Functional Fabric Fair, powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS, previewed its Expert Talks program, which will highlight the focus topic of “Colorization: Chemistry is Everywhere.” Taking place Nov. 20-21 at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland, these expert-led panel and presentation sessions will be held on the show floor stage and are open to all badge holders.
The new focus topic on colorization will offer insight into the chemistry behind color, including dyeing techniques and material innovations.
Functional Fabric Fair is recognized as North America’s premier and most curated textile trade show. The fall edition will feature an expanded show floor of 300+ sustainable-certified suppliers showcasing the latest innovations in high-performance functional fabrics, finishes, trims and accessories for the 2025/2026 fall and winter seasons. The fair is open to verified industry professionals – designers, product developers, purchasing agents, material managers and students – seeking to source for outdoor, performance and lifestyle apparel. Attendees will also be able to network with other professionals, get inspired and learn about the latest advancements from industry experts.
“We are excited to bring together top industry thought leaders who will share the latest insights on sustainability, performance materials and the future of textile design for Earth and beyond,” said Functional Fabric Fair event director, Steve McCullough. “The Expert Talks programming is an invaluable resource for attendees looking to stay ahead of trends and innovations shaping the industry.”
Sessions include
- Trend Forum & Innovation Insights – Performance Materials for Winter 2026 – Wed., Nov. 20 | 9:45 AM – 10:30 AM
Discover the top innovations in performance materials for the upcoming Winter 2026 season. With over 1,000 fabrics submitted for evaluation, a jury reviewed them over multiple days. Hear from the head judge on the key insights and trends that emerged from this extensive review process.
- Performance Colors Update for Summer 2026 & Kickoff for Winter 26/27 – Wed., Nov. 20 | 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
Nora Kuehner, a renowned independent fashion and design consultant, will provide in-depth look at color trends. Starting with Summer 2026 and its vibrant seasonal theme ‘ERUPTION,’ Nora will also reveal the color landscape for Winter 2026/2027.
- Circularity in Stretch Fiber – Wed., Nov. 20 | 12:30 PM – 1:15 PM
David Godshall, PhD, senior R&D scientist with The LYCRA Company, will delve into innovations in spandex recycling technologies and the company’s commitment to circularity. Learn how recycled LYCRA fibers are being developed from end-of-life stretch fabrics.
- Space-Age Textiles: Innovations for Astronauts and Earthlings – Wed., Nov. 20 | 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM
Experts from Columbia Sportswear and NASA will discuss cutting-edge research in smart materials and thermal insulation that not only address the challenges of space travel but also have practical .
- Color Sorts: A Model to Save a Trillion Liters of Water – Wed., November 20 | 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Join Baber Iftikhar, owner of Via Jones, as he showcases a revolutionary approach to upcycling cutting room waste cotton, sorted by color, to create everyday clothing without the need for virgin cotton or dyeing.
In addition to the above sessions, attendees will also have access to more Expert Talks sessions on other topics, including magnesium-based textile finishing (TextiMag), combatting microfiber pollution and the critical importance of color acuity in textile production, among other areas.
To register for the event, click here.
