Kingpins New York 2026: Denim Industry Comes Together at Pier 36Kingpins New York 2026: Denim Industry Comes Together at Pier 36Kingpins New York 2026: Denim Industry Comes Together at Pier 36

Kingpins New York 2026: Denim Industry Comes Together at Pier 36

Kingpins New York took over Pier 36 / Basketball City on July 22–23, bringing together the brands, mills, manufacturers and designers shaping the future of denim.

The event welcomed a strong mix of returning attendees and new companies, reinforcing Kingpins’ role as a key meeting point for the global denim industry.

Kingpins CEO Vivian Wang described the event as more of a “reunion” than a traditional trade show, highlighting the importance of face-to-face conversations and collaboration within the denim community.

More Than 70 Exhibitors and Two Mini Shows

Despite severe thunderstorms causing travel delays across the US, all exhibitors made it to the event. The show featured 71 booths and two specialist mini shows.

-Jeanius Hub showcased denim innovation from Lab Denim, Make the Dot, Unspun and WOPTAG.

-Made in Japan highlighted craftsmanship and precision from Ideablue, ICE, Japan Delivery Service and Rainbow Textiles.

Denim Meets Art and Innovation

Three standout installations transformed the show floor into an interactive creative space.

Anniversary d.d.p. by Andrew Berul recreated the artist’s studio environment, focusing on ritual, isolation and creative practice.

Camo For Peace, presented by Tonello and Transnomadica, reworked vintage camouflage garments from an archive of nearly 15,000 pieces. Garments were repaired, redyed and given new life using Tonello’s finishing technology.

148 Lab, Cocinado en Medellín explored early-2000s DIY denim culture through an interactive “denim kitchen,” culminating in a collaborative artwork destined for auction.

Sustainability, Emerging Designers and Community

Kingpins New York also placed a strong focus on sustainability and emerging talent.

The Community Tapestry, created by Sarab NYC’s Mahmoud the Weaver, transformed textile waste from 10 denim exhibitors into one-of-a-kind handwoven pieces. Half of all sales supported FABSCRAP NYC.

The Future Denim Makers Lab, presented by Oak & Acorn with Marist University and Artmill, challenged emerging designers to reinvent the Signature Jumpsuit as a future interpretation of American workwear.

The Lildenim Styling Session brought together four independent New York labels — General Experiment, Cleioner, Gekka and Greco — to demonstrate the potential of creative collaboration.

Celebrating Denim’s Legacy

The event also honoured Adriano Goldschmied, a major figure in the denim industry. An installation curated by Christine Rucci, together with Glenda and Marta Goldschmied, celebrated his life, influence and contribution to denim.

A Look at the Future of Denim

Kingpins New York 2026 highlighted where denim is heading: innovation, sustainability, craftsmanship, collaboration and creative experimentation. With established global brands alongside emerging designers, mills and makers, the event demonstrated that the future of denim is being shaped through both new technology and strong industry connections.