Pitti Bimbo 102: Florence welcomes global children's fashion with focus on innovation and synergy
The 102nd edition of Pitti Immagine Bimbo, Italy's premier children's fashion trade show, is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, and Thursday, January 22, 2026. Hosted on the Piano Attico of the Central Pavilion at the historic Fortezza da Basso in Florence, with a dedicated entrance via Porta Faenza, the event will unveil approximately 150 Autumn/Winter 2026/27 collections. Notably, over 65% of these collections will feature international brands, alongside confirmed leading kid's wear names, new brands, innovative projects, and special features.
This upcoming edition marks a significant relocation, driven by the strategic decision to run concurrently with Pitti Filati. This Florence-based salon showcases international excellence in yarns and knitwear, and its exhibitors and visitors will benefit from their own dedicated access, fostering a synergistic environment for industry professionals.
Raffaello Napoleone, CEO of Pitti Immagine, emphasizes the crucial importance of the January 2026 event for Pitti Bimbo. He explains that it will confirm and consolidate the show's direction, aligning it with the profound transformations occurring within the children’s fashion landscape. Key elements defining the show’s current identity include the most advanced trends in design and materials, the evolving sensibilities of young consumers (who increasingly influence purchasing), the growing importance of lifestyle, a research-driven entrepreneurial attitude, and the blurring lines between commercial, communication, and PR activities. This is further bolstered by meticulous collaboration with top international retailers, facilitated by the Italian Trade Agency (ICE).
Antonio Cristaudo, commercial director of Pitti Immagine, acknowledges the challenging economic climate, noting a slight impact on sign-up numbers as companies make decisions closer to deadlines, anticipating settling at around 85–90% of collections seen in recent editions. However, he highlights a strong commitment to elevating the quality of the offering through the inclusion of high-profile newcomers with significant market relevance.
The overarching editorial theme for Pitti Immagine’s winter shows is "Motion," conceived to inspire movement, change, and evolution. This theme is brought to life through a compelling campaign by Amedeo Piccione, featuring Pitt, an unusual penguin who feels cold despite his natural habitat. Pitt embarks on an adventurous journey of exploration, leaving the ice behind with a backpack, hat, and skis, full of hope, with his ultimate destination being, of course, Pitti Bimbo.
The Pitti Bimbo project team, comprising Lisa Chiari, Giuliana Parabiago, Valeria Santoni, and Tiziana Bellandi from the buyers’ office, recently conducted a comprehensive European roadshow. Visiting Naples, Paris, Madrid, Barcelona, London, and Milan, this initiative underscored the team's commitment to market proximity. They stressed that this direct engagement with kid's wear protagonists is fundamental to shaping Pitti Bimbo’s new course, working collaboratively with companies and retailers to scout new brands while reaffirming established names and groups, all aimed at injecting energy and support into the manufacturing and commercial sectors.
Pitti Bimbo 102 will introduce "The New Edit," an unprecedented contemporary project for the fair, featuring a dedicated area in partnership with Bobo Choses. This Spanish brand is celebrated for its successful fusion of modern design culture, high-quality manufacturing, and a conscious focus on sustainability. Returning collaborations include Piazza Pirouette, curated by Katie Kendrick, offering interactive stories and inventions, which will also present a runway show titled "The Winter Moth." Also returning is The Family Circle, the Hamburg-based marketplace founded by Nadine Jung, renowned for its carefully curated selection of accessories and lifestyle objects.
Visitors can also explore the usual exhibition areas, Pitti Bimbo 100% and The Kid’s Lab. Media partners such as "MilK," "Style Piccoli" (Corriere della Sera’s family magazine), and "Scimparello Magazine" will be present, with the latter presenting awards to its favorite pieces. Additionally, an insightful workshop titled "Evolution of the Modern Store. Balance between social media and relationships" will feature Massimiliano Alvisi, entrepreneur and founder of Shop Survivor training events, sharing valuable tips for successful retail operations.
