Nothing but positive sounds

The grand RE-SET of Modefabriek, held at a new location for the first time in 21 years this winter edition, was a sparkling success. Blessed with two days of winter sun and blue skies, the large glass expo building in Vijfhuizen truly shone. Compliments poured in about the new, open, and dynamic design of Modefabriek, making the rich selection of beautiful womenswear brands feel like a grand celebration. Newness brings energy, and that energy hasn’t been this positive in a long time. And coincidence or not, according to trend experts Lidewij Edelkoort and Jan Agelink, positivity is the big trend for the coming winter and all of 2026. Not because it falls from the sky like ripe fruit, but because we consciously choose it. Positivity as activism. Yes we can!

Nothing but positive sounds 

Modefabriek is always in dialogue with the industry because creating such a powerful and inspiring fashion platform for the North European market is something we do together. The new setup of Modefabriek has also shaken up long-time exhibitors. "We, as participants, also need to roll up our sleeves and embrace a positive mindset. The Netherlands plays a significant role in fashion, and we need to reflect that ourselves," says PENN&INK N.Y founder Mark de Lorme, who encountered "nothing but positive people" at his stand. "I sense a bit of a rebellious energy, as if everyone is daring a little more. From the moment you enter, Modefabriek already has an international vibe, and at the same time, the fair has a very intimate atmosphere." 

The new modular and open stands also required something from the exhibitors, who had to rethink their presentations – and they did so successfully. "I hear nothing but compliments from clients and colleagues. Brands can showcase their identity even better and receive very targeted attention," says Sanne Schiet-Wegdam  from New Market, who participated with the brands MODSTRÖM and FRENCH. "We skipped a few seasons, but we're very happy to be here now."

Richard van der Mark from JC SOPHIE, by nature already one of the 'positives', wasn't even against the old Modefabriek but also sees how well it has worked to break through outdated patterns. ”Modefabriek has done everything the clients wanted, but it's just as much up to us to invest in such a beautiful platform. Trade fairs are under pressure worldwide, and that’s a challenge for all of us."

For Natasja Goedemans, who is at Modefabriek for the first time with luxury homewear label SUNDAY IN BED, but who is also familiar with previous editions in a different role, a visit to Modefabriek is a must anyway: "It’s a great way to discover beautiful new brands."

Mieke Walstra from MSCH COPENHAGEN took on the challenge of hosting her own fashion show at one of the 'Community Tables' along the surprise route with tables throughout Modefabriek. While she enthusiastically discussed the collection highlights on this improv catwalk, the audience was invited to roll a large die for a goodie bag. She is exuberantly positive about the wide aisles and playful open layout, the curated boutique atmosphere, and the pleasant buzz. "We have so many beautiful brands! Very well done, Modefabriek!"

For Lars Gelling, commercial director of SUMMUM, the vibe at the new Modefabriek was exactly as it should be: "It feels like being at a festival, such a positive and vibrant energy, and very accessible."

There are also exhibitors who are at Modefabriek for the first time, such as the high-end label ELLA&IL from Norway. Owner Rikke Holmen-Jensen is very positively surprised: "I hope that other fairs will follow suit, such good energy!"



Only positive trends

Not only the atmosphere among participants and visitors was extremely positive. All the trends for 2026 also indicate that we want to celebrate life and take matters into our own hands. We don't want to creatively flirt with doom, destruction and other dystopian fantasies anymore, we've had enough of that already. The presentations of TRENDFORUM at the entrance and the TALKS by trend experts Lidewij Edelkoort and Jan Agelink paint an optimistic, loving, playful, sometimes magical, and above all very human picture, as if, under the pressure of various troubles and concerning developments in the world, we suddenly realize what really matters. We will prioritize our well-being and happiness, we want beauty, joy, and wonder, even in the small everyday things. We want to enjoy life and consciously focus on positive inspiration and information, which in turn makes us more positive and naturally helps us create a more positive reality. The real physical world is triumphing over the digital one – we are coming together again.

At Modefabriek, all that positivity and beauty was clearly visible and tangible. Let’s hold on to these positive vibes and keep them going until we meet again for the summer edition of Modefabriek on July 6 & 7, at yet another exciting new location!

Written by Mo Veld