The Florentine Crossroads of Intimacy: Immagine Italia & Co. 2026 Sets the Stage for the Future of Lingerie and Fashion
From the 14th to the 16th of February 2026, the historic Renaissance fortress of the Fortezza da Basso in Florence, Italy, will cease to be a mere monument and transform into the pulsating heart of the global intimate apparel industry. For three days, the venue will host the 19th edition of Immagine Italia & Co. , Italy’s premier international trade fair dedicated to lingerie, homewear, beachwear, fabrics, and fashion accessories . As the first major international appointment of the year for the sector, this event is not just a marketplace; it is a declaration of trends, a hub for sustainable innovation, and a critical barometer for the Autumn/Winter 2026-2027 season .
In an era where the fashion industry is grappling with rapid change, economic uncertainty, and a pressing demand for ethical production, Immagine Italia & Co. returns to consolidate its leadership. It offers a privileged observatory on a sector that is surprisingly moving against the trend, proving that underwear is no longer just a basic necessity but a profound expression of personal identity, comfort, and style . This article delves deep into the significance of the 2026 fair, exploring its exhibition landscape, its strategic importance for global buyers, its commitment to sustainability, and its role as a cultural and economic engine for Florence and the international fashion community.
The choice of venue is intrinsically linked to the identity of the fair. The Fortezza da Basso, a 16th-century architectural marvel built by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger for the Medici family, provides a dramatic and inspiring backdrop for the display of the most delicate and innovative textiles. Its massive stone walls and sprawling pavilions create a unique contrast with the softness and sensuality of the lingerie on display, symbolizing the enduring strength and fragility inherent in the world of fashion .
For the 2026 edition, the Fortezza will open its gates to an expected crowd of international professionals, including top-tier buyers, wholesalers, manufacturers, corporate decision-makers, marketing professionals, and the fashion media . The atmosphere within the pavilions is expected to be one of focused energy, where business negotiations blend with creative inspiration. Organizers anticipate a significant international presence, with the fair serving as a crucial platform for Italian excellence to meet the demands of the global market.
While “lingerie” is often the headline grabber, Immagine Italia & Co. casts a much wider net. The fair is organized to provide a comprehensive overview of the intimate and home lifestyle sectors. Visitors can expect to find dedicated areas showcasing:
This holistic approach ensures that the fair remains a one-stop destination for professionals looking to source complete collections and understand the interconnectedness of these lifestyle categories .
Reaching its 19th edition is a testament to the fair’s resilience and relevance. Over the years, Immagine Italia & Co., organized by Underbeach Srl, has successfully navigated the volatile waters of the fashion industry to become the benchmark event in Italy . Its longevity is built on a reputation for quality, curation, and its unique ability to anticipate market shifts.
The February 2026 event promises to build on this legacy. According to industry reports, the response from the international community has been overwhelmingly positive. To date, over 150 brands from across the globe have registered to exhibit, a number that signals a robust and growing interest in the sector. This diverse participation ensures that attendees are exposed to a wide spectrum of aesthetics, from the classic elegance of Italian craftsmanship to bold, contemporary designs from emerging international talents .
Perhaps the most anticipated innovation for the 2026 edition is the introduction of a dedicated “Green Area.” In an industry increasingly under scrutiny for its environmental impact, Immagine Italia & Co. is taking a proactive stance. This special section is designed to be more than just an exhibition space; it is intended as a hub for dialogue and discovery focused on the future of sustainable fashion .
The Green Area will shine a spotlight on the “virtuous production chain,” featuring companies and designers who are pioneering responsible and transparent practices. Visitors to this section can expect to find:
By creating a dedicated space for sustainability, the fair aims to facilitate connections between eco-conscious buyers and innovative suppliers, helping to accelerate the adoption of green practices across the entire sector . This initiative reflects a broader understanding that luxury and sustainability are no longer mutually exclusive but are increasingly intertwined in the eyes of the modern consumer.
Immagine Italia & Co. derives its strength not only from its exhibitors but from its carefully cultivated network of international buyers. The 2026 edition is strategically leveraging key partnerships to ensure a rich and diverse attendance, turning Florence into a true crossroads of global commerce.
The support of the Italian Trade Agency (ICE) remains fundamental to the fair’s internationalization strategy . ICE’s mandate is to promote the internationalization of Italian companies, and its collaboration with Immagine Italia & Co. is a prime example of this mission in action. For the February event, ICE’s backing is instrumental in attracting a significant number of high-profile buyers from non-European markets. This includes focused efforts to bring delegations from dynamic and growing economies, opening up new avenues for Italian and European exhibitors .
In an increasingly multipolar world, understanding emerging markets is key. The fair’s partnership with Fashion Sfera is specifically designed to tap into the potential of the CIS countries (Commonwealth of Independent States). Thanks to this collaboration, the 2026 edition anticipates significant purchasing delegations from nations such as Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan . This targeted outreach ensures that exhibitors have the opportunity to connect with buyers from regions showing a strong appetite for premium European fashion.
While expanding its global reach, the fair remains deeply rooted in its continental strengths. Organizers have confirmed the eagerly awaited presence of key players from Germany, Spain, and France. These nations represent some of the main reference markets for premium lingerie and homewear, and their strong attendance is a reliable indicator of the fair’s health and its ability to serve the core of the European fashion industry .
Immagine Italia & Co. does not exist in a vacuum. It is part of a vibrant, months-long season of international trade events that transform Florence into a mandatory destination for professionals across multiple creative industries. For visitors arriving in February, the city is buzzing with the energy of concurrent and complementary events.
Just one week before the lingerie fair, from February 7 to 9, the Fortezza da Basso hosts Pitti Immagine Taste 19, the prestigious fair dedicated to artisanal food and fine beverages. Under the theme “True Food,” Taste explores the diversity of the Italian and international culinary landscape, offering a sensory prelude to the textile wonders of Immagine Italia & Co. .
Later in the month, from February 20 to 22, the same venue will welcome Danzainfiera 20, a cornerstone event for the global dance community. This fair brings together dancers, teachers, and companies from around the world, specializing in everything from classical ballet to hip-hop and tango .
This dense calendar of events means that for the entire month of February, Florence is filled with a cosmopolitan mix of foodies, dancers, and fashion professionals. This creates a unique synergy, filling the city’s hotels, restaurants, and historic cafes with a creative and commercial vibrancy that is palpable. For attendees of Immagine Italia & Co., this context adds another layer of appeal, offering ample opportunities for networking and cultural enrichment beyond the fair’s walls .
At its core, Immagine Italia & Co. is a forecasting engine. Its primary function is to present the upcoming Autumn/Winter 2026-2027 collections, offering buyers their first, crucial look at the trends that will dominate stores in the coming year .
While the full picture will only be revealed on the show floor, industry analysts and the fair’s own focus areas suggest several key themes will be prominent:
The fair’s role is to curate these diverse trends, presenting them in a cohesive manner that allows buyers to make informed decisions. As Raffaella Petrossi, General Manager of Underbeach, aptly stated, the event is designed to “functionally support the decision-making processes of purchasing professionals,” serving not just as a market, but as a “privileged observatory” for the future of the sector .
For those planning to attend the 19th Immagine Italia & Co., the Fortezza da Basso is well-equipped to host international visitors. Located on the edge of Florence’s historic center, the venue is easily accessible by public transport, taxi, or on foot from most central hotels.
Dates and Times:
The fair will be open from Saturday, February 14th, to Monday, February 16th, 2026. Opening hours are typically from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, though it is always advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information regarding entry policies for trade professionals .
Registration:
As a trade-only event, Immagine Italia & Co. requires professional accreditation. Attendees are strongly encouraged to register online in advance to avoid queues and guarantee their entry. On-site registration will be available for verified professionals .
Services:
The Fortezza da Basso offers a range of services tailored to the needs of international business visitors. These include bag drops, cloakrooms, information points, and areas for networking and relaxation. Given the late winter timing, attendees should be prepared for potentially chilly and rainy weather in Florence, making comfortable business attire with a warm coat a wise choice.
As the fashion world turns its eyes towards Florence in February 2026, Immagine Italia & Co. stands ready to deliver an edition rich with innovation, business, and beauty. It is a testament to the enduring power of specialized trade fairs in a digital age. While online platforms offer convenience, they cannot replicate the tactile experience of feeling a luxurious fabric, the nuanced conversation over a contract, or the spontaneous inspiration sparked by a chance encounter in a Renaissance fortress.
For three days, the Fortezza da Basso will be the undisputed capital of the intimate apparel world. From the much-anticipated Green Area, charting a course towards a more sustainable future, to the diverse delegations of buyers arriving from the CIS countries, Europe, and beyond, the 19th edition promises to be a true melting pot of global fashion . It will be a place where the legacy of Italian craftsmanship meets the demands of a rapidly evolving global market, and where the foundations are laid for the intimate wardrobes of the Autumn/Winter 2026-2027 season. For anyone with a stake in the world of lingerie, fabrics, and fashion, Florence in February is not just an option; it is a destination.
Italian 
Arabic 