Do you know how the workers in your factory are treated?  For example are they allowed to join other workers in a trade union?  

Forming or joining a trade union to protect the interest of themselves and colleagues is a fundamental global human right as set out by the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.  It's something I am passionate about and in Fashion Entrepreneurs Academy (my group coaching programme) I only advocate manufacturers that uphold their workers rights and treat them fairly.

The trade unions are empowered to negotiate with employers in “collective bargaining”….basically this just means that the union negotiate with employers (collectively) on behalf of the workers for things like salaries, equalities, human rights, fairness, responsibilities, working hours, working conditions, sustainability etc. to arrive at a collective agreement that will form the basis of the employment relationship. 

Collective bargaining involves a specific process of joint de...

If you read last weeks blog you’ll know how to get the most out of attending a large fabric trade fair…..You might already have attended last weeks London Textile Fair.

The next event on the calendar is Premier Vision New York which is on 20th and 21st July and Premier Vision Paris   21st to 23rd September.

PV New York,  held at Centre 415, 5th Avenue (bet 37 & 38th Streets), will have 200 exhibitors and highlight a new emphasis on sustainability highlighting responsible industry measures.

In addition to the huge selection of  fabric suppliers and agents they also have a new Smart creation area based on a global eco-responsible approach which is based on:

• Social and ethical responsibility
• Environmental performance
• Traceability
• Finishing & Dyeing processes
• Recycling technologies
• Organic content
• Alternative materials

Most fabric fairs are not only the best place to source fabrics at wholesale price they are also a good place to discover the seasons major trends...

So, it’s that time of year again……Time to design your next collection…..and find some fantabulous fabrics that will inspire sell-out pieces and get your Instagram followers all in a tiz!!!

So, where do you start looking for fabrics?    If you are still over-paying retail stores its time to stop that and take your business seriously. 🧵

You could use dead stock fabric or start some up-cycling etc, but if your brand really needs metreage you should start attending the professional trade events.   These will be taking place worldwide over the next few months showing fabrics & trends for A/W ‘22 and the London Textile Fair starts in just a few days!

Fabric fairs are opening live for the first time since the pandemic and the London Textile Fair starts on Wednesday 13th July.   Premiere Vision New York is 20th & 21st July and Premiere Vision Paris is 21st & 23rd September live or 20th to 24th September on-line.

The fabric fairs are not only the best place to source your fabric...