Leathers, synthetics, components and accessories for spring/summer 2008 will be presented and the key themes are likely to be cold, pale, and dazzling colours; aromatic deep tones; sour fresh hues and spiced dry colours.

Soft, glossy leather will be a key product, made with irregular glass-like coats and makeshift-looking paints. Metallic looks will gain a soft feel as a result of elaborate finishing methods. 

As seen at Anteprima held in early March in Milan, trends are focusing on ‘an end of the vintage era’. Patent leather, laminated leather and pearly looks will continue to dominate and all natural leathers, drummed finishes and conspicuous grains such as deer leather have proved particularly popular.

Women’s shoes for summer 2008 will be largely square-toed and will feature decorated, exaggerated heels. Men’s shoes will have aggressive-looking and over-decorated uppers and soles with conspicuous welts. Bags are increasingly large in size and made with softer materials and small accessories such as precious metals and wood will continue to play an important role.

Training courses on materials and finishing methods will again take place at the event. The new ‘Italian Leather’ certification will officially launch at the fair, as well as a new body called ‘Poli Conciari’ (Tanning Districts) which was recently established to reaffirm the synergy between the tanning districts and their tanners.