Indonesia Fashion Week 2026 to Showcase North Sumatra's 'Ulos Simetria'

Indonesia Fashion Week 2026 is set to captivate audiences with its 14th iteration, centered around the theme "Ulos Simetria." This theme draws deep inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of North Sumatra, aiming to elevate traditional Indonesian textiles, particularly the intricate ulos fabric, into the realm of contemporary and global fashion.

The event transcends a mere showcase of designer collections. It is designed as a multisensory experience, fostering cross-industry collaborations and creating new opportunities for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and creative economy players. "Through this theme, APPMI wants to show that Indonesian traditional fabrics have ample room to continue evolving with the times. Ulos is positioned not just as a cultural symbol, but also as a source of inspiration capable of competing on the global fashion stage through design innovation, techniques, and the exploration of modern silhouettes," stated Poppy Dharsono, Chairperson of APPMI and President of Indonesia Fashion Week.

For the first time, North Sumatra is the Official Theme province, meaning the entire event will spotlight the cultural identity, textile wealth, tourism, and creative economy potential of the region. This focus is expected to broaden opportunities for ulos artisans, local designers, and the tourism sector of North Sumatra, introducing the stories, philosophies, and cultural transformations integral to the Batak community's identity to a national and international audience.

Having consistently grown over more than a decade, Indonesia Fashion Week has become a vital platform for the Indonesian fashion industry. It serves as a hub connecting designers, MSMEs, academics, government bodies, investors, buyers, media, and creative communities, acting as a significant driver for the national fashion industry's development and a breeding ground for new Indonesian talent.