The seventh edition of IFCO Istanbul Fashion Connection, held from 5 to 8 February 2025, confirmed its role as one of the most relevant events in the international fashion scene. With 33,788 visitors and 514 exhibitors from 151 countries IFCO established itself as a benchmark for the global fashion industry. The event, hosted in 8 pavilions of the Istanbul Expo Centre, attracted an international audience with a strong presence from the Middle East (32.5%), Asia (25.1%), Europe (23.1%) and North Africa (14.6%).IFCO Istanbul Fashion Connection is divided into four main areas: TheCore Istanbul, which hosts emerging and established designers; IFCO BRANDS, dedicated to Turkey’s leading brands; IFCO Kids, focused on eco-friendly children’s clothing; and the MINDSCAPE area, which explores the marriage of fashion, science and digital innovation.
Turkey: Global Fashion Hub
Turkey remains a key player in the fashion industry, being the sixth largest supplier of clothing in the world and the third in the European Union, with an export share of 3.5 per cent. Mustafa Gültepe, President of TĠM & İHKİB, emphasised how the country is transforming from a manufacturing centre to a nation of internationally recognised fashion brands. With over 3,000 shops in more than 100 countries, the aim is to consolidate Istanbul as a global fashion hub, an achievement supported by events such as IFCO. The theme of the 2025 edition, MINDSCAPE, explored the marriage of science, spirituality and digital innovation. Developed in collaboration with the Fashion Designers’ Association (MTD) and the Istanbul Fashion Academy (IMA), the concept promoted thoughtful and responsible fashion, based on ecological materials and environmentally friendly processes. MINDSCAPE created a bridge between technology and inner well-being, emphasising the importance of personal growth and ecological awareness.
Sustainability and Innovation: Trends of the Future
The METAMORPHOSIS project, co-funded by the EU and the Turkish government through the Competitive Sectors Program 2022, aims to accelerate digital transformation and sustainable production in Turkey’s ready-to-wear and textile sectors. Key stakeholders, including the IHKIB Digital Transformation Centre (DDM), Istanbul Moda Academy (İMA) and EKOTEKS, are leading this initiative with innovative solutions for the sector.One of the central themes of IFCO 2025 was environmental sustainability combined with digital transformation.
One of the brands that definitely stood out for its garments produced according to ethical principles and a sustainable approach is 2be4A, whose motto is ‘redefining style with denim’, has both a futuristic design and a conscious soul. The TheCore Istanbul area, an integral part of the fair, hosted more than 25 established and emerging designers, who presented collections under the banner of innovation and respect for the environment. Designers such as Gökhan Yavas, Tuba Ergin and Kübra Demir for Ryder Act highlighted the importance of IFCO as a platform to create international networks and promote collections made from sustainable materials, such as the handcrafted and ethical linen of Ryder Act’s S/S 26 collection: a collection that explores the balance between minimalist aesthetics and functionality, with a focus on garment durability and traceability of the production chain
Among the other brands, TheCore area hosted: Mirimalist, the first brand in Turkey to integrate 3D printing in clothing and is known for its high quality fabrics and exceptional craftsmanship. It presented essential garments made with low environmental impact production processes; Denim Heads impressed the audience with its denim cloth garments that combine traditional craftsmanship and eco-conscious dyeing techniques, significantly reducing water consumption and the use of chemicals.
The Eyna handbag brand specialising in elegant bags with striking details and embroidery, brought to the fair a collection made of straw and fine fabrics, designs inspired by nature, ethnic tradition and art.
Digital Transformation: The Future of Turkish Fashion
Mustafa Paşahan, Vice President of İHKİB, reiterated the Turkish industry’s commitment to green and digital transformation: ‘Our industry is a pioneer in digital and sustainable transformation. We cooperate with ministries and the EU to develop innovative projects and utilise EU-approved support programmes.
The eighth edition of IFCO, scheduled for 20-22 August 2025, promises to further consolidate Turkey’s role as a global leader in sustainable and digital fashion. With an increasing focus on environmentally friendly materials, innovative processes and cutting-edge technologies, IFCO is confirmed as an essential platform for the future of the fashion industry.
By Dinah de Fina