B&B were pleased to attend the Custom Tailors & Designers Association (CTDA) Designer Forum New York in July – for the fifth time in the last three years!
The CTDA is the oldest running trade organisation in the United States. Founded in the late 19th century in Columbus, Ohio, it was established as a venue through which ideas and techniques for design, pattern making, and tailoring could be shared and exchanged. The organisation continues to thrive today thanks to the continuing demand for high-quality custom clothing – not just suits but shirts and accessories as well. Membership includes distinguished master tailors, designers, custom clothiers and direct sellers, who create fine custom clothing for clients throughout the United States.
The Designer Forum New York is a bi-annual event connecting retail buyers and custom clothiers with designers and manufactures from the US and further afield. Conveniently located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan at The London Hotel, the show caters primarily to upscale menswear buyers. However, over the last few years we are pleased to notice the growing involvement of bespoke ladieswear buyers, bridal designers, custom clothiers and tailors in the US, Canada and from around the world.
The boutique style hotel allows each exhibitor to have their own unique, personalised showroom across a couple of floors of the hotel. Visitors to the show are then able to peruse each suite at their leisure around the educational classes that take place at the hotel such as measuring and fabric knowledge classes. Over the three-day show we enjoyed meeting new potential customers as well as re-connecting with designers and tailors we had met at previous shows who have now become regular customers. This gives us the opportunity to showcase new products such as our latest printed lining called “Let’s Go Snorkelling” and some exclusive, limited edition buttons.
We look forward to attending the Designer Forum New York again next year in order to continue building relationships with the CTDA and its members.
