A trunk show is an event in which vendors present merchandise directly to store personnel or customers at a retail location or another venue such as a hotel room. The term "trunk show" is derived from the common practice of merchandise being transported to these events in trunks. Trunk shows may be open to the general public and advertised in the mass media or may be confined to special customers or those on a mailing list.
In the bridal industry, trunk shows are particularly popular from January to May because the bride can view more designers collections than in store. During a wedding dress trunk show, a bridal salon has a more complete or full range of gown samples on hand from a specific bridal designer.
A typical trunk show is when the fashion designer or vendor brings their line to a boutique for a special in-shop showing for the store’s customers. Generally, accessories vendors bring stock pieces they can sell during the event while clothing vendors bring samples, take orders, and ship the items later. Trunk shows are beneficial for both the vendor and the retailer because the vendor can showcase their merchandise, make some money, and get direct feedback from customers at the same time, while the retailer can offer a much bigger selection and more options for their customers than on a regular day.
In summary, a trunk show is an event where vendors present their merchandise directly to store personnel or customers at a retail location or another venue, such as a hotel room, and it is particularly popular in the bridal industry. During a trunk show, a vendor can showcase their merchandise, take orders, and get direct feedback from customers, while the retailer can offer a much bigger selection and more options for their customers than on a regular day.
