Mohair South Africa Shines at Pitti Filati 2024
Pitti Filati, an annual event in Florence, is a premier global gathering in the yarn and textile industry. This event showcases the latest trends, innovations, and advancements in yarns for the fashion sector. This year's focus was prominently on sustainability, innovative yarns, and environmental responsibility, reflecting the industry’s evolving priorities and consumer demand for ethical and eco-friendly products. Over 3,500 visitors attended the show, including buyers from Europe, the US, China, and Turkey, with the largest contingent from the UK.
Mohair South Africa collaborated with Sophie Stellar Studio for concept design, fabric creation, and garment production this year. Additionally, we partnered with international spinners, including Samil, Stucken Yarns, Polipeli, Igea, Ilaria, Lanificio dell’Olivo, Filpucci, Lineapiu, Industria, and BeMiVa, who generously sponsored their exceptional yarns.
Mohair South Africa attended Pitti Filati with several key objectives in mind. First and foremost, we aimed to promote mohair fibre, enhancing its global visibility and recognition as a sustainable, premium, and distinctly South African natural fibre. The presence of Stucken and Samil representatives on the stand, offering technical yarn information to visitors, was a valuable addition.
Another important goal was to showcase our industry’s commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and regenerative agriculture. We also sought to strategically establish Mohair South Africa as the definitive representative of the South African mohair industry, enhancing its visibility and influence globally. This involved promoting the unique qualities of South African mohair, building strong relationships with key stakeholders, and actively participating in international events to solidify our brand’s presence and reputation.
Pitti Filati provided numerous opportunities for networking. We connected with key stakeholders, potential clients, and industry leaders, facilitating discussions that could lead to future collaborations. The event brings together relevant members of the value chain who are there to be inspired, have productive conversations, and make connections. The value of an in-person, tactile, and visual presence is instrumental in relationship building.
Mohair’s versatility makes it the perfect fibre for creativity in both spinning and knitting, which was explored in our display, dedicated to the concept of Nature Spun: celebrating mohair’s creative potential. Inspiration and creativity were at the forefront of our exhibition. Sophie showcased multi-textural surfaces and effects with inspiring novelty spun yarns from leading mohair spinners. We presented a collection of multi-surfaced tactile knits using innovative stitch structures and techniques that paid homage to heritage while adding a slightly wilder twist, highlighting mohair’s superb performance and unique aesthetic appeal. The stand attracted high foot traffic, with well-positioned mannequins that encouraged visitors to photograph, video, and interact with the fabrics.
The dominant trends at this year's Pitti Filati included a significant emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly yarns, with many exhibitors showcasing their environmental certifications. Innovative blends and new dyeing techniques are enhancing yarns' functionality and aesthetic appeal, responding to the fast-paced and disruptive fashion trends driven by Gen Z consumers. Fine yarns, including mohair, linen, wool, and alpaca, were a prominent trend at the show, with mohair yarns being showcased extensively across numerous spinners’ booths. The increasing use of digital tools for product passports and traceability, in line with upcoming EU legislation, was another notable trend. There is also a growing movement to involve students and designers in understanding the importance of sustainable fashion and engaging them in discussions about the industry’s challenges, recognising that it is their future and legacy.
Participation in Pitti Filati has reinforced Mohair South Africa’s position as a leading advocate for sustainable and innovative South African natural fibres. The event has provided valuable insights, networking opportunities, and a platform to promote mohair’s unique qualities. Moving forward, we aim to leverage these opportunities to further enhance the visibility and appeal of mohair globally, ensuring continued growth and sustainability in the industry.
