Pret a Porter in Paris

The 100 th edition of the French fashion trade show Pret a Porter Paris opened its doors to the public last Friday. The heatwave that descended on the city did not stop visitors from attending the show. Although the crowds that swarmed the previous show had not yet arrived in equal measure, many participants were optimistic. After all, most buyers only start writing up orders on the third and fourth day and there was enough interest. The trade show's organisation expected 43.000 visitors to this season's edition.

As with previous editions, the Pret a Porter was again held in the exposition halls at the Porte de Versailles. The first impression upon entering the show was one of overpowering. With over 1,500 participants spread out over three floors, the diversity of brands - which encompassed everything from eveningwear, accessories, street wear, casual wear, jeanswear and separates - was overwhelming.

Although the majority of participants were French, a significant amount of foreign brands was also represented. For years the Pret a Porter has devoted a separate section called the Pavillons du Monde to brands from the Far East , maar there were also many Italian, British and German brands, as well as Latin and North American labels. The strength of this trade show is its international character and the diversity of products within the middle and high segments. "This is our second time at the Pret a Porter," said Coen Looijen, managing director of Dutch fashion lable Marianne Vanderwilt. "I think it's a enjoyable, high quality trade show. The brands that participate are strong and the buyers come from all over the world. It's that international aspect that makes this such a good trade show."

Besides the many brands, which were split into different sections, the trade show also offered regular fashion shows, a boutique performante where retailers could learn of new ways to attract and keep clients, a logistics section and a trend forum. The latter attracted many journalists who hungrily noted down the hottest trends for spring 2006. Further to this, the organisation worked together with the Korean Ministry of Culture and Tourism to produce an exhibition of the traditional hanbok dress, which was reinterpreted by western designers. In short, there was something for everyone.