What is a Trunk Show?

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. In many cases it allows store personnel to preview and purchase merchandise before it is made available to the public.

Typically, clients view the merchandise, place orders, and then wait for the vendor to manufacture and deliver the goods. If the merchandise has a designer, the vendor may choose to have the designer present at the event to add to the customers’ experience. Prototypes, samples, remnants and leftover items from runway shows are sometimes also offered at trunk shows. 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.

The term is derived from the common practice of merchandise being transported to these events in trunks.

A trunk show is the ideal opportunity to try on the full collection from designers. During the event either the designers or their representatives are on hand to personally help customers choose their items and to answer customer questions. It is a perfect time to ask about any special requirements customers may have and a wonderful opportunity to meet the person who has created a dress, for example, that a customer is drawn to.

To make the most of the occasion, it is recommended that the customer bring along someone whose opinion she values and trusts, to help her decide. At a trunk show the customer will receive that extra bit of attention to detail that only the designer of her representative can give.