Mains d’Avenir 2026: Three Days at the Heart of Fashion and Decorative Arts Crafts

Mains d’Avenir

How does exceptional craftsmanship come to life? How does an embroidery design take shape, a hat find its form, or a fashion jewel reveal its unique character? From June 5 to 7, 2026, Le 19M will answer these questions through the fourth edition of Mains d’Avenir. This event entirely focuses on discovering the crafts of fashion and decorative arts.

For three days, this unique venue dedicated to creativity and transmission will open its doors to visitors, students, families, enthusiasts, and curious minds. Indeed, all are eager to explore the behind-the-scenes world of craftsmanship. Through encounters, demonstrations, and discussions with artisans, attendees will gain insight into the expertise that continues to shape some of the most remarkable creations in fashion and design. Moreover, these exchanges will offer a deeper understanding of the skills, techniques, and dedication behind each craft. Finally, the event will celebrate the transmission of knowledge while inspiring future generations to discover these exceptional professions.

The program includes meetings with artisans, live demonstrations, hands-on workshops, discussions about professional pathways, and panel talks moderated by journalists from Le Monde. It is a rare opportunity to meet the women and men who keep these exceptional crafts alive. In addition, Mains d’Avenir provides visitors with a special chance to see artisans at work.

Meeting the Artisans of Le 19M

Throughout the event, dedicated stands will showcase the expertise of the Resident Houses of Le 19M. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage directly with artisans. They will also learn about their careers and discover the skills required to practice their craft. In addition, guests can explore the many pathways leading to these professions. Moreover, Mains d’Avenir fosters connections between young talent and professionals in the world of craft.

Through the métiers represented by Atelier Montex, Desrues, ERES, Goossens, Lemarié and Atelier Lognon, Lesage, Maison Michel, Massaro, and Paloma, visitors will step behind the scenes of creation. Artisans will showcase embroidery, millinery, fashion floristry, shoemaking, fashion jewelry, featherwork and ornamentation, corsetry, tailoring, and couture. They will also demonstrate these crafts themselves.

Exploring Educational Pathways and Career Opportunities

Because transmission lies at the heart of Le 19M’s mission, a dedicated information and guidance area will allow visitors to meet representatives from educational institutions. Moreover, guests can also meet professionals from the world of craftsmanship.

Additionally, partner schools and training centers will present specialized programs, offering a concrete overview of career opportunities within the sector. Participating institutions include the Académie des Métiers d’Art, the AICP (Académie Internationale de Coupe de Paris), École Boulle, the Compagnons du Devoir, Lycée des Métiers La Source, Lycée Octave Feuillet, and École Lesage.

Designed as a true moment of transmission, these three days aim to inspire new vocations, support educational choices, and encourage professional retraining.

Learning the Gestures of Craftsmanship

The event will also feature a wide range of free introductory workshops, allowing visitors to experience the techniques that define these exceptional crafts firsthand. Indeed, Mains d’Avenir offers hands-on opportunities for all guests to try their skills.

Guided by artisans from Lesage, Atelier Montex, Lemarié, and Paloma, participants will discover the precision, patience, and creativity required to master these traditional skills.

A Dedicated Day for Schools and Educational Institutions

Friday, June 5, will be dedicated to welcoming schools and educational institutions, from kindergarten classes to higher education programs.

Designed in collaboration with educational objectives, the proposed activities will combine guided tours, practical workshops, and discussions with professionals. This initiative offers younger generations a tangible and inspiring introduction to the world of craftsmanship. Additionally, it shows the many opportunities the sector provides.

Extending the Experience at Galerie du 19M

This year, Le 19M will also invite visitors to continue the journey through an immersive exhibition. This exhibition will be presented at Galerie du 19M from June 10 to July 19, 2026.

Dedicated to the expertise of Le 19M’s Resident Houses, the exhibition will highlight the richness of the disciplines that make up this creative ecosystem. In particular, embroidery, millinery, fashion jewelry, shoemaking, floristry, and couture will be explored through immersive installations, workshops, and encounters with artisans.

Practical Information

Friday, June 5, is reserved for schools and educational institutions upon registration.

Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7, are open to the public free of charge, with prior registration required.

With Mains d’Avenir, Le 19M once again reaffirms its commitment to preserving and transmitting exceptional craftsmanship. More than a trade fair, the event offers a unique immersion into the world of the artisans who shape excellence in contemporary fashion and decorative arts. Thus, Mains d’Avenir is an event that celebrates both tradition and innovation in the crafts industry.

The experience will continue at Galerie du 19M with an immersive exhibition running from June 10 to July 19, 2026. Through the expertise of its Resident Houses, visitors will discover the gestures, techniques, and creativity behind some of fashion’s most extraordinary creations. It will be a unique opportunity to extend the encounter with these exceptional crafts. Furthermore, it provides a way to celebrate a living heritage that continues to inspire future generations.

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