The Fashion Council Germany's fourth Berlin Fashion X International delegation trip to New York City has successfully concluded. The nine selected (Berlin-based) fashion and accessory labels participated in a five-day program featuring engaging workshops, networking events, and location visits. The overarching goal of the delegation trip was to introduce them to the US market, discover new trends, and establish valuable contacts.

The nine delegation members – 6ad Stitches , Esther Perbandt , Fiona Bennett , Gina Melosi , International Citizen , Laura Gerte , Studio Taskin , Unvain , and William Fan – gained a concise yet intensive insight into the US market, with a clear focus on innovation, digitalization, and brand strategies. The program kicked off with a reception at the SAP “ S.FASHION ” Experience Lab, where topics such as big data and modern technologies in retail were the focus. These topics were further explored during the week through visits to the FIT DTech Lab and Meta. Here, data-driven solutions and digital tools were presented – providing inspiration for new perspectives on shopping experiences and brand development.

A pitch event at the beginning of the week offered participating brands an initial opportunity to present their concepts to renowned industry experts. The immediate feedback served as valuable preparation for the subsequent program items and meetings. In the following days, the delegation explored the New York retail scene – particularly at the intersection of luxury, art, and media. Discussions with store operators such as ESSX, Komune, and Café Forgot illuminated aspects of the buying process and highlighted the growing interest in German design labels.

In-depth information on entering the US market was provided through discussions with the German Chamber of Commerce in NYC (GACC), as well as with industry experts such as Michal Kurtis (Luxury Brand Consultant), Emma Oleck (Stylist & Fashion Market Editor, The Cut & NY Magazine), and Karo Brandi (Correspondent, Harper's Bazaar Germany). Topics such as digital sales strategies, logistics, and customer loyalty were addressed practically and supplemented by individual consulting sessions. A visit to the New York Embroidery Studio also provided valuable insights into production, design development, and collaboration with local manufacturing partners.

Another focus was on strategic brand communication. In collaboration with the agency Redgert Communications, the designers received practical insights into PR, storytelling, and sustainable brand building. Furthermore, the exchange with Nicole Phelps (Global Director, Vogue Runway), Mark Holgate (Global Network Lead and US Fashion Features Director, Vogue US), and Samuel Hine (Global Fashion Correspondent, GQ) from Vogue and GQ provided valuable perspectives. The program was rounded off with a visit to the studio of designer Kobi Halperin and a presentation by Tobias Ulmer of HYACYN, who emphasized the relevance of digital brand identity.

The trip offered participants not only access to important industry contacts, but also lasting impetus for innovation, positioning, and the international expansion of their brand. The next delegation trip will take place in September 2025, for the first time to Seoul, South Korea. Applications are open until April 17th HERE .

Berlin Fashion X International is supported by a state program, which is financed by ERDF funds and funds from the state of Berlin.