Over 100 graduates from German and international fashion schools in Basel, Linz, London, Kyiv, and Toronto will present their graduation collections. At the same time, the platform is emphasizing its role as a central hub connecting education, industry, and career entry more than ever before. Uwe Mazura, CEO of the Gesamtverband textil+mode: “Supporting young talent requires visibility, political backing, and strong networks. Neo.Fashion. does exactly that: it showcases talent, connects it with the industry, and bridges the gap between education and career entry – for the entire industry.”

Next.Level.Network: A Meeting Place for the Future of Fashion

This year’s Neo.Fashion. kicks off on July 2 with the Next.Level.Network.Event. Here, up-and-coming designers will meet decision-makers from the fashion industry, politics, media, startups, and textile research. The goal is to open up concrete opportunities and create lasting connections that extend beyond the event. A key highlight of the program is the “Tex Started” initiative by the Gesamtverband textil+mode. It brings together startups and small-to-medium-sized enterprises and showcases forward-looking developments such as digital production processes, sustainable and smart materials, and innovative business models.

Particularly practical is the speed-coaching program, where industry experts provide direct feedback and support talented individuals in further developing their ideas. In this way, Neo.Fashion. clearly positions itself as a career platform and innovation hub – going far beyond traditional fashion shows.

New location as a symbol of new beginnings

For the first time, Neo.Fashion. will take place at Neues Ufer 13 in Berlin-Moabit. “Neues Ufer stands for new beginnings – for us as a platform and for the talents who are preparing their next steps here,” says Jens Zander, founder of Neo.Fashion.

In 2026, the event will be organized entirely without public funding – supported by the commitment of universities, partners, and a volunteer organizing team from the Neo.Fashion. e.V., newly founded in 2025. The Gesamtverband textil+mode is one of the founding members.

International collaborations as drivers of growth

Another focus of this year’s Neo.Fashion. is international networking: In addition to the new partner universities, Fashion Art Toronto (FAT) – Canada’s leading platform for fashion and art – is participating in Neo.Fashion. for the first time. A total of around 80 selected emerging designers will present their work in ten graduate fashion shows.

The highlight is the “Best Graduates Show“, featuring the presentation of the Neo.Fashion.Award, where a high-caliber jury from the worlds of fashion, media, industry, and digital fashion honors the most promising talents.

Three days of Neo.Fashion 2026:

Thursday, July 2nd:

• Next.Level.Network (focus on networking and careers)

• Graduate shows from international universities

Friday, July 3rd:

• Graduate shows from German universities

Saturday, July 4th:

• Digital Fashion Panel Talk

• Aspiring Designer Shows und “Best Graduates Show“ with award ceremony.