Founded in 2018, the Preface fabric trend show is introducing a completely new format on January 28 and 29 in Los Angeles at 356 S. Mission Road in the Arts District. The upcoming edition will explore the future of circular design, upcycling, and sustainability, marking a major shift in how the show supports professionals across the textile and fashion sectors.
Collaborative Production With Circularity Innovators
This edition is produced in partnership with Re/Assembly, co-founded by Sohyun Cho, Jodi Everding, Stina Randestad, and Ida Esteri Karkkainen, an organisation dedicated to helping creative talent transition to circular practices. Preface is also joining forces with Here/After, founded through the collaboration of Denim Dudes’ Amy Leverton and denim specialist Erin Barajas.
“This season marks a new chapter for Preface as we take a fully collaborative approach for the first time,” explains Preface founder Betsy Franjola. She notes that the addition of educational and trend-driven partners will shape the largest and most dynamic event the show has produced.
Focus on “Unraveling Circularity”
Under the theme Unraveling Circularity, the event will bring together industry pioneers, educators, and suppliers to present tools and insights on circular design. Exhibitors, panels, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities aim to provide designers and brands with the resources needed to integrate circularity and upcycling into their design and production workflows.
Expanded Denim Presence Through Here/After and Denim Dudes
The show floor will feature an expanded denim supply chain zone curated by Denim Dudes. Participants include Orta, Iskur, Lab Denim, Desert Studio, Denimai, and Maritas. Attendees will also gain access to global denim insights, trend forecasts, industry analyses, and discussions on culture, creativity, and the evolution of denim.
“We’ve hosted intimate and elevated community experiences with fresh perspectives and unconventional voices,” says Here/After co-founder Erin Barajas. “I’m excited to bring that same energy to a broader audience.”
A Live Upcycling Fashion Design Competition
A highlight of this year's edition is Re/Assembly’s Upcycling Fashion Design Competition. Following an expert-led educational program, selected emerging designers will participate in a six-hour live challenge. Their task is to transform post-consumer garments, textile waste, and recycled materials into runway-ready looks in front of the audience.
The competition is designed for 3rd- and 4th-year students as well as recent graduates. Finalists will be chosen based on design language, craftsmanship, process, and commitment to sustainable practices.
“Our Upcycling Design Competition proves that circularity is not a limitation—it is a catalyst for originality and creativity,” says award-winning designer and Re/Assembly creative director Stina Randestad.
Winners will receive a Juki sewing machine and a €750 gift card from recycled fabric manufacturer Weturn. Additional prizes may be announced.
Industry Participation and Registration
The trade show expects attendance from brands such as AG Jeans, Frame, Reformation, Good American, Paige, True Religion, Staud, Buck Mason, Rails, Doen, and L’Agence. Emerging designers, sourcing teams, and sustainability leaders are also expected to join.
Preface welcomes professionals from all areas of the fashion supply chain, including founders, creative directors, and production specialists. Attendance is free, and registration is available online.
