Navigating Fashion Industry Requirements, Compliance & Trends

The fashion and apparel industry is evolving faster than ever. Supply chains stretch across continents, consumers demand speed and transparency, and sustainability is no longer optional. Brands must use fashion sustainability software to reduce impact and improve compliance. They also need PLM software for fashion to streamline processes and increase visibility.

At DeSL, we believe collaboration is just as important as technology. We take an active role in fashion industry associations and attend global fashion events. We also support thought leadership across the apparel and footwear community. By staying engaged, we ensure our solutions align with the challenges brands face around industry requirements, compliance regulations and trends.

Building Industry Connections Through AAPN

DeSL is a proud member of the Americas Apparel Producers Network (AAPN). (aapnetwork.net). This organization brings together brands, mills, manufacturers, and supply chain partners in one collaborative forum.

Earlier this year, DeSL sponsored the 2025 pro:Americas Annual Conference, a leading apparel conference. We also moderated a panel on digital product creation (DPC) with leaders from Patagonia and Fabletics. The discussion explored how trends with digital solutions accelerate product development, streamline digital color approvals, and reduce environmental impact.

By embracing DPC, brands gain agility, improve product adoption rates, and advance sustainability commitments. This work highlights how technology and collaboration move the fashion industry forward.

Driving Policy Requirements and Sustainability Through AAFA

DeSL is also an active member of the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA). (aafaglobal.org) By joining the Environmental Committee, we stay current on regulatory updates and compliance standards. We also track new sustainability requirements that affect the apparel and footwear supply chain.

This involvement directly fuels innovation in our software. For example, our focus on the digital product passport reflects industry-wide efforts to improve traceability and transparency. By adding these features to our solutions, DeSL helps brands stay compliant with industry standards. We also support them in reaching sustainability goals and building consumer trust.

Supporting the UK Fashion Market with ASBCI

Additionally, DeSL serves as an executive committee member of the Association of Suppliers to the British Clothing Industry (ASBCI). (asbci.co.uk) This organization is a hub for knowledge sharing and collaboration within the UK market.

Our role ensures we stay connected to the latest fashion & retail challenges and opportunities. But more importantly, it reflects our commitment to giving back to the industry. By supporting ASBCI, we help build a platform for collaboration in the fashion industry. This allows businesses to share best practices and work together on key challenges.

Connecting Globally Through Industry Conferences

Alongside association memberships, DeSL maintains a strong presence at international conferences that shape the future of fashion. These global fashion events allow us to both share expertise and learn from industry leaders.

PI Apparel. (apparel.pi.tv) DeSL has long sponsored PI Apparel events worldwide. At the upcoming PI Apparel West Coast, we will take part in discussions on Artificial Intelligence. We will also join conversations on digital product creation (DPC), sustainability, and compliance. These topics are changing the way fashion innovation works. With PLM software for fashion as the single source of truth, it is important to understand where the industry is heading.
Sourcing Journal. (sourcingjournal.com) We also attend Sourcing Journal’s events, which provide forward-looking education for the fashion industry. These events create valuable opportunities to collaborate with supply chain leaders.
National Retail Federation (NRF) (nrf.com) allows DeSL to be in the same room with one of the largest gatherings of fashion retail executives. Discussions surround industry requirements for technology, compliance with current regulations, and trends for the future. This environment offers our team the chance to provide expert advice and demonstrate our software, but more importantly it offers the opportunity to learn from the attendees.

By engaging at these events, DeSL ensures our solutions reflect the industry’s most urgent needs.

Why Industry Engagement Matters

For DeSL, being active in fashion industry associations and attending apparel and footwear conferences goes beyond networking. It’s about listening, learning, and leading.

Through our global involvement, we:

Stay ahead of regulatory changes and compliance requirements.
Gain insight into how brands address sustainability, transparency, and digital transformation.
Ensure our fashion sustainability software and PLM solutions meet evolving needs.
Contribute to shaping the future of the apparel and footwear supply chain.

This ongoing engagement strengthens our ability to deliver procurement visibility, product innovation, and sustainable practices for fashion brands worldwide.

Looking Ahead

The fashion industry is in a period of rapid change. Consumer demand for faster, more transparent supply chains are reshaping how brands operate. By staying involved in global fashion events and associations, DeSL remains at the forefront of these conversations.

Our mission is clear: to help brands innovate, stay compliant, and achieve long-term success through collaboration and technology. With our PLM software for fashion, we combine industry insight with digital transformation to move the industry forward.

At DeSL, we believe collaboration is the foundation of progress. We are proud to stand alongside industry leaders and play an active role in shaping the future of global fashion.

👉 Want to learn more about how DeSL can support your business with PLM and Digital Transformation?