WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 Brings Global Fashion Brands and Retail Opportunities Back to Paris
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WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 Brings Global Fashion Brands and Retail Opportunities Back to Paris, creating a major international platform where designers, buyers, retailers and fashion professionals connect to discover new collections and future market trends. Returning to Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from 5–7 September 2026, the event will unite ready-to-wear brands, accessories companies, lifestyle businesses and creative labels because the fashion industry continues to seek stronger global partnerships and retail opportunities. With around 1,200 exhibiting brands and approximately 38,000 professional visitors, including a significant buyer community, WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 will strengthen Paris’ role as a global fashion marketplace where creativity meets commercial growth.
WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 Returns to Paris as Global Fashion Industry Prepares for Major Trade Showcase
WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 will return to Paris Expo Porte de Versailles as fashion professionals from around the world prepare to discover new collections, meet emerging brands and explore future retail opportunities. The September edition will bring together companies from ready-to-wear, accessories, lifestyle, beauty and creative industries, reinforcing Paris’ position as an international centre for fashion business.
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Unlike public fashion exhibitions, WHO’S NEXT is designed primarily for industry professionals. Buyers, retailers, distributors and fashion businesses attend the event to identify new brands, source products and create commercial partnerships for upcoming seasons.
The event is organised by WSN, the organisation behind major Paris fashion trade events, and forms part of a wider ecosystem connecting fashion, accessories, jewellery and lifestyle sectors.
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What Is WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 and Why Is It Important?
WHO’S NEXT PARIS is one of Europe’s recognised professional fashion trade shows, connecting international brands with buyers and retail professionals. Established as a platform for fashion discovery, the event focuses on helping businesses understand market trends, expand distribution networks and build relationships with industry decision-makers. (wsn-events.com)
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The importance of WHO’S NEXT comes from its position between creativity and commerce. Fashion brands use the event to introduce seasonal collections, while buyers use it as a sourcing platform to identify products that match changing consumer preferences.
The event covers multiple areas of the fashion industry, including clothing, accessories, lifestyle products, beauty and emerging designer collections.
WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 Event Details
| Category | Official Information |
|---|---|
| Event Name | WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 |
| Dates | 5–7 September 2026 |
| Venue | Paris Expo Porte de Versailles |
| Location | Paris, France |
| Address | 1 Place de la Porte de Versailles, 75015 Paris |
| Organiser | WSN |
| Event Type | International B2B fashion trade show |
| Main Sectors | Ready-to-wear, accessories, lifestyle, beauty and creative brands |
| Main Audience | Buyers, retailers, distributors, fashion professionals and e-commerce companies |
| Co-located Events | BIJORHCA and other WSN events |
| Frequency | Twice yearly |
| Main Purpose | Brand discovery, sourcing, networking and business development |
The event details demonstrate that WHO’S NEXT is built around professional connections rather than consumer shopping. Its location at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles gives exhibitors and visitors access to one of Europe’s largest exhibition venues, which regularly hosts international business events.
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For international visitors, the September edition also provides an opportunity to experience Paris during a key period for fashion activity, when brands, retailers and creative professionals gather to discuss future trends.
Who Will Attend WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026?
WHO’S NEXT attracts a wide range of professionals across the fashion supply chain. According to WSN, the event brings together around 38,000 visitors, with approximately 70% identified as buyers, including retailers, multi-brand stores, department stores and e-commerce businesses. The show also features around 1,200 exhibiting brands representing different fashion categories.
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The visitor profile reflects the international importance of the event because attendees are not limited to French businesses. Buyers and professionals arrive from European and overseas markets looking for new suppliers, innovative brands and commercially attractive collections.
Visitor Profile
| Visitor Category | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fashion buyers | Discover new collections and brands |
| Retailers | Source products for stores |
| Department stores | Build supplier relationships |
| Concept stores | Find exclusive products |
| E-commerce companies | Identify online retail opportunities |
| Distributors | Expand brand networks |
| Designers | Present creative concepts |
| Stylists | Follow upcoming trends |
| Fashion media | Report on industry developments |
| Trend agencies | Analyse future market movements |
WHO’S NEXT is particularly valuable for businesses that want international exposure because buyers attending the show are often searching for brands capable of bringing fresh ideas to their markets.
The event also provides smaller businesses with opportunities that may be difficult to achieve through traditional sales channels, allowing emerging designers to meet buyers directly.
Which Fashion Categories Will Be Showcased at WHO’S NEXT 2026?
WHO’S NEXT presents a broad selection of fashion and lifestyle products, allowing visitors to explore different segments of the modern fashion market. The exhibition connects clothing brands with companies specialising in accessories, beauty and lifestyle products.
Exhibitor Categories
| Exhibitor Type | Products Presented |
|---|---|
| Ready-to-wear brands | Clothing collections and seasonal fashion |
| Accessories companies | Bags, jewellery, footwear and fashion items |
| Lifestyle brands | Consumer lifestyle products |
| Beauty companies | Cosmetics and wellness products |
| Sustainable brands | Responsible fashion collections |
| Emerging designers | New creative concepts |
| International labels | Global fashion collections |
The diversity of exhibitors allows buyers to source complete product ranges rather than focusing on a single category. A retailer visiting WHO’S NEXT can discover clothing, accessories and lifestyle products that complement each other within a wider commercial strategy.
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The event is also important for independent designers because Paris buyers often search for unique concepts and brands with strong creative identity.
Why Is WHO’S NEXT Important for Emerging Fashion Brands?
For emerging fashion companies, WHO’S NEXT provides a gateway into international markets. Smaller brands often face challenges in reaching global buyers, and trade exhibitions provide an opportunity to present collections directly to retail decision-makers.
The event helps emerging brands by providing:
- International visibility
- Direct buyer meetings
- Retail opportunities
- Distribution partnerships
- Trend exposure
- Industry networking
Established brands also benefit because the exhibition allows them to strengthen relationships with existing buyers while identifying new markets.
WHO’S NEXT therefore acts as both a discovery platform and a commercial marketplace where creativity can translate into business opportunities.
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What Are the Main Highlights of WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026?
The September 2026 edition will continue the event’s focus on fashion discovery, retail connections and industry innovation.
Key highlights include:
- International fashion brands
- Ready-to-wear collections
- Accessories and lifestyle products
- Beauty concepts
- Emerging designers
- Sustainable fashion initiatives
- Networking opportunities
- Trend discussions
WSN also develops professional content around its events, including discussions and industry insights designed to help businesses understand changing consumer behaviour.
The combination of exhibitions, networking and trend analysis makes WHO’S NEXT more than a product showcase. It acts as a meeting place where the fashion industry evaluates future opportunities.
Where Will WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 Take Place?
WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 will take place at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, one of Europe’s largest and most recognised exhibition venues. Located in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, the venue hosts major international trade fairs, fashion exhibitions and business events throughout the year.
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The venue’s location gives international visitors a major advantage because it is directly connected with Paris’ public transport network and surrounded by hotels, restaurants and business services.
Venue Information Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Paris Expo Porte de Versailles |
| Address | 1 Place de la Porte de Versailles, 75015 Paris, France |
| District | 15th arrondissement |
| Nearest Metro | Porte de Versailles |
| Metro Line | Line 12 |
| Tram Access | T2 and T3a |
| Venue Type | International exhibition and conference centre |
| Visitor Facilities | Exhibition halls, meeting areas, restaurants and services |
The venue allows exhibitors to create large-scale brand presentations while giving buyers enough space to explore collections, attend meetings and connect with suppliers.
For international professionals, the location is especially convenient because visitors can easily travel between the exhibition centre, airports, hotels and central Paris attractions.
How Can International Visitors Reach WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026?
Paris has one of the world’s strongest transport networks, making WHO’S NEXT accessible for buyers, exhibitors and fashion professionals arriving from different countries.
Visitors can reach Paris Expo Porte de Versailles by air, rail, metro, tram, taxi or private transfer.
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Airport Guide
| Airport | Approximate Distance | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) | Around 35 km | International long-haul visitors |
| Paris Orly Airport (ORY) | Around 15 km | European and regional travellers |
| Paris Beauvais Airport | Around 90 km | Selected low-cost routes |
Charles de Gaulle Airport is the main gateway for overseas visitors because it connects Paris with major global destinations. Orly Airport is closer to the venue and can be practical for European travellers.
Visitors can continue their journey through:
- Airport taxis
- Public transport
- Private transfers
- Rental cars
For business travellers carrying samples or exhibition materials, pre-arranged transfers may provide greater convenience.
How Can Visitors Reach Paris Expo Porte de Versailles by Public Transport?
The venue benefits from direct access to Paris’ public transport system.
Public Transport Options
| Transport | Route |
|---|---|
| Metro | Line 12 – Porte de Versailles station |
| Tram | T2 and T3a |
| Bus | Multiple Paris bus routes |
| Taxi | Available throughout Paris |
The metro is usually the most practical option for visitors staying in central Paris because it avoids traffic delays and provides direct access to the exhibition area.
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Visitors attending multiple days should consider staying near metro connections to reduce daily travel time.
Where Should Visitors Stay During WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026?
September is a busy month for Paris because of major trade events, tourism activity and fashion-related programmes. Visitors should reserve accommodation early, particularly those attending all three exhibition days.
Accommodation Guide
| Area | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Porte de Versailles | Closest option for exhibition visitors |
| Montparnasse | Strong transport links and restaurants |
| Saint-Germain-des-Prés | Luxury hotels, culture and dining |
| Eiffel Tower Area | Premium tourism experience |
| Opera District | Shopping, business and city access |
| Central Paris | Best for combining work and sightseeing |
Porte de Versailles
This is the most convenient choice for exhibitors and buyers attending WHO’S NEXT because visitors can reach the exhibition venue quickly and avoid long daily journeys.
The area offers business hotels, restaurants and easy transport connections.
Montparnasse
Montparnasse provides a balance between business convenience and Parisian atmosphere. It has excellent metro connections, restaurants and accommodation options suitable for professional travellers.
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Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Visitors who want to combine fashion business with luxury tourism may prefer Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The district offers boutique hotels, galleries, restaurants and proximity to major cultural attractions.
Opera and Central Paris
These areas are ideal for visitors who want access to shopping districts, luxury brands and famous Paris landmarks after exhibition hours.
Why Is Paris the Perfect City for WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026?
Paris remains one of the world’s most influential fashion capitals, making it a natural location for WHO’S NEXT.
The city is home to luxury fashion houses, creative studios, designers, fashion schools and global retail destinations. This environment supports WHO’S NEXT’s mission of connecting brands with buyers and showcasing future fashion movements.
Visitors attending the event can explore Paris’ wider fashion ecosystem, including:
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- Luxury shopping districts
- Designer boutiques
- Fashion museums
- Creative neighbourhoods
- Cultural landmarks
The combination of business opportunities and cultural experiences makes Paris particularly attractive for international fashion professionals.
How Can Brands Participate in WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026?
WHO’S NEXT is designed for professional fashion businesses, and brands interested in participating can apply through WSN’s official exhibitor channels.
The selection process focuses on brand identity, collection quality and relevance to the event’s fashion ecosystem.
Benefits of Exhibiting
| Benefit | Importance |
|---|---|
| Global visibility | Reach international buyers |
| Retail connections | Build partnerships |
| Brand positioning | Strengthen market identity |
| Product presentation | Showcase collections |
| Networking | Meet industry professionals |
For emerging designers, the event provides an opportunity to introduce collections to buyers who actively search for new brands.
For established companies, WHO’S NEXT provides a platform to maintain relationships and discover future market opportunities.
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What Business Opportunities Does WHO’S NEXT Create?
WHO’S NEXT creates opportunities throughout the fashion supply chain, from product discovery to international expansion.
Business Opportunities
- Discover international brands
- Find retail partners
- Expand distribution networks
- Identify emerging designers
- Explore lifestyle trends
- Build export opportunities
- Understand consumer preferences
- Develop supplier relationships
The event helps businesses respond to changing fashion markets by bringing together creative brands and commercial buyers.
For retailers, it provides access to new collections. For brands, it creates opportunities to enter new markets.
How Does WHO’S NEXT Connect With Other WSN Events?
WHO’S NEXT forms part of the wider WSN fashion ecosystem, which includes other specialised events covering jewellery, accessories and lifestyle categories.
During the September 2026 edition, visitors can also explore related events such as BIJORHCA, strengthening the connection between fashion, jewellery and accessories.
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This combined approach reflects how modern retail increasingly integrates different product categories.
A fashion buyer today may not only search for clothing but also accessories, jewellery, beauty products and lifestyle items, making interconnected trade platforms increasingly valuable.
Visitor Tips for WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026
Visitors can maximise their experience by preparing before arrival.
Essential Tips
- Register before travelling.
- Confirm event access requirements.
- Book hotels early.
- Schedule meetings with brands in advance.
- Plan transport routes.
- Carry professional identification.
- Allow enough time to explore exhibition halls.
- Follow official WSN updates.
Business visitors should prepare a meeting schedule because WHO’S NEXT attracts many brands and buyers within a limited three-day period.
Conclusion
WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 Brings Global Fashion Brands and Retail Opportunities Back to Paris because the event continues to serve as a vital meeting point for the international fashion industry. By connecting global fashion brands with buyers, retailers, distributors and creative professionals, the showcase creates opportunities for sourcing, partnerships and business expansion. The reason behind its continued importance is Paris’ unmatched position as a fashion capital combined with WHO’S NEXT’s ability to bring together ready-to-wear, accessories, beauty and lifestyle sectors. With thousands of industry professionals attending and brands presenting future collections, WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 will remain a key platform shaping retail opportunities and the next direction of global fashion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When will WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 take place?
WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 will take place from 5–7 September 2026.
Where will WHO’S NEXT PARIS 2026 be held?
The event will take place at:
Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
1 Place de la Porte de Versailles
75015 Paris, France
Who organises WHO’S NEXT?
The event is organised by WSN, the Paris-based fashion trade show organiser.
Who should attend WHO’S NEXT?
The event is designed for:
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- Fashion buyers
- Retailers
- Designers
- Distributors
- E-commerce companies
- Fashion professionals
- Media representatives
How many brands participate?
WSN states that WHO’S NEXT brings together around 1,200 exhibiting brands.
How many visitors attend?
WSN states that the event attracts around 38,000 visitors, with approximately 70% buyers.
Is WHO’S NEXT open to consumers?
No. WHO’S NEXT is primarily a professional B2B fashion trade event.
What industries are represented?
The event covers:
- Ready-to-wear fashion
- Accessories
- Lifestyle products
- Beauty
- Emerging creative brands
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