Denim Days Festival New York Is Like No Other Tradeshow I’ve Ever Attended

I’ve been following Denim Days Festival on Instagram for some time, but this year was the first time I was able to attend. I went with a friend of mine who made sure to up my anticipation level by repeatedly talking about how much fun she had when she attended the previous year. That’s not usual when talking about a tradeshow centered on apparel or retail. They’re usually much more serious, strictly business events where I often feel I have to wear my “game face”. In her opinion, the denim industry is so different than fashion as a whole because everyone is so much more laid back and friendly. I’d never really thought about it like that before even though I’ve been covering denim for over a decade. But after being out of the country for over a year and a half and reintroducing myself back into the industry I’d have to say I agree with her. Especially after attending Denim Days. I mean, wow! What a fete!

The main event was held at the Metropolitan Pavilion, but the entire street was blocked off for a block party and street fair. Denim vendors and artisans set up shop on the street showing their wares which ranged from jeans to home goods. Cotton Incorporated, one of the event sponsors, set up a Blue Jeans Go Green booth outside with a swing adorned with denim flowers and cotton bowls. It was a setup made for the gram and many people took advantage. There was even a gospel choir. Yes. A gospel choir. But except for choir robes, they opted for a uniform of jeans, sneakers, and t-shirts.

Walking the inside of the show was akin to walking outside of Lincoln Center during fashion week. Attendees made it a point to peacock their best denim streetwear with some of the most amazing styles being their own creations (check it out here). A small section was blocked off for a speaker series and I was able to catch a brilliant denim forecast by Rachel Crumbley. The booths themselves housed a variety of vendors, craftsman, and artists with exciting creations ranging from portraits made out of reclaimed denim to upcycled bespoke fashions. Recognizable names were in attendance as well such as OshKosh and Tencel.

It’s a shame I was only able to attend the one day because there was so much to see and absorb. The few hours I was able to spend there truly did not give it justice. When they come back to New York I will make it a priority to spend both days at the festival. In the meantime, scroll down to see some of the amazing creations I was able to view and the designers behind them.