Thursday, 7 May 2026
What kind of label am I building and how do I make money with it?
Before the first collection comes a viable business model. In this module, you lay the strategic foundation for your label and make the decisions that will shape everything else down the line.
Building a label means being a designer, entrepreneur, communicator and strategist, all at once. The FABRIC Academy supports you with a structured programme that covers every key aspect of building a label, taught by leading experts from the industry.
A development programme for FABRIC Members
Across eight modules, we guide you from business idea to successful market entry. Each module combines expert input with hands-on workshops, practical tools and direct exchange within the FABRIC Community. The format is intentionally compact: one module per month, clearly focused and ready to apply right away.
Dates: May to December 2026, every first Thursday of the month.
Die 8 Module im Überblick
- Module 1: Business Model & Strategy
- Module 2: Brand Identity & Communication
Thursday, 4 June 2026
Who am I as a brand and how do I communicate it?
A strong brand is more than a logo. It's the consistent translation of your design vision into language, imagery and experience. In this module, you develop a brand identity that is recognisable, credible and built to last. - Module 3: Costing & Pricing
Thursday, 2 July 2026
What do I need to charge to be profitable?
Many labels don't fail because of the idea they fail because of the maths. This module puts an end to gut-feeling pricing and gives you the tools for professional, profitable price-setting. - Module 4: Sourcing & Production
Thursday, 6 August 2026
Where do I source materials and how do I produce?
Good sourcing and reliable production are the backbone of every label. In this module, you learn how to find materials and production partners, build strong relationships and manage your production professionally. - Module 5: Marketing & Sales
Thursday, 3 September 2026
How do I reach my customers and how do I sell?
A beautiful collection doesn't sell itself. In this module, you develop a marketing and sales strategy that fits your label and delivers measurable results. - Module 6: Legal & Finance
Thursday, 1 October 2026
What do I need to know legally and financially?
Legal and financial groundwork is easy to put off – but indispensable for a professional label. In this module, we create clarity, answer your specific questions and give you the confidence you need for the day-to-day. - Module 7: Sustainability & Circularity
Thursday, 5 November 2026
How do I build a truly sustainable label?
Sustainability isn't a marketing tool – it's a design stance, and increasingly a regulatory reality. This module introduces you to the principles of future-proof design and prepares you for the legal requirements ahead. - Module 8: Go-to-Market & PR
Thursday, 3 December 2026
How do I launch my collection successfully?
A strong launch makes all the difference for a new collection. In this final module, you bring everything together and develop a concrete strategy for your market entry.
Upcoming Events
FABRIC Academy
Exclusive for Members: The FABRIC Academy gives you the knowledge and tools you need to thrive as a designer and founder, from your first idea to a profitable label.
FABRIC Upcycling Contest
At the FABRIC Upcycling Contest, you turn discarded materials into your own statement, with professional styling, your own model and a fashion show in the heart of Hamburg. Apply now!
FABRIC Fashion Review Maison Margiela
Maison Margiela, a defining influence on the fashion world to this day. Fashion journalist Antonia Valentina Herbort gives an insight into the history and influence of the house. First FABRIC Fashion Review in MK&G.
FABRIC Upcycling Contest - das Finale
Be part of the jury! Experience the looks of our upcycling contest and vote for your personal favourite outfit.
Recycling-Workshop mit I WEAR TRASH
Bring small items and discarded tops and use them to create bag charms and pieces that you'll love wearing again. Trashy DIY as a sign against fast fashion.
Pop-Up-Shop: Mäson Zögern
New designs are created from vintage fabrics with a history. Fashion that gains significance through handcraft and cannot be pigeonholed.
FABRIC Nights: Reading with Antonia
Eine interdisziplinäre Lesung, die zeigt, dass Kleidung mehr ist als Mode – nämlich gelebte Geschichte, erlebbar als moderiertes Live-Format aus Gespräch, Lesung und Fotografie.
Algengarn Workshop mit AMAVSS* Material Lab
Alicia Valdés Selbach gives an insight into the production of a biodegradable algae-based yarn and experimental processes between textiles, biomaterials and design.
Needle Club July
The creative meet-up for textile handcraft with Maya from "awaredress"!
We meet every first Tuesday of the month at FABRIC to mend clothes, knit, embroider or crochet together.