Trend Forum & Focus Topic Insights

Alexa Dehmel is an international Designer and Strategic Advisor for luxury & performance sportswear, functional textiles and Future Concepts for the Textile Industry,  trusted by 60+ global brands. With 25+ years across sportswear, outdoor and performance markets, she transforms material innovation into market leadership, responsible design and measurable value creation, working across Europe, the U.S. and Asia.

For 17+ years, she serves as Head Judge of bi-annual Forum jurys and Functional Fabric Curator, curating the TREND FORUM and Forum Areas, delivering Forum Insights on stage at PERFORMANCE DAYS Munich, the FUNCTIONAL FABRIC FAIR powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS (Portland, New York, Orlando) and FUNCTIONAL TEXTILES by Performance Days in Shanghai.

Deeply rooted in Europe and globally connected, she translates international market insight into strategic value and bridges brands with relevant sourcing ecosystems.

As a fashion designer and researcher, Anna Schuster brings extensive experience in sustainability and innovation within the fashion and workwear industry, with a focus on footwear and apparel. She has held key positions driving sustainable transformation and material innovation across global fashion brands.

In her current role as Head of Sustainability at PERFORMANCE DAYS, Anna leads initiatives that foster innovation and sustainability within the performance textiles sector. She collaborates with industry partners, research institutes, and organizations to accelerate the shift toward a circular and responsible fashion industry.

Alongside her professional work, Anna also teaches upcycling and sustainability, sharing her knowledge to inspire the next generation of designers and changemakers.

Anna holds a Master’s degree in Fashion Futures from the London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London, and is known for her critical and forward-thinking approach to shaping the future of fashion.