For five editions, Children’s Show has been redefining the world of children’s fashion, giving it a platform as sophisticated, dynamic, and inspiring as the collections it showcases. In this milestone edition, founder Virginia Zingone shares her insights on the evolution of the industry, the bold vision behind this year’s theme—Masquerade —and how the show continues to blend creativity, commerce, and community. From emerging trends and sustainability to groundbreaking collaborations and immersive experiences, Virginia reveals why Children’s Show is more than a trade event—it’s a cultural hub shaping the future of kids’ fashion.
1. Virginia, congratulations on the 5th edition of Children’s Show! What does reaching this milestone mean to you personally and professionally?
Thank you! Reaching the 5th edition is an incredibly proud moment—not just for me, but for everyone who has been part of this journey. Personally, it’s a reminder of how far passion and consistency can take you. Professionally, it reaffirms that the vision we started with—to give children’s fashion its own strong, elevated platform—was not only needed, but wholeheartedly embraced. It proves that we’re building something with real impact.
2. Each edition brings new energy and innovation. What distinguishes this 5th edition? What feels different or special about it?
This edition feels bold. Our theme, Masquerade , captures the idea that fashion is the grandest theatre of all. Every day we play a part through what we wear—sometimes to reveal ourselves, sometimes to hide. So the question becomes: Is your outfit your mask, or is your mask your outfit?
In the great performance called life, fashion is our instrument of expression. And in children’s fashion, that expression is freer, more joyful, and more authentic than anywhere else. Kids don’t follow rules; they dress to explore, to play, to dream. That spirit is the essence of Masquerade—not hiding, but celebrating who we are.
Beyond the theme, we’ve elevated the experience in every direction. This season feels more dynamic, more global, and much more focused on meaningful activations. Instead of just an exhibition, we’re creating an immersive journey.
3. The industry is evolving fast. What major shifts have you seen in children’s fashion this past year?
The biggest shift is how quickly children’s fashion is aligning with the pace and sophistication of adult fashion—through design, storytelling, and purpose. Brands are no longer creating “cute collections”; they’re creating identities. We’ve also seen real acceleration in sustainability, tech integration, and gender-neutral design language.
4. Are there any emerging themes or directions among the brands showing this season?
Absolutely. We’re seeing a lot of timeless minimalism, elevated craftsmanship, and deeply authentic storytelling. On the production side, responsibility and traceability are becoming nonnegotiable. In communication, brands are speaking less like corporations and more like communities, building emotional connections rather than campaigns.
5. Buyer behavior and retail models have changed dramatically. How is Children’s Show adapting to meet these new expectations?
Today’s buyers want more than a transactional moment—they want context, curation, and value. That’s why we’ve integrated digital tools, personalized matchmaking, and content-driven activations. Everything is designed to help brands and buyers build stronger, more strategic, and more efficient connections. We’re meeting buyers where they are: fast, informed, and highly selective.
6. Sustainability is now a standard expectation. How are brands interpreting “responsible fashion” in 2025, and how does the show support that?
Exactly—sustainability is no longer a trend; it’s the baseline. What’s exciting is how brands are moving far beyond “eco-friendly fabrics” toward full-circle responsibility: supply chain transparency, inclusivity, and ethical storytelling. As a platform, we spotlight and support these efforts, giving responsible brands the visibility and voice they deserve.
7. You’ve created a space that blends business and creativity. How do you balance being a commercial platform and a creative hub?
Commerce and creativity should never be in conflict—they fuel one another. Our mission is not just to stand out as an elevated trade fair, but to create a true experience. We build a strong commercial foundation that supports real business opportunities, then infuse it with creativity, storytelling, and inspiration. That’s why Children’s Show feels less like a traditional trade show and more like a curated ecosystem—where brands, buyers, and the broader community come together to collaborate and grow beyond the event itself.
8. This 5th edition brings exciting new collaborations and activations. Can you share a highlight?
We’re thrilled to introduce several exciting collaborations this season. First, our partnership with Livetrend, an innovative digital platform that predicts upcoming trends, is a true game-changer. It empowers both buyers and brands to anticipate market movements and make more confident, aligned decisions. For designers, it serves as a rich source of inspiration and creative insight.
Another key collaboration is with B-Samply, as we expand digital matchmaking between exhibitors—before, during, and after the show—creating stronger, more strategic connections. These partnerships perfectly embody what Children’s Show stands for: a connected, thriving community that extends far beyond the event itself.
And, of course, the most anticipated experience of the show is our Runway, powered by Junior Style and curated by Aleksandra Ataca. This dynamic runway allows brands to tell their stories in motion, not just on a hanger, while kids’ performances and joyful moments bring the entire experience to life, creating a truly immersive celebration of creativity and fashion.
9. For young or emerging brands joining for the first time, what’s your expert advice to make a strong impression?
Be intentional. Don’t just show your product—tell your story. Know who you are, what makes you different, and communicate it with clarity and confidence. Build real relationships, not just contact lists. This industry values authenticity and consistency, and that’s what makes a lasting impression.
10. What advice would you give to brands wanting to maximize their results from Children’s Show or any trade show?
Come with a plan. Pre-book meetings, set clear goals, and treat your participation as a strategic investment. Use the platform to create momentum—strengthen relationships, amplify your visibility, and position your brand smartly. And never underestimate the power of post-show follow-up; that’s often where deals are sealed.
11. In a digital era where so much happens online, why are physical trade shows still essential?
Because nothing replaces human connection. We saw it clearly during and after COVID: fashion is made of people, ideas, and experience. You can scroll endlessly online, but seeing a collection live and feeling the fabric—and having a genuine face-to-face conversation—is where trust is built. Trade shows foster community, inspiration, and relationships in a way the digital world simply can’t replicate.
12. Are trade shows today going beyond sales to shape trends, collaborations, and community?
Absolutely. Trade shows have evolved into cultural platforms. They influence trends, spark collaborations, and shape collective vision. They’re where conversations happen about design, sustainability, retail, and innovation. We’re not just a marketplace—we’re part of the industry’s evolution.
13. Looking beyond this milestone edition, what’s next for Children’s Show?
We’re focused on intentional expansion while staying deeply connected as a community. What we’re launching from New York is a version of the show designed to celebrate children’s fashion in a sophisticated, high-impact way—spotlighting creativity, innovation, and meaningful relationships.
We envision Children’s Show growing globally while staying true to our DNA as a curated, forward-thinking platform, integrating more tech, storytelling, and opportunities for long-term relationship building.
The 5th edition is a milestone—but truly, it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the entire community.
Visit www.childrenshow.com for more information about the show
