Junior's essential calendar of all the best children fashion trade fairs to attend this season
Moschino stand at January's Pitti Bimbo
It's that busy time of year again when designers and fashion journalists gather together to showcase the new Spring/Sumer 2011 collections. Here is Junior's essential guide to the best trade fairs:
Fimi Valencia 18–20 June
Spain's largest childrenswear fair is based in the city of Valencia and boasts a large selection of international brands plus some of Spains best secrets, with over 72 brands showcasing their Spring/Summer 2011 offerings. For more information visit their website www.fimi.es
Bubble London 20–21 June
Bubble is the UK's biggest childrenswear event and this year sees the fair branching out with the arrival of CWF who produce DKNY, Chloe and Burberry. Based in Islignton's Business Design Centre in London and offers a variety of brands from eco to new generation. For more information visit their website www.bubblelondon.com
Pitti Bimbo 24–26 June
The world's biggest and most established childrens fashion event, Pitti Bimbo is located in the beautiful city of Florence. This year, there are 536 brands showcasing, covering Sports, Luxury, New View/Generation labels, Street wear, Contemporary Luxury brands, Mid Markets labels, Eco Brands, Baby and Nursery. Last year saw 6,900 buyers attend,of which 2,500 were from abroad, including Harrods and Selfridges. There is also a diary of daily catwalk shows from brands such as Roberto Cavalli and Calvin Klein Jeans. For more information visit their website www.pittiimagine.com
White Kids 27–29 June
Running for its second season, this Milan-based show is directly after Pitti Bimbo and showcases some of the most contemporary brands in childrenswear. For more information visit www.whiteshow.it
Kleine Fabriek 4–5 July
Holland's biggest luxury childrenswear show has 270 exhibitors and last year hosted 4,890 visitors (and that was despite the January snow!). A great place to spot emerging labels – last season saw the debut of Bang Bang Copenhagen who were snapped up by Little Fashion Gallery. There's also an array of beautiful gifts, toys and furniture. For more information visit their website www.kleinefabriek.nl.
And don't forget Junior will be there, bringing you the latest news, trends and catwalk reports from all the shows. So watch this space!
