The IFAB fairgrounds in Albacete have been transformed into a significant fashion runway for the first time, hosting the XI edition of AB Fashion. The event was attended by Dani Sancha, the Diputado de Juventud y Deportes (Deputy for Youth and Sports), who expressed support for the project led by organiser Lola Muñoz.
Originally scheduled for an earlier date, the event was postponed due to three days of official mourning following a tragic train accident in Urda on 28 October. During the event, Muñoz paid tribute to the victims and their families, stating, “this edition is dedicated to them, with all respect and affection.” Sancha conveyed condolences and solidarity on behalf of the Diputación.
In his remarks to the media, Sancha congratulated Muñoz and her team for their continuous efforts in establishing AB Fashion as a key event in Castilla-La Mancha's fashion calendar, asserting that it has positioned the region and province at the forefront of fashion. He also acknowledged the contributions of those behind the scenes, including model Cristina Landete and artist Santi Flores, who were prominent at the event.
This edition was notable for its new venue, with the IFAB fully prepared to host such a large-scale event. Sancha described it as the perfect showcase for fashion in Castilla-La Mancha and, indeed, Spain, with nearly 1,000 attendees enjoying the experience. This change reflects a commitment to making fashion accessible to the public and creating a shared cultural experience.
Sancha emphasised that while the event began as a fashion show, it has evolved into an inclusive project that represents a modern, creative, and diverse province, enriching the cultural offerings with high-quality initiatives. This year featured eight designers showcasing their collections, highlighting the diversity and evolution of fashion design: María Lafuente with ‘Impronta’; Carmen Alba with ‘Manos al aire’; Peletería Gabriel with ‘A visual dialogue between legacy and modernity’; Maison Mesa with ‘The Beautiful Hours’; Nouménico with ‘Impulso’; Javier de la Fuente with ‘Couturisme’; Félix Ramiro with ‘College’; and Lola Muñoz with ‘Materia’.
Sancha also underscored the significance of public-private collaboration in driving projects that add value, strengthen the productive fabric, and enhance Albacete's position in sectors where it has much to contribute. The impact of AB Fashion extends beyond the runway, connecting professionals and businesses related to fashion, image, production, communication, commerce, and services. In Castilla-La Mancha, the sector generates over 7,000 jobs and more than €800 million in revenue, contributing approximately 3% to the national GDP.
The event provides opportunities for established and emerging designers to showcase their work, build professional networks, and reach new audiences. Sancha reiterated the Diputación de Albacete's commitment to supporting the sector and projects that broaden and enrich opportunities for the region and its people.
This XI edition featured a 44-metre runway with 46 models (31 women and 15 men) and demonstrated the event's ability to reinvent itself and captivate audiences, placing Albacete firmly on the national fashion map.
