IFCO February 2026 Highlights Istanbul’s Role in Global Fashion Trade

IFCO – Istanbul Fashion Connection February 2026 brought together approximately 450 exhibitors across six halls and welcomed 29,746 professional visitors from 134 countries. Of the total attendance, 38.2% were international visitors and 61.8% domestic. Visitor origins were led by the Middle East (39.4%), followed by Europe (27.4%), Asia (18.9%), and North Africa (11.1%), with 3.2% coming from North America, Africa, South America, and Oceania.

The exhibition covered all major apparel segments, including womenswear, menswear, kidswear, occasionwear, lingerie, denim, accessories, and homewear, with a clearly defined B2B and order-oriented profile. Trade visitors arrived from markets such as Algeria, France, Germany, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, the UK, the USA, and the United Arab Emirates.

Despite global economic and geopolitical challenges, Türkiye remained the world’s seventh-largest apparel exporter and the EU’s third-largest supplier. In 2025, the country’s apparel and textile exports reached USD 26.2 billion, with apparel accounting for USD 16.8 billion and representing the fourth-largest export sector. About 60.6% of apparel exports were directed to Europe.

Commenting on the sector’s position, Mustafa Gültepe, President of TİM and Chairman of the Board of Directors of İHKİB, said:
“IFCO demonstrates that Türkiye’s apparel industry is ready for the future— resilient, design-driven, and strategically positioned to deliver sustainable value to global markets, even in challenging times.”

Womenswear formed the backbone of IFCO’s main halls and the Brands Area, alongside a strong menswear presence. Fashionist, dedicated to eveningwear and occasionwear, reflected Türkiye’s performance in design-driven, high-value categories. IFCO Kids highlighted children’s and babywear collections focused on functionality, sustainability, and quality. Linexpo made its debut as a sourcing platform for lingerie, hosiery, swimwear, seamless technologies, loungewear, and accessories.

Mustafa Paşahan, President of IFCO and Vice Chairman of İHKİB, stated:
“The global apparel industry is undergoing a period of transformation shaped by evolving market dynamics and changing demand patterns. Within this landscape, the Turkish apparel industry stands out with its strong design capabilities and solid production infrastructure. Well positioned to respond to these dynamics, the industry continues to move forward with confidence and adaptability. IFCO reflects this strength by bringing together creativity, production expertise, and international business—demonstrating that the Turkish apparel industry is not only adapting to current conditions, but actively shaping its future.”

Design-focused platforms such as The Core Istanbul presented 22 Turkish designers, including Özlem Süer, Mehtap Elaidi, Emre Erdemoğlu, and Ceren Ocak. An AI-supported installation showcased collections in digitally generated ice and snow environments.

The Brands Area featured companies such as İpekyol, Herr Widma, Jakamen, Jimmy Key, Kiğılı, NCS, Naramaxx, Panço, Ruba, and Twist. Fashionist included brands such as Carmen, Serabella, Maxra Govana, Lacrima, and Doridorca. IFCO Kids hosted participants including Incity, Katamino, Loco Loco Kids, and Escabel Kids. Linexpo exhibitors included Monomisse, Elsima, Anıl, and Artış Collection.

International buyers attending IFCO represented retailers, department stores, online platforms, and distributors from Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Participating buyers included Perry Ellis Europe, Paul Smith, Williams Group, Attrallah Group (SSENSE), Moss Bross Group, Tara Jarmon, Maison Labiche, MGM Hosiery LLC, Women’s Clothing Wholesale (Heydari), Decolleté Label LLC, Strait Down Enterprise, WAFI, Namshi, Rubaiyat, Parasuco Jeans, Profade Apparel, MSCH Copenhagen, Nakdcom One World, and Scalpers Fashion.

A structured B2B meeting program supported targeted matchmaking across product categories. Exhibitors reported follow-up meetings, sample requests, and order negotiations.

The supporting program, developed with Istanbul Fashion Academy (IMA), addressed Spring/Summer 2027/28 trends, sustainability, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence. The E2B Program (Experts to Business) focused on export financing, incentive mechanisms, B2B marketing, artificial intelligence, and e-commerce.

The IMA Trend Area presented RESONATE (AW 27–28), highlighting balanced color concepts, tactile materials, and functional design approaches. IFCO Fashion Talks featured moderated discussions led by Benedetta Rossi Albini. Fashion Shows presented collections from brands including Alissa, Carmen, De White’s, Maxra Govanna, and Puane.

The next editions are scheduled as follows:
IFCO – Istanbul Fashion Connection: August 19–21, 2026
Texhibition Istanbul: March 4–6, 2026, and September 9–11, 2026