Interstoff Asia Essential Spring, Hong Kong's prime sourcing ground for fashion, functional and eco textiles, kicks off next week from 16 - 18 March 2011. The three day trade fair opens with a series of inspirational and informative value added events together with some 210 exhibitors showcasing their latest fabrics and textile related collections in Halls 1 D and E at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Some of the exhibitors are classified into country / region pavilions representing Elite China, Fine Japan, Amazing Taiwan, and Premium Korea. Among the participating suppliers in these areas are: Toray and Teijin from Japan, Wujiang Deyi Fashions Cloths Co Ltd and Tongling Worldbest Linen & Ramie Textile Co Ltd from China, Flourish Textile Co Ltd from Taiwan, Honway Asia Limited and Yee Fung Hong Ltd from Hong Kong, Quantum Energy Co Ltd from Korea. Buyers will find a variety of products from wide range knitted fabrics and functional materials to eco button and embroideries.

The Green Zone groups eco suppliers and certifiers together. Leading eco certifiers GOTS, IMO, Control Union and OneCert are among the participants in this special zone

In addition to the range of products offered, several events are specifically organised to complement and highlight exhibitors' products. One of these features is a new collaboration with Raffles International College Hong Kong, where 21 design students have worked with several exhibitors to create 60 pieces that will be paraded during the 'Fabrics to Fashion Walk'. ''Our students are international, so each design has a unique story that gives people a different impression for every collection,'' said Mr Eric Ho, Director for the design school.

He further observed: ''Interstoff Asia Essential has given our students a great opportunity to get hands on experience in a real working environment. This will help them understand the textile and garment industry and show them what it takes to be in this competitive business.''

Ms Wendy Wen, Director, Trade Fairs for Messe Frankfurt HK Ltd, believes the partnership is a strong focal point at the spring fair: ''We are very excited about this new affiliation - we feel that it's important to support design talent especially here in Asia. We are certain that attendees will enjoy the show and be inspired by the students' creativity.'' From the 60 pieces, 16 have been pre-selected by world renowned trend forecasters, NellyRodi Agency, based in Paris, France, for display at the Interstoff Directions trend forum. The outfits and trend forum offer a glimpse into what fabrics, colours and textures will be in style for Spring/Summer 2012 (SS12). Models will also be at hand at participating exhibitors booths to draw attention to the special student design collections.