Moda x Pure on opening day of AUTUMNFAIR, Nec Birmingham

Moda x Pure made a dynamic debut on opening day at Autumn Fair, drawing fashion buyers from across the UK and beyond to the NEC Birmingham. The destination offered an inspiring showcase of womenswear, accessories, footwear, and lifestyle collections, blending returning favourites with exciting new brands, alongside opportunities for inspiration, learning and connection. The buzz on the show floor reflected confident buying decisions, fresh industry connections, and a strong start to the autumn fashion season.

Building on the momentum from its successful Spring Fair launch, Moda x Pure returns with an expanded line-up and a sharpened focus on the evolving needs of independent fashion retailers. This season’s offering features a carefully curated mix of trend-led and ethically minded brands, appealing to a wide range of retailers, from established independents to emerging boutiques, who are seeking season-ready stock, sustainable innovations, and brands aligned with today’s conscious consumer. Among those spotted on the show floor were Wilkies, Bradbeers, WM Nicholls & Co, Just Lily, Rutherford & Co, Oberon, Sister, Shirley Allum, Lilac Rose, Accessorised By Elite, Leaf Clothing, Alligator Pear and Justina.

The positive atmosphere on the Moda x Pure show floor was echoed by both exhibitors and buyers, who shared their excitement about new discoveries, strong orders, and the invaluable opportunity to connect face-to-face. 

Visitors embraced the show’s curated content programme, with the new Retail Corner styled as a British independent shopfront, delivering daily seminars on trends, merchandising, and industry insights to inspire and support retailers beyond the four days of the show. Alex Schlagman, Founder of SaveTheHighStreet.org, took to the stage to give visitors an exclusive behind-the-scenes insight into The Retail Makeover Mission. This inspiring session highlighted how competition winners, OSO Fashion Boutique and Taba Naba, have transformed their businesses with the support of the expert Task Team. Drawing on guidance in branding, visual merchandising, PR, and retail strategy, the session demonstrated how tailored expertise can unlock growth and resilience for independent retailers. Samantha Gibbs, Founder of Nest and Task Team expert advised, “Become an expert of trade shows. If you are a bricks & mortar retailer you are the customer here, and you are a version of your customer back at the shop. So, it's your opportunity to taste, touch and feel the collections.”

Both winners spoke passionately about building community, embracing courage, and setting clear long-term visions, underlining the vital role independents play in the future of the UK high street. Katie Gibbs, Owner of OSO Fashion Boutique shared, “This competition literally spoke to me. I am at the point now where I need to understand the three or four things that I need to focus on as a business to enable me to transform.” Gibbs continued, “Part of it is sustaining what it already is, which is more than just a place you buy clothes, it’s a community hub. I want to retain that, but I also want it to become a powerhouse for profit. I want to build OSO Boutique as a bigger brand, both online and in-store.” More than just success stories, the session highlighted how passion, support, and expert guidance are empowering independents to thrive in today’s competitive market.

Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director of Autumn Fair, said, “Moda x Pure continues to grow as a vibrant hub for independent fashion retailers seeking fresh, ethically minded collections and genuine connections. The energy on opening day is a clear sign that the sector is buzzing with optimism and opportunity. We’re proud to support this community with an inspiring showcase, expert content, and invaluable networking that will help retailers thrive this season and beyond. Moda x Pure is about creating an experience where retailers can source, learn, and connect in one vibrant destination.”