Cannes, 26 October 2026 – The LYCRA Company, a global leader in the development of innovative and sustainable fibres and technology solutions for the apparel industry, is once again confirming its role as official partner of MarediModa 2026, the leading European trade show dedicated to fabrics for beachwear, lingerie and athleisure, taking place in Cannes from 27 to 29 October.

Eighty years of the bikini and the LYCRA® fibre revolution

The 2026 edition of MarediModa coincides with a landmark anniversary: the 80th anniversary of the bikini. Over the decades, this iconic garment has evolved from a simple fashion item into a global symbol of emancipation, style and cultural freedom, becoming one of the most recognisable icons of contemporary beach culture. The LYCRA Company has played a leading role in this evolution since the 1960s, driving a true revolution in beachwear. The introduction of LYCRA® fibre made it possible to move away from the rigid, uncomfortable fabrics of the past, forever redefining durability, fit, support and freedom of movement.

The tribute to the bikini and to the technological innovations pioneered by The LYCRA Company lies at the heart of the Designed to move. Built to last project, created for MarediModa 2026 in collaboration with Carvico and Jersey Lomellina, leading manufacturers of premium stretch fabrics and long-standing partners of the LYCRA® brand.

The exhibition unfolds across the LYCRA® Brand Lounge and the Carvico and Jersey Lomellina stand, where a cocktail event will take place at 6:00 pm on the opening evening of the trade show.

The garment display takes the form of a multi-location installation celebrating eight decades of style through a curated selection of bikinis, from the 1960s to the present day, each reflecting the design, aesthetic codes and cultural influences of its time.

All the bikinis featured in the Designed to move. Built to last project are made with innovative Carvico and Jersey Lomellina fabrics enhanced by an extraordinary innovation: iconic LYCRA XTRA LIFE® fibre. Recognised by the industry as a best-in-class solution for swimwear, thanks to its resistance to the damaging effects of chlorine, heat, sun lotions and UV rays that can be up to ten times greater, LYCRA XTRA LIFE® fibre helps create swimwear that lasts longer, without compromising on quality, comfort, fit or performance.

Accompanying the bikini exhibition is a series of striking original illustrations created by Italian artist Ileana Lucia Ferri, who has captured the distinctive features of each era, bringing fashion, visual culture and textile innovation into dialogue. The illustrations show how swimwear has evolved over time alongside materials, silhouettes and the needs of those who wear it.

Durability as an art form: Designed to move. Built to last – a spectacular live event

On the opening evening of the trade show, (Oct. 28th at 6.00 p.m.) The LYCRA Company, in collaboration with Carvico and Jersey Lomellina, will present a spectacular show-event. The performance will take place in a completely redesigned exhibition area between the LYCRA® Brand Lounge and the Carvico and Jersey Lomellina stand, celebrating 80 years of the bikini and the value of durability.

The show will weave together live music, visual memories and textile innovation to create a unique artistic and emotional experience. A live orchestra will reinterpret some of the most iconic songs and film soundtracks from the past eight decades, while interactive LED walls will display projections and images tracing the revolutionary evolution of the bikini from the 1960s to today.

A show bringing together music, fashion and technology to demonstrate that durability – in garments as in art – is the true value that stands the test of time.

“Celebrating 80 years of the bikini at MarediModa alongside outstanding partners such as Carvico and Jersey Lomellina is an extraordinary opportunity to reaffirm our vision for the future of beachwear,” said Arnaud Ruffin, Vice President Brands & Retail Business at The LYCRA Company. “In an ever-evolving industry, we firmly believe that durability is the most authentic and tangible expression of sustainability. Through the use of LYCRA XTRA LIFE® fibre, we offer the market solutions that last longer while maintaining their benefits in terms of fit and comfort.”

The LYCRA Company

The LYCRA Company innovates and manufactures fibres and technology solutions for the apparel and personal care industries. It owns the LYCRA®, LYCRA HyFit®, LYCRA® T400®, COOLMAX®, THERMOLITE®, ELASPAN®, SUPPLEX® and TACTEL® brands.

Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, USA, The LYCRA Company is recognised worldwide for the high quality of its products, technical expertise and marketing support. The company focuses on creating value for its customers by developing unique innovations designed to meet consumer needs for comfort and lasting performance.

For more information, visit lycra.com.

LYCRA® is a registered trademark of The LYCRA Company.