June 10, 2026 New: Cellulose Forum & Garment Tech Forum

Two new dedicated forums expand the sourcing landscape at Performance Days this October: the Cellulose Forum and the Garment Tech Forum.

The new Cellulose Forum reflects a development that became particularly visible during the latest Performance Days jury meeting: cellulosic and natural fibers are moving further into the performance sector. The jury was positively surprised by both the number and quality of submissions. Cotton, lyocell, Modal, hemp and other plant-based fibers are appearing in increasingly sophisticated constructions and blends, moving beyond traditional lifestyle and next-to-skin applications.

Particularly striking was the number of functional cellulosic shell constructions, an area traditionally dominated by synthetic fibers. At the same time, developments across baselayers and midlayers demonstrated how properties such as moisture management, thermoregulation, breathability and skin comfort are opening up new applications.

Jury sees room for more hemp and mono-material design

The jury also identified clear opportunities for further development. More hemp and more mono-material concepts would be welcome in future seasons, while the diversity of current blends demonstrates that performance is not necessarily about replacing one fiber with another. Instead, the material toolbox is becoming broader, allowing designers to select and combine fibers according to their specific properties and end use.

Garment Tech Forum shifts focus to construction

The new Garment Tech Forum extends this thinking from material to construction. Focusing on seams, bonding technologies and other garment-making solutions, it highlights how functionality is shaped not only by the fabric itself, but also by the way a garment is engineered.

Together, the two new forums offer a broader perspective on performance development – from fiber and fabric to construction and finished garment.

Lead image: Raddis Cotton