Innovation
Few fashion trade events in the UK can rival the scale, energy, and influence of MODA x Pure, held annually at the NEC in Birmingham. This highly anticipated trade fair has become one of the key touchpoints for fashion professionals seeking the latest womenswear, footwear, accessories, jewellery, and trend insight under one roof. Organized by Hyve Group Plc, the event combines MODA’s retail fashion expertise with the rich heritage of Spring Fair, a partnership that brings over 100 years of combined industry experience to one powerful platform.
As the fashion landscape shifts in response to changing consumer habits, sustainability concerns, and digital innovation, MODA x Pure rises to meet the moment—offering attendees not just products, but inspiration, education, and meaningful connections.
Four Key Sectors Under One Roof
One of the defining strengths of MODA x Pure is its comprehensive sector coverage, catering to a wide spectrum of retailers, buyers, and trendsetters. The show is segmented into four core areas, each curated to deliver high-value opportunities and trend-forward collections.
MODA x Pure features:
Womenswear: From heritage brands to fresh new labels, this area showcases a range of styles across seasons and demographics
Footwear and Clothing: A broad offering from everyday wear to premium collections, including trend-setting and sustainable options
Fashion Accessories: Think statement pieces, seasonal essentials, and elevated staples
Jewellery & Watch Collections: Classic and contemporary, with a focus on craftsmanship, story-driven design, and market potential
This division allows attendees to navigate the event more efficiently, finding exactly what aligns with their retail goals.
Collaboration with Spring Fair: A Legacy of Retail Excellence
The collaboration between MODA and Spring Fair, the UK’s leading wholesale marketplace for home and gift, has elevated MODA x Pure to new levels of relevance and reach. Spring Fair’s 75-year legacy in retail blends seamlessly with MODA’s 30 years of fashion expertise, creating an event that is both deeply rooted in tradition and forward-looking in vision.
Attendees benefit from:
Shared access to both fashion and lifestyle product sectors
A wider network of retailers and suppliers
Enhanced networking and matchmaking opportunities
Educational sessions tailored to the evolving retail landscape
Together, they form the UK’s most comprehensive B2B retail event, enabling attendees to source collections across multiple categories while building long-term partnerships.
Fashion Inspiration Live: The Moda Catwalk Experience
At the heart of MODA x Pure is the Moda Catwalk, a curated runway event that brings the season’s most influential trends to life. It’s more than just fashion theatre—it’s a trend forecasting and buying tool that helps retailers visualize how collections will perform in-store.
The catwalk experience features:
Live styling sessions to translate runway looks into retail-ready edits
Appearances from iconic designers like Dame Zandra Rhodes and Paul Wright, who bring industry insights and creative vision
Thematic showcases covering occasionwear, casual trends, footwear highlights, and more
A mix of emerging and established brands to inspire different market levels
It’s here where retailers often spot hidden gems, rethink seasonal buys, and discover new brand partnerships.
Not Just Products — A Hub for Networking and Insight
While product sourcing is central, MODA x Pure is also a vibrant networking ecosystem. The show is designed to foster dialogue and create new opportunities through structured and informal networking areas, lounges, and meeting points.
What makes the MODA x Pure experience unique?
B2B-focused networking zones for buyers and suppliers
Industry talks and panels on retail tech, sustainability, and future forecasting
Opportunities for independent and boutique retailers to discover niche offerings
Live demonstrations of new technologies and sustainable practices
An atmosphere of collaboration, not just competition
These elements transform MODA x Pure into a retail intelligence hub, where you leave not only with products but also with practical knowledge and valuable contacts.
A UK Event with Global Influence
Though firmly based in Birmingham, MODA x Pure is international in scope. With exhibitors and buyers from across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and beyond, the event reflects the global nature of modern fashion retail. This international appeal helps UK retailers broaden their sourcing and helps international brands enter the competitive British market.
Hyve Group’s global network ensures that the fair continues to attract high-calibre participants, with the event ranking prominently within the Apparel & Clothing and Beauty & Fashion sectors, holding a strong 12th place nationally among all fashion events.
Who Should Attend MODA x Pure?
If your business touches any part of the fashion retail value chain, MODA x Pure offers essential value. The event is open to industry professionals only, ensuring focused discussions and a shared understanding of market needs.
Ideal attendees include:
Independent boutique owners
Department store buyers
Footwear and clothing retailers
Jewellery and watch retailers
Online store buyers and eCommerce professionals
Fashion trend analysts and consultants
Brand representatives and agency scouts
Whether you're restocking shelves, scouting for next season’s looks, or simply staying up to date with evolving retail trends, MODA x Pure is a vital part of your calendar.
A Springboard for Future-Focused Fashion Retail
In a time of rapid change, MODA x Pure stands out as a stable and strategic event for the UK and European fashion retail industries. With its blend of curated collections, expert-led content, and live fashion experiences, it’s not just a tradeshow—it’s a visionary retail platform.
The NEC in Birmingham offers an ideal location, easily accessible and equipped with the infrastructure needed to support large-scale fashion events. Add in the trusted leadership of Hyve Group Plc, and it’s clear why MODA x Pure continues to be a defining event in the industry.
Why MODA x Pure Deserves Your Attention
From the moment you enter the halls of the NEC, it’s clear that MODA x Pure is not just about seeing what’s new—it’s about being part of what’s next. In a competitive retail environment where customer expectations are high and margins are tight, attending this tradeshow can mean the difference between reacting to trends and setting them.
Whether you’re an established fashion business or an emerging brand, MODA x Pure offers the insight, access, and inspiration to take your next step with confidence.
