Like most industries, fashion has trade organizations that represent various segments of their industry. These membership organizations provide a heads up on industry standards, emerging trends, latest technologies, proposed rules and regulations, controversial bills and opportunities to network.
Scope
These trade associations range from world wide organizations to state and regional market affiliates.
Locations
Some groups are international, such as Fashion Group International (FGI), with local chapters throughout the country. Most associations are regional, such as the East Coast-based Council of Fashion Designers of American (CFDA) or the West Coast California-based California Fashion Association (CFA). These groups cooperate on large issues and sometimes are in disagreement with each other based on their particular market.
Communications
Meetings are conducted to keep membership aware of developments in their field. Trade shows showcasing emerging trends are another means of communicating with membership. Newsletters, emails, and ballots to vote for officers are standard communications among trade association members.
Membership
Membership in some organizations is by invitation and in others it is an application process. Annual dues are normal. Specific guidelines for membership vary by organization.
International Associations
Some French Fashion Trade Organizations include the Centre d'Etudes des Industries de l'Habillement, Fédération des Industries de la Maille et Bonneterie, and Fédération Française de la Couture. Japan's organizations include the Association of Total Fashion, Japan Apparel Industry Council, and the Japan Fashion Color Association.
Benefits
Fashion Trade Associations are an excellent way to keep on top of an ever changing industry.
Tags: Fashion Trade, emerging trends, Fashion Trade Associations, Trade Associations