New York, NY, United States — July 1, 2026 — Building on an 18% surge in attendance for its 2024 New York edition, the Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS is set to open its doors on July 7, 2026, in New York, NY. This premier marketplace in the United States for high-performance functional fabrics, finishes, trims, and accessories continues its growth trajectory since its 2018 launch, expanding to include editions in Portland and a new Winter Edition in Orlando starting in 2026. The fair has consistently doubled in size over this period.
Market Momentum and Expansion
The New York edition specifically attracts a broad audience from fashion, designer, and specialty markets, including swimwear. The 2023 New York event featured over 140 exhibitors and attracted 2,300 industry professionals. The 2024 edition further solidified its success, shattering previous attendance records with an 18% increase in visitors, drawing attendees from companies such as Calvin Klein, HOKA, L.L. Bean, and Under Armour. The Portland Fall 2025 event also reported a 4% increase in attendance and a 10% expansion in exhibitor numbers, showcasing over 350 sustainably certified suppliers.
Focus on Performance and Sustainability
The Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS is organized by Reed Exhibitions (RX Global) in partnership with PERFORMANCE DAYS®, produced by Design & Development GmbH Textile Consult. Core exhibit sectors include High-Performance Functional Fabrics & Materials, showcasing advanced textiles, finishes, trims, and accessories like yarns, tapes, prints, buttons, and zippers. Technologies highlighted will cover cooling, UV protection, ultralight constructions, durable and weather-resistant fabrics, insulation, breathable, moisture-managing, waterproof, and windproof materials for segments such as sportswear, outdoor activewear, and swimwear.
A strong commitment to sustainability defines the event, with all exhibits presented in a minimal-waste format using biodegradable, recycled, and reusable materials. The Sustainable Textile Innovations sector features eco-certified and ethically sourced fabrics. Exhibitors are vetted to meet social and environmental certifications like Bluesign, and since 2019, exhibitors are considered only if at least 50% of their material comes from a recycled source, alongside meeting labor and workplace condition standards. This focus includes circular economy principles and textile-to-textile (T2T) recycling.
Strategic Insights and Networking
The event targets a specialized B2B audience, including apparel CEOs, designers, product development executives, sourcing and material managers, purchasing agents, and merchandisers. Key highlights include Expert Talks led by industry leaders covering seasonal trends, technical aspects, and sustainability practices. The Trend Forum & PERFORMANCE FORUM will display the top 100 products selected by a jury of sourcing experts. Attendees can also participate in the Day 0 Sustainability Workshop, explore the Innovation Zone for cutting-edge textile advancements, and observe real-time demonstrations at the Design Lab (LIVE). An annual Focus Topic, such as "Water – Our Responsibility," is integrated into the program, aligning with the organizer's dedication to producing a zero-waste exhibition.
For brand managers, buyers, and retail strategists seeking to source innovative materials and gain market intelligence, further details and registration information are available at https://www.functionalfabricfair.com/new-york/en-us.html.