CENTRESTAGE 2022, one of Asia’s most anticipated annual fashion events, will be held from 9 to 11 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) Hall 1A-C.
More than 240 fashion brands and designer labels from 15 countries and regions will take part in the three-day fashion presentation, promoting a wide variety of ready-to-wear apparel and accessories.
This year’s CENTRESTAGE revolves around the theme of “Inclusion and Diversity”, inviting visitors to express themselves boldly through fashion and at the same time, celebrating the differences between bodies, cultures and ideologies.
CENTRESTAGE will host more than 30 fashion events in these three days, including a series of brand shows and seminars. The opening gala show on 9 September at 7pm, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, will see the global launch of the latest collections from two designer brands – Derek Chan and Mite Chan’s renowned brand DEMO from Hong Kong, as well as acclaimed Japanese designer Hideaki Shikama’s Children of the discordance. Both Derek Chan and Hideaki Shikama were chosen as the 10 Asian Designer to Watch in 2020 by Fashion Asia Hong Kong. Watch the show live on CENTRESTAGE website.
Derek Chan and Mite Chan, Founders of the Hong Kong brand DEMO
DEMO was founded in 2014 by locally bred designers Derek Chan and Mite Chan upon their completion of studies in fashion design. After joining the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest in 2012, Derek was ignited to start his own label, DEMO, which stands for “Demonstration of yourself”.
DEMO seeks to break gender norms and create the unique notion of soft masculinity. Its design philosophy celebrates boundless gender fluidity, individuality and self-expression, echoing the tagline of this year’s CENTRESTAGE, #MeMyselfAndUs. Taking inspiration from art, nature and classic literature, DEMO infuses sensitivity, emotional appeal and delicacy – traditionally found mostly in womenswear – into a progressive yet neutral menswear silhouette.
Hideaki Shikama, Founder of Children of the discordance from Japan
Founded in 2011 by Japanese designer Hideaki Shikama, works of Children of the discordance pay tribute to street culture and dances with the attitude of “discordance” and “rebelliousness”. Shikama takes inspiration from music, fashion and zeitgeist from the 90s and beyond, creating a youthful and characteristic brand that respects craftsmen, creators and producers behind the scenes.
Children of the discordance has been highly acclaimed by the fashion community in both Japan and around the globe. Shikama won the prestigious Tokyo Fashion Award in 2018 and the brand has also been selected for Milano Fashion Week since 2020.
CENTRESTAGE will again be open to public and trade visitors throughout the entire show period, providing an ideal platform for visitors to share the joys of fashion and shopping. A wide array of interactive experiences empowered by AR and VR technologies will be offered at the fairground to enrich visitors’ experience, including the brand new CENTREVERSE, a custom-built metaverse where visitors can interact and participate in fashion events using personalised avatars.
Visitors can jump into the brand new CENTREVERSE and interact with each other
These are just among some of the highlights to look forward to at this year’s CENTRESTAGE. Register now for free admission or visit the event’s official website for more information.
CENTRESTAGE Elites opening gala show
Date: 9 September (Fri)
Time: 7:00-7:30pm
Live-stream: https://bit.ly/3Ki1mSDCENTRESTAGE 2022
Date: 9-11 September (Fri to Sun)
Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Halls 1A-C
Register now for free: https://bit.ly/3cEiZ2z
Lead Sponsor:
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FWO
Moving into an inclusive and diverse new fashion world empowered by interactive technologiesOrganised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by Create Hong Kong* (CreateHK) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), CENTRESTAGE returns to the spotlight from 9 to 11 September. The three-day event will open to fashion buyers and also the general public, featuring a number of in-person as well as virtual exhibitions with visitors able to immerse themselves in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) interactive experiences.
HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Sophia Chong said: “In recent years, innovative ideas have been integrated into the designs, materials, manufacturing, sales and customer experience of the fashion industry, with the advent of new technologies creating even more possibilities. This year’s CENTRESTAGE will have “Inclusion and Diversity” as its central theme, with an emphasis on authentic self-expression, projecting a common goal of enabling everyone to express their bold imagination through beauty and aesthetics. The three-day event will feature 20 fashion shows and showcase the latest collections of more than 230 brands from 15 countries and regions. A series of digital experiences have been added in 2022, amplifying the enjoyment of this iconic event.”
Various designers and brands launch latest collectionsCENTRESTAGE ELITES is the spotlight opening gala show, featuring Hong Kong and Japanese brands DEMO and Children of the discordance – both chosen by Fashion Asia Hong Kong as among the 10 Asian Designers to Watch in 2020. Derek Chan will launch the latest 2023 spring/summer collection of his gender-neutral fashion label DEMO together with co-founder Mite Chan. At the same time, Japanese designer Hideaki Shikama, founder of young fashion label Children of the discordance will be showcasing his collection in Hong Kong for the first time. The show will be livestreamed through the CENTRESTAGE fair website and social media platforms (Facebook and Instagram).
The Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show will feature six Hong Kong brands presenting their 2023 spring/summer collections. Participating labels include 112 mountainyam, which uses vivid colours to express confidence; ANGUS TSUI, which highlights sci-fi elements in its designs; BLIND by JW, which merges fashion with art tech; Bettie Haute Couture, which has a focus on bespoke women’s clothing; SUN=SEN, which emphasises playfulness in its designs; and V VISSI, which works on promoting social inclusion through fashion design. Sustainability is an important issue to the fashion industry, and this year the designers will debut collections that use sustainable materials. Local enterprise Novetex Textiles Limited has been invited to work with the designers, each of whom will use upcycled fibres from The Billie System to create distinctive designs. In addition, visitors are encouraged to donate their old 100% cotton T-shirts or polo shirts through the Fashion Hong Kong booth, with the first 100 donors getting a limited-edition souvenir made with upcycled materials.
A series of “Brand Collection Shows” and “Designer Collection Shows” will be launched over the three days of the event. The former will feature a number of renowned Hong Kong fashion brands while the latter will showcase the best works from different fashion designers. In addition, this year’s CENTRESTAGE is honoured to welcome the participation of Fashion Farm Foundation (FFF), which works to promote Hong Kong fashion design. Sponsored by CreateHK, “FFF – Fashion Forward GBA” is an event staged in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the HKSAR on the first day of the show, with participating designers including local brands YMDH and Charlotte Ng Studio. The “Hong Kong Kids Fashion Show”, which is always eagerly anticipated by fashion-loving parents, will be held on 11 September.
CENTRESTAGE helps to nurture local design talents
This year’s event continues to put the focus on up-and-coming local design talents. The seven Hong Kong designer brands that will present in the FASHIONALLY Collection #19 fashion show on day one (9 September) are ARTO., CAR|2IE, FromClothingof, KEVIN HO, Lapeewee, REDEMPTIVE and WHY. In total, three FASHIONALLY Presentation shows will be held on 9 and 10 September with three emerging local fashion labels launching their latest collections, namely Wilsonkaki and new participants Kowloon City Boy and Vo-yage.
Another highlight of this year’s CENTRESTAGE will be the final of the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest 2022 (YDC) on 11 September. The annual YDC has been introducing new faces to the industry every year since 1977. The star-studded judging panel in 2022 includes fashion industry leader, buyers, editors and stylists, with CENTRESTAGE ELITES participating Japanese designer Hideaki Shikama invited as the overseas VIP judge. The 10 shortlisted competitors will compete for four honours, namely Overall Champion, the Excellence Award, the Best Visual Presentation Award and the “My Favourite Collection Award”. For the latter, members of the public can vote for their favourite collection online and stand the chance to win one of seven HK$2,000 Lee Gardens Area e-gift coupons sponsored by Hysan Development.
Public can venture into the metaverse with new digital experiences
This year’s CENTRESTAGE offers a trip to the metaverse with numerous phygital experiences to enhance visitors’ enjoyment. A number of different interactive experiences will be featured at the fairground, such as the CENTREVERSE, jointly developed by Microsoft AltspaceVR and Mirum, where visitors can create their own fashion avatar and interact with others in a virtual world, and even use AR tools to get dressed up. Various seminars will be organised during the show, looking into topics such as how artificial intelligence is being applied in the fashion industry, the development of the metaverse, sustainability in fashion and trend forecasts.
CENTRESTAGE will be held alongside the Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TE, meaning visitors can shop for fashion apparel and quality watches from around the world under one roof. A lucky draw for the special “CENTRESTAGE X Watch & Clock” will be held over the weekend (10-11 September).
HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Sophia Chong said the three-day CENTRESTAGE will showcase the latest fashion collections of more than 230 brands from 15 countries and regionsCelebrity artistes Jeannie Chan and Adam Pak wore outfits by DEMO at today’s CENTRESTAGE press conferenceCelebrity Adam Pak wore DEMO outfits while other models showcased collections from other labels featuring at the upcoming CENTRESTAGERabee’a Yeung, emcee of the CENTRESTAGE 2022 press conference, was dressed in VICTOR CHAN STUDIO’s collectionThe CENTRESTAGE ELITES will feature Hong Kong label DEMO (second from left, second from right) and Japanese brand Children of the discordance (left, right) presenting their 2023 spring/summer collectionsCENTRESTAGE will feature 20 fashion shows and parades, with members of the public able to join in the funThree FASHIONALLY Presentation shows will be held on 9 and 10 September with three emerging local fashion labels launching their latest collections, namely new participants Kowloon City Boy (in photo), Wilsonkaki and Vo-yage
Asia’s fashion spotlight CENTRESTAGE returns next month
Designers and brands take innovative approach amid pandemic Annual event opens to public visitors for the first timeAsia’s premier fashion event, CENTRESTAGE, returns in September for its sixth edition, running in a physical format from 10 to 12 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).
Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the show features more than 200 brands from over 20 countries and regions and close to 30 fashion events, offering an ideal platform through which brands and designers can showcase their creativity in the fashion arena and demonstrate their resilience in overcoming the recent challenges. For the first time, the show will open to public visitors for the entire duration of the event.
HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau said: “Last year’s CENTRESTAGE was held virtually, but I am delighted that the event has been able to overcome limitations resulting from the pandemic and return in the physical format in 2021, helping to showcase more fashion brands and budding designers from Asia and across the globe. The show provides a comprehensive promotional platform through which fashion talents can present their latest collections and connect with global buyers and fashionistas. This year’s CENTRESTAGE is particularly meaningful as designers have gone through so many challenges as a result of the pandemic. They are facing up to the new environment with fresh ideas and a spark of innovation in their creations.”
Overcoming pandemic challenges, fostering industry interaction
CENTRESTAGE 2021 will have “Chapter Infinity” as its central theme, encouraging those in the fashion industry to take creative approaches and reignite their inspiration in the pandemic era, exploring the countless opportunities that lie ahead. The event will feature three thematic zones: ALLURE – representing craftsmanship, refinement and elegance; ICONIC – displaying avant-garde designs; and METRO – showcasing contemporary, minimalistic expressions of urban life. This year’s event will feature over 200 fashion brands, including more than 120 brands from Hong Kong. Although travel restrictions remain in effect between Hong Kong and the rest of the world, some brands and industry organisations outside Hong Kong will send local representatives to participate in the event, including the Taiwan Textile Federation, Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center, Italian fashion promotion organisation Ente Moda Italia (EMI) and new joiner Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Amalty from Kazakhstan.
In addition, overseas buyers that have been invited to conduct video business meetings with exhibitors include 3NY from the United States, Germany’s Encode Fashion, Thailand’s Bluepin and Vietnam’s Runway. Local fashion buyers such as Club 21, D-mop, Harvey Nichols, I.T, Lane Crawford and online fashion store Farfetch have also been invited.
CENTRESTAGE ELITES show boosted by XR, artiste Hins Cheung gives support
The spotlight opening gala show on 10 September, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, will see the global launch of the latest 2022 Spring/Summer collections from local designers Calvin Chan and Joyce Kun’s renowned brand The World Is Your Oyster, as well as acclaimed Korean designer Lee Mooyeol’s brand, YOUSER. Lee Mooyeol won’t be able to come to Hong Kong himself, but he is actively involved in the show’s production. Celebrity singer and fashionista Hins Cheung will attend the event, which will use extended reality (XR) for added impact, and give his support to the designers. The show will be livestreamed through the CENTRESTAGE website and social media platforms Facebook and Instagram, employing augmented reality (AR) effects to enhance the online viewing experience.
Wide array of fashion shows presented by local design talents
The HKTDC has organised a series of activities around the world. With profound experience gained through international fashion weeks, a number of local designers will present their latest collections at Hong Kong Emerging Talents Show on 10 September and Fashion Go Places on 11 September.
Another highlight of this year’s CENTRESTAGE will be the final of the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest 2021 (YDC) held on 12 September. The VIP judges will be Rushemy Botter and Lisi Herrebrugh, founders of menswear label BOTTER. The 10 shortlisted candidates will compete for four honours, including overall champion, the Excellence Award, Best Visual Presentation Award and My Favourite Collection Award. Members of the public can vote for their favourite collection online and stand the chance to win one of seven HK$2,000 Lee Gardens Area e-gift certificates sponsored by Hysan Development.
Local online fashion hub FASHIONALLY.com will feature its FASHIONALLY Collection #17 fashion show on 10 September, presenting rising local fashion designers and labels. Other Hong Kong brands will combine a fashion short film with an onsite performance at FASHIONALLY Presentations on 10 September and 11 September, providing a creative showcase for their 2022 Spring/Summer collections.
Fashion Summit (Hong Kong) 2021, an international forum focused on sustainable development in the fashion industry, will take place on 9 and 10 September with the theme “Design for the Future”. Redress, a local non-governmental organisation promoting sustainable fashion, will present the Grand Final of the Redress Design Award 2021, the world’s largest sustainable fashion design competition, on 11 September. Local fashion brands Sparkle by Karen Chan and The Sparkle Collection will launch their new collections at CENTRESTAGE. Well-known key opinion leader Lilian Kan will also showcase her designs at the fair for the first time. Other events include the Hong Kong Kids Fashion Show and “LEGO x Hong Kong Designers Parade” on 12 September, while the “Watch x Fashion” Lucky Draw Session will take place on the weekend of 11-12 September.
CENTRESTAGE in Town citywide events
CENTRESTAGE in Town features a series of fashion events beyond the CENTRESTAGE fairground, collaborating with some 100 Hong Kong boutiques, shopping malls and cultural landmarks to generate a fashion buzz across the city.
Highlighted events include:
Date (Year 2021)
Event
Venue
From today to 5 Jan 2022
Exhibition – “NOT a fashion store!”
Hong Kong Museum of Art
From today to 31 Dec
PMQ Creative Workshop Series
PMQ
From today to 5 Sept
Fashion Walk HK Designers Concept Pop-up Store (inside Philip Gold Curation)
Fashion Walk, Kingston Street, Causeway Bay
20 Aug to 12 Sept
JCCAC X PMQ Collaborative Exhibition: But Wing-ki
PMQ
27 Aug to 6 Sept
CENTRESTAGE Fashion Showcase
Harbour City Gateway Arcade
1-9 Sept
CENTRESTAGE Digital Gallery
D2 Place TWO
1-9 Sept
CENTRESTAGE Pop-up Shop (Whitelisted by Novelty Lan & Fashion Farm Foundation)
D2 Place ONE
4-5 Sept, 11-12 Sept, 18-19 Sept, 25-16 Sept
D2 Place Weekend Market
D2 Place ONE
4-6 Sept
JCCAC Handicraft Fair
Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre (JCCAC)
20 Sept to 3 Oct
JCCAC X PMQ Collaborative Exhibition: Chan Ting
PMQ
Speaking at today’s CENTRESTAGE press conference, Benjamin Chau, Deputy Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, said CENTRESTAGE has overcome limitations resulting from the pandemic to return in a physical format, featuring more than 200 brands from over 20 countries and regions
Felix Chung, Chairman of the Fashion Summit (HK) 2021 Steering Committee, spoke at the CENTRESTAGE press conference
From left to right: Panther Chan, ANSONBEAN and Hong Kong designer Calvin Chan. The two celebrities wore outfits by The World Is Your Oyster at the CENTRESTAGE press conference
Local design brands joined today’s CENTRESTAGE press conference
Hong Kong fashion designers Calvin Chan and Joyce Kun (brand: The World Is Your Oyster)（left）, and Korean designer Lee Mooyeol (brand: YOUSER)（right）, will launch their 2022 Spring/Summer collections at CENTRESTAGE’s opening gala show, CENTRESTAGE ELITES
Rabee’a Yeung, emcee of the CENTRESTAGE 2021 press conference, was dressed in Match Showroom.
A fashion parade at the press conference presented designs by two of the featured brands from CENTRESTAGE ELITES and some of the other brands participating in CENTRESTAGE
About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels.
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FWO
Talent of 14 Budding Young HK Designers Shines at Fashion Show
CENTRESTAGE, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), became virtual in 2020, with both the exhibition and fashion shows migrated to an online platform. Asia’s leading fashion event concluded on 19 September with the 2020 Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest (YDC), broadcast live through the Internet. Fourteen promising local designers overcame the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic to showcase their creations at a special fashion show, competing for the five YDC awards being given out this year.
Champion Brian Chan received a monetary reward together with a one-month overseas internship sponsored by Fang Brothers Knitting Ltd.
The winners at YDC 2020 were as follows:
Champion: Brian Chan. Design: “Floating Mindset”
Excellence Award & New Talent Award: Jacqueline Leung. Design: “The Blessed Kids”
Best Visual Presentation Award: Stephen Cheuk. Design: “Hyakki Yagyō”
My Favourite Collection Award: York Yip. Design: “Coexistence”
The My Favourite Collection Award was newly added this year, with members of the public voting online between 12 August and 18 September for their favourite new design star in Hong Kong.
Young designers gain valuable experience amid pandemic
The judging panel for this year’s YDC was made up of an impressive roster of fashion experts and media pundits. Chief Judge was Katherine Fang, Chairman of the HKTDC Garment Advisory Committee. The other judges on the panel were fashion designer Anais Mak; Michael Mok, General Merchandising Manager/Head of Merchandising at JOYCE; Jonathan Lee, Senior Area Manager (Asia) of Tomorrow Ltd; Kieran Ho, Senior Vice President-Hong Kong, Purple PR; stylist and art director Declan Chan; and Jason Lam, Head of Brand, Asia Pacific at MATCHESFASHION.
The judges assessed the young designers’ works based on creativity, originality, market potential, craftsmanship, use of fabrics and overall aesthetics, offering expert feedback to each of the participants. Ms Fang said: “The pandemic has undoubtedly caused disruption to business operations and people’s lives in general, but the HKTDC was determined to show its continued commitment to providing a flagship platform for young Hong Kong fashion talents to showcase their collections and share their stories. To succeed in the fashion industry requires resilience as much as it does creativity, and I would like to congratulate all of this year’s contestants for exhibiting both qualities so well.”
Winning collection showcase and sharing session
From now through to 5 October, the public can appreciate the skills shown in the winning YDC 2020 collections through a display at Hysan Place in Causeway Bay. On Saturday, 26 September, all the winning designers will be at Hysan Place to share their design experience and competition insights, while various fashion items designed by Hong Kong designers are available for sale at the YDC Collective Popup Store, also at Hysan Place, from now until 5 October.
Champion Designer: Brian Chan – Design: “Floating Mindset”
The design:
Mr Chan observed that there are very few clean beaches in Hong Kong, most being badly polluted with rubbish that is easily seen from ferries. As the fashion industry is responsible for much pollution due to washing and dyeing, he wanted to create a collection that promotes ocean conservation. His collection is visually inspired by floating debris, using only natural fibres such as cotton and wool. Irregular pockets, wave patterns and “disintegrating” patches are all motifs taken from the environment. The shapes are deliberately commercial to promote
wearability, while handcrafted details such as embroidery, patchwork and tassels give the collection an edge.
Prizes: (1) A cash award of HK$60,000 (2) An overseas study trip, sponsored by Fang Brothers Knitting LtdExcellence Award & New Talent Award Designer: Jacqueline Leung – Design: “The Blessed Kids”
The design:
Mothers and big sisters taking care of babies provided the inspiration for Ms Leung’s collection. The floral prints and tying of traditional baby carrier wraps are stylised to become design elements in a colourful collection that is both nostalgic and joyful. Digital prints, beading and quilting offer a visual feast of colours, shapes and textures, while windbreaker material and pastel green denim lend practicality and versatility. A hat, handbag and backpack inspired by the baby carrier complete the look.
Excellence Award Prizes: (1) A cash award of HK$40,000; (2) A trip to visit the Tomorrow Showroom in London offered by MINI HKNew Talent Award Prizes: (1) A cash award of HK$20,000 (2) Mentorship offered by JOYCE to develop a capsule collection to be sold at one of the JOYCE storesBest Visual Presentation Award Designer: Stephen Cheuk – Design: “Hyakki Yagyō”
The design:
The Japanese title of this collection means “night parade of a hundred demons”. These demons are thought to have been at war with people for many years, essentially as a way to show that they exist. Inspired by this idea, the collection aims to give voice to those marginalised in society such as ethnic minorities, the elderly and waste pickers. The materials are utilitarian like waxed fabric, and the clothes feature many pockets to store weapons and tools. Knits, fur and boiled wool are used to give a rich texture and convey the different characters of the “demons”. There is also a backpack that resembles a stretcher to reinforce a combative atmosphere.
Prizes: A cash award of HK$10,000My Favourite Collection Award Designer: York Yip – Design: “Coexistence”
The design:
The idea for York’s collection comes from aliens coexisting on earth with humans. The designs combine 1980s’ retrowave music and UFO-inspired graphics and silhouettes. The exaggerated fluorescents – colours on the ultraviolet spectrum – and shapes again hark back to the 80s, with double-sided fabrics lending volume. Bold, girly yet sexy, the looks are complete with hand-drawn shoes that give the illusion of rising into the sky.
Prize: A HK$6,000 e-Gift Coupon sponsored by Hysan Place
About YDC
The YDC aims to promote a new generation of local design talent, while creating opportunities to showcase their collections in front of global and local industry professionals at CENTRESTAGE. Organised by the HKTDC, the contest is considered one of the most prestigious events of its kind in the region, with a successful track record of past contestants becoming leading designers for fashion enterprises or establishing their own labels. To further promote the international visibility of local Hong Kong designers, in 2012 the HKTDC launched FASHIONALLY.com, an online platform that showcases the work of local labels and talents and links them with global industry insiders and opportunities.
About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels.
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With love,
FWO
Now in its fifth edition, CENTRESTAGE, the Asia’s fashion spotlight takes a new digital approach for the first time, enabling designers and fashion brands to gain broader international exposure and foster connections.CENTRESTAGE presents “A World of Phygital”
Despite the uncertainties and challenges ahead, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) stays positive and chalks out a new format for CENTRESTAGE to create businesses opportunities for the fashion talents. For the first time, CENTRESTAGE is transforming into a digital fashion showcase — “A World of Phygital”, delivering a brand new experience where the physical and digital worlds converge.
From 17 to 19 September 2020, a series of six virtual runway shows featuring latest collections from 40+ Hong Kong and Asian designers will be premiered to global audience on the digital platform centrestage.com.hk.
The industry powerhouses, buyers, media and fashion aficionados alike are invited to explore the diverse and interactive content — conceptual fashion shoots, videos, dialogues with designers, profiles and many more on this platform. This digital hub also houses 240 designer labels and fashion brands profiles to demonstrate the talents and creativities from the region.
Virtual runway show schedule is released:
3pm (GMT+8) / Hong Kong en Vogue (Designers’ Collection Show)
8:45pm (GMT+8) / Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest 2020
The virtual event is supported by Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region*.
Tune in to centrestage.com.hk for the brand-new experience and fresh inspirations.
*Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organizers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Communications and Creative Industries Branch of the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, Create Hong Kong, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.
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FWO
Carson Kressley Hammed it Up celebrating designers of Fashion Hong Kong
Represented by The Riviere Agency.The fashion set descended upon Mr. Purple’s rooftop bar despite the gloomy weather to celebrate Fashion Hong Kong Thursday night in the Lower East Side. The crowd mixed and mingled over light bites and cocktails braving the misty rain to check out the rooftop igloo where champagne was poured with some of Hong Kong’s top accessory designer’s collections displayed in the cozy cocoon of chic.
A few minutes into the evening Fashion Hong Kong brand’s HEAVEN PLEASE+, HARRISON WONG, SUN=SEN presented mens and womenswear looks from their FW20 collections. Select pieces that came down the runway at their NYFW: The Shows show earlier in the day were chosen for the presentation. Carson Kressley made an impromptu appearance in the mix of the models posing for photos and hamming it up for the crowd.
Carson Kressley
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Carson Kressley along with a mix of editors, fashion writers, influencers and dignitaries from Hong Kong imbibed and enjoyed beats from the house DJ at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s annual celebration of their brightest talent in fashion.
No party would be complete without an instagrammable igloo, and that’s exactly where guests got their selfie on and stayed warm! Accessory and apparel brands ARTO., Charlotte Ng Studio, Invisibilis Moveré, KKLUE, MIDNIGHT FACTORY, WHOSTHAT, made of pearl, Verdandi House, les amis, and Maria Conti had creative vignettes inside of the rooftop igloo, where guests stayed warm on the chilly winter night.
About the HKTDC
Established in 1966, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body dedicated to creating opportunities for Hong Kong’s businesses. With more than 40 offices globally, including 13 on the Chinese mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a platform for doing business with China, Asia and the world. With 50 years of experience, the HKTDC organizes international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to provide companies, particularly SMEs, with business opportunities on the mainland and in international markets, while providing business insights and information via trade publications, research reports and digital channels including the media room.
About CreateHK
Fashion Hong Kong Night was sponsored by Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region*.
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With love,
FWO
Fashion Hong Kong arrives at New York Fashion Week
Runway show gives local creativity a place in the limelightThree leading Hong Kong fashion designer brands took part in the Fashion Hong Kong runway show at New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2020 on February 6th, 2020. The runway parade, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), featured 36 unique creations, showcasing Hong Kong’s fashion vibrancy to industry elites and style influencers from the United States and around the world.
Launching their Fall/Winter 2020 collections during the runway show on 6 February was Harrison Wong (brand name: HARRISON WONG), design duo Lary Cheung and Yi Chan (brand name: HEAVEN PLEASE+), who return to the show for the third consecutive year, and debut designer Sun Lam (brand name: SUN=SEN). An after-show event – Fashion Hong Kong Night, sponsored by Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region* – will enable the young designers to network with high-profile fashion industry players.
B2B showroom to facilitate business exchange
Fashion Hong Kong is a series of international promotions organised by the HKTDC to raise the global profile of Hong Kong fashion designers and brands. Since 2015, Fashion Hong Kong has been staging world-class runway shows at major international fashion events, including New York Fashion Week, London Fashion Week, Copenhagen Fashion Week and Tokyo Fashion Week, showcasing the skills and creativity of Hong Kong’s fashion designers in overseas markets.
To further promote the city’s fashion brands and foster exchange and collaboration between Hong Kong designers and international buyers, the HKTDC will run the Fashion Hong Kong Showroom from 4 February to 5 March at FTL Moda, a major wholesale showroom located on New York’s Seventh Avenue, also known as “Fashion Avenue.”
In addition to the three designer brands showcased at the runway show, 10 other emerging Hong Kong fashion accessories and apparel brands will be featured in the Fashion Hong Kong showroom,
including: ARTO., Charlotte Ng Studio, Invisibilis Moveré, KKLUE, MIDNIGHT FACTORY, WHOSTHAT, made of pearl, Verdandi House, les amis, and Maria Conti.
Fashion Hong Kong designers at New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2020:
Harrison Wong
Brand: HARRISONWONG
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(Photos: ImaxTree)
Designer and brand profile
Harrison Wong, designer and founder of HARRISON WONG LIMITED, made his fashion debut by winning both the Hong Kong Young Designer’s Contest and the Grand Prix Contest in Japan. In 2014, Harrison Wong entered a new chapter by opening his first retail shop in Hong Kong. Now the label is expanding internationally and has been found in selected high-profile shops in different locations such as L’ECLAIREUR in Paris and Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong.
Fall/Winter 2020 Collection: Abstract Composition
Harrison Wong’s namesake label is known for simple, structured lines yet dramatic look. For his FW2020 collection, Harrison Wong returns to his fascination with abstract visual art, inspired to create a new style through a creative combination of classic tailoring, denim and workwear. The influence of abstraction comes through in unexpected deconstruction, patchwork, and dynamic colour blocking. The use of matte and glossy fabrics serves to provide heightened contrast in this new collection.
Lary Cheung and Yi Chan
Brand: HEAVEN PLEASE+
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(Photos: ImaxTree)
Designers and brand profile
Lary Cheung and Yi Chan graduated from Hong Kong Polytechnic University. They founded the brand HEAVEN PLEASE+ in 2011 and launched their initial collection in 2012. The designer duo are devoted to applying their experiences beyond the fashion industry, including art, music and literature. The brand has had the opportunity to design several costumes for Hong Kong artists and large-scale events including the Ultimate Song Chart Awards Presentation. HEAVEN PLEASE+ opened its first retail location in Tsim Sha Tsui in 2013, which was subsequently chosen by the Hong Kong Louis Vuitton City Guide as one of the recommended fashion stores to visit in 2017.
Fall/Winter 2020 Collection: GIRL, YOU’LL BE A WOMAN SOON
By applying different design variations on each of their pieces, Lary Cheung and Yi Chan wish to bring individuality to simple clothing. Their FW2020 collection was purposefully chosen to present the idea of a modern woman. Inspired by the Princess of Wales and traditional British royal costumes, the brand transforms elegant details from traditional pieces into modern daily wear.
Sun Lam
Brand: SUN=SEN
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Designer and brand profile
Coming from a family with a garment-industry background, SUN=SUN’s founder and creative director Sun Lam seeks to work with something unexpected and fun, with the intention of bringing these elements into the traditional clothing industry. In 2013, she won the Encouragement Prize in the 3rd International Ubiquitous Digital Fashion Design Contest organised by the Korean Society for Clothing Industry. She later went to the United Kingdom to earn a master’s degree in Fashion Design. Her graduate collection was chosen as a finalist in the iD Dunedin International Emerging Designer Award 2016 and was selected to participate in a showcase at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery. Ms Lam was later selected as one of the black sheep designers for the NotJustaLabel, and in 2017 was chosen as an Emerging Talent for the Paris TRANOÏ show.
Fall/Winter 2020 Collection: I SWEAR I’M A NICE GHOST
SUN=SEN always hopes to use garments to spread a sense of optimism to the world. Her FW2020 collection is inspired by an alien character called Nice Ghost, aiming to encourage people to express themselves and break through social stereotypes. The collection will combine space and girl fashion elements and continues with the brand’s signature double sleeves and multi-wear silhouettes.
About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels.
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FWO
Fashion Hong Kong arrives at New York Fashion Week
Runway show gives local creativity a place in the limelightThree leading Hong Kong fashion designer brands will take part in the Fashion Hong Kong runway show at New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2020 in February. The runway parade, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will feature 36 unique creations, showcasing Hong Kong’s fashion vibrancy to industry elites and style influencers from the United States and around the world.
Launching their Fall/Winter 2020 collections at the runway show on 6 February (Eastern Standard Time) will be Harrison Wong (brand name: HARRISON WONG), design duo Lary Cheung and Yi Chan (brand name: HEAVEN PLEASE+), who return to the show for the third consecutive year, and debut designer Sun Lam (brand name: SUN=SEN). An after-show event – Fashion Hong Kong Night, sponsored by Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region* – will enable the young designers to network with high-profile fashion industry players.
B2B showroom to facilitate business exchange
Fashion Hong Kong is a series of international promotions organised by the HKTDC to raise the global profile of Hong Kong fashion designers and brands. Since 2015, Fashion Hong Kong has been staging world-class runway shows at major international fashion events, including New York Fashion Week, London Fashion Week, Copenhagen Fashion Week and Tokyo Fashion Week, showcasing the skills and creativity of Hong Kong’s fashion designers in overseas markets.
To further promote the city’s fashion brands and foster exchange and collaboration between Hong Kong designers and international buyers, the HKTDC will run the Fashion Hong Kong Showroom from 4 February to 5 March at FTL Moda, a major wholesale showroom located on New York’s Seventh Avenue, also known as “Fashion Avenue.”
In addition to the three designer brands showcased at the runway show, 10 other emerging Hong Kong fashion accessories and apparel brands will be featured in the Fashion Hong Kong showroom, including: ARTO., Charlotte Ng Studio, Invisibilis Moveré, KKLUE, MIDNIGHT FACTORY, WHOSTHAT, made of pearl, Verdandi House, les amis, and Maria Conti.
Fashion Hong Kong designers at New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2020:
Harrison Wong
Brand: HARRISONWONG
Designer and brand profile
Harrison Wong, designer and founder of HARRISON WONG LIMITED, made his fashion debut by winning both the Hong Kong Young Designer’s Contest and the Grand Prix Contest in Japan. In 2014, Harrison Wong entered a new chapter by opening his first retail shop in Hong Kong. Now the label is expanding internationally and has been found in selected high-profile shops in different locations such as L’ECLAIREUR in Paris and Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong.
Fall/Winter 2020 Collection: Abstract Composition
Harrison Wong’s namesake label is known for simple, structured lines yet dramatic look. For his FW2020 collection, Harrison Wong returns to his fascination with abstract visual art, inspired to create a new style through a creative combination of classic tailoring, denim and workwear. The influence of abstraction comes through in unexpected deconstruction, patchwork, and dynamic colour blocking. The use of matte and glossy fabrics serves to provide heightened contrast in this new collection.
Lary Cheung and Yi Chan
Brand: HEAVEN PLEASE+
Designers and brand profile
Lary Cheung and Yi Chan graduated from Hong Kong Polytechnic University. They founded the brand HEAVEN PLEASE+ in 2011 and launched their initial collection in 2012. The designer duo are devoted to applying their experiences beyond the fashion industry, including art, music and literature. The brand has had the opportunity to design several costumes for Hong Kong artists and large-scale events including the Ultimate Song Chart Awards Presentation. HEAVEN PLEASE+ opened its first retail location in Tsim Sha Tsui in 2013, which was subsequently chosen by the Hong Kong Louis Vuitton City Guide as one of the recommended fashion stores to visit in 2017.
Fall/Winter 2020 Collection: GIRL, YOU’LL BE A WOMAN SOON
By applying different design variations on each of their pieces, Lary Cheung and Yi Chan wish to bring individuality to simple clothing. Their FW2020 collection was purposefully chosen to present the idea of a modern woman. Inspired by the Princess of Wales and traditional British royal costumes, the brand transforms elegant details from traditional pieces into modern daily wear.
Sun Lam
Brand: SUN=SEN
Designer and brand profile
Coming from a family with a garment-industry background, SUN=SUN’s founder and creative director Sun Lam seeks to work with something unexpected and fun, with the intention of bringing these elements into the traditional clothing industry. In 2013, she won the Encouragement Prize in the 3rd International Ubiquitous Digital Fashion Design Contest organised by the Korean Society for Clothing Industry. She later went to the United Kingdom to earn a master’s degree in Fashion Design. Her graduate collection was chosen as a finalist in the iD Dunedin International Emerging Designer Award 2016 and was selected to participate in a showcase at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery. Ms Lam was later selected as one of the black sheep designers for the NotJustaLabel, and in 2017 was chosen as an Emerging Talent for the Paris TRANOÏ show.
Fall/Winter 2020 Collection: I SWEAR I’M A NICE GHOST
SUN=SEN always hopes to use garments to spread a sense of optimism to the world. Her FW2020 collection is inspired by an alien character called Nice Ghost, aiming to encourage people to express themselves and break through social stereotypes. The collection will combine space and girl fashion elements and continues with the brand’s signature double sleeves and multi-wear silhouettes.
About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
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FWO
Centrestage Elites Unveils Spring 2020 Fashion Trends Anais Mak and Joseph Altuzarra Present Dazzling Collections
CENTRESTAGE launched its annual fashion extravaganza last night (4 September) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The exclusive CENTRESTAGE ELITES opening event brought together renowned Hong Kong designer Anais Mak and her brand ANAÏS JOURDEN, and New York-based Joseph Altuzarra and his brand ALTUZARRA, in a joint fashion show featuring their pre-spring 2020 collections.
CENTRESTAGE is Asia’s premier fashion event, organised annually by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), offering a promotion platform for fashion brands and designers to showcase their talent, at the same time helping to strengthen Hong Kong’s position as one of Asia’s fashion capitals. Last night’s gala presented the latest collections from the two designers, drawing an attendance of more than 1,000 industry insiders, celebrities and fashionistas including Priscilla Wong, Sharon Chan, Bowie Cheung, Jennifer Yu, Judy Kwong, Ashley Lam, Dickson Yu, Karl Ting and Veronica Shiu.
Centrestage Elites Unveils Spring 2020 Fashion Trends Anais Mak and Joseph Altuzarra Present Dazzling Collections
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The fourth edition of CENTRESTAGE runs from 4 to 7 September and features more than 240 participating brands, of which over 80 are from Hong Kong. Around 1,500 international buyers were invited to attend, with the objective of connecting local brands with the global fashion industry. Across the four days of the fair, attendees can participate in more than 40 events including over 20 fashion shows, designer sharing sessions, open talks, trend analyses and networking opportunities.
Featuring 240 Designer Labels and Brands, Some 40 Fashion Shows and MoreCENTRESTAGE, Asia’s premier fashion event organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), has entered its fourth year, running from 4 to 7 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The four-day extravaganza, with “Future Tribes” as its central theme, has gathered 240 brands from 23 countries and regions around the world. A number of fashion presentations − including FASHIONALLY Collection #14, the FASHION HONG KONG RUNWAY SHOW, and three FASHIONALLY Presentations – are being held to showcase the latest collections from Hong Kong design labels, attracting the attendance of numerous fashionistas, models and celebrities.
OPENSTAGE welcomes the public
The final day of CENTRESTAGE tomorrow (7 September) will be titled “OPENSTAGE” and is open to public visitors aged 12 and above, free of charge. Attendees will have free access to the Fashionista’s Sharing Series, a makeup demonstration by NARS, a sharing session on fashion trends with fashionista Rikko Lee and designers from local brands METHODOLOGY and MEIKING NG, and more. Public visitors will also have a chance to check out the latest designs from leading local and overseas brands, with retail sales offered by selected brands.
Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show (4 September)
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Fashionally Collection #14
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Fashionally Presentation 1 Charlotte Ng Studio (4 September)
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Celebrities at Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show (4 September)
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Fashionally Presentation 2 Fake Fanv (5 September)
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Fashionally Presentation 3 Startfromzero & Son (5 September)
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Centrestage 2019 Concludes Survey: Celebrity Endorsement, Brand Licensing and Crossover Are Effective Strategies
The 2019 edition of Asia’s premier fashion event, CENTRESTAGE, drew to a successful close yesterday. The four-day event (4-7 September), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), brought about 240 fashion brands from 23 countries and regions to Hong Kong and attracted close to 7,000 buyers from 74 countries and regions. Those from Europe and Latin America recorded growth, reinforcing the show as an international promotional and launching platform for fashion brands.
“As a premium fashion event in Asia, CENTRESTAGE attracts many brands and buyers. It serves as a platform for industry players to exchange information and designers and brands to promote their products. A number of fashion shows were held during the fair period. Local designers and international brands showcased an incredible creative force, further raising Hong Kong’s status as Asia’s fashion hub,” said HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau. “The HKTDC organised 36 buying missions comprising over 1,500 international fashion buyers to visit the fair, and pooled additional resources to strengthen business matching between exhibitors and buyers for more business opportunities,” he added.
Centrestage 2019 Concludes Survey
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Survey shows celebrity endorsement is effective strategy
The HKTDC commissioned an independent research agency to conduct an on-site survey during the show to gauge future product trends and the outlook for the fashion industry. Interviewing more than 300 exhibitors and buyers, the survey found the respondents believe that celebrity and key opinion leader (KOL) endorsement (40%), brand licensing (40%) and crossover (39%) are the most common and effective product development and sales strategies. On product trends, the survey found that 65% of the respondents expect casual wear and city wear to be the most popular product categories, followed by fashion accessories (18%) and high fashion (10%).
Nearly half of the survey respondents expect overall sales to remain steady, and more than 30% expect growth in the coming year. Fifty-seven per cent of the respondents expect sourcing prices or production costs to remain steady, while 35% expect growth. Sixty-five per cent of the respondents said they would not raise unit or retail prices, reflecting the general hesitancy in the industry to transfer the cost increase to customers.
European buyers looking for new Asian brands with potential
The central theme of CENTRESTAGE 2019 was “Future Tribes”, showing that designers’ efforts can make a fearless future by creating new identities through the use of culture, images and aesthetics as well as making modern and fashionable brands. In recent years, many Asian fashion brands have been entering the world fashion stage and gaining favour with buyers. The French boutique store Handsome Paris SAS sells about 60 fashion brands in France. David Kang, General Director of the store, came to CENTRESTAGE to inject more diversity in the store’s brand collection. He said that he learned more about Hong Kong brands through FASHIONALLY Collection #14 fashion show, and was interested in DEMO and NERCO POON’s designs. He also found VVISSI and will negotiate further after the fair. He expected to place initial orders of US$5,000-10,000 with each.
Raising the popularity of young fashion brands
More than 20 fashion shows were organised during the show’s four-day run. The spotlight opening gala show CENTRESTAGE ELITES saw the global launch of pre-spring 2020 collections on the runway from Hong Kong designer Anais Mak (Brand: ANAÏS JOURDEN) as well as acclaimed New York designer Joseph Altuzarra (Brand: ALTUZARRA), attracting more than 1,000 industry players, celebrities and fashionistas. It was followed by the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show, featuring the latest Spring/Summer 2020 collections of Hong Kong designer labels that have participated in international fashion weeks. One of the participating local labels, MEIKING NG, has participated in CENTRESTAGE since its first edition in 2016. June Ng, Founder and Chief Designer of the label, said that, as a Hong Kong designer, she enjoyed the home advantage in being able to grasp the opportunity to release her latest collection at the signature Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show, which is a desirable event to gain media exposure. She was also impressed by the HKTDC’s extensive publicity campaign and business matching meetings, through which she met with buyers from Italy and Ningxia and Wuhan in Mainland China. A buyer from an upscale department store in Paris, France, was also interested in her label’s sunglasses collection. She noted that the event helps in building connections and finding partners.
The fourth edition of CENTRESTAGE (4-7 September) features about 240 fashion brands from 23 countries and regions, showcasing the latest fashion brands and designer collections from Asia and around the world, attracting close to 7,000 buyers from 74 countries and regions.
Over 20 fashion shows are held at the event, including the opening gala fashion show CENTRESTAGE ELITES and Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show. Many labels launched their latest collections on stage.
Brands reveal their latest collections through fashion shows and presentations at CENTRESTAGE, an ideal promotion and launch platform for international fashion brands and designers. Three new local brands, including Charlotte Ng Studio (left), Fake Fan (middle) and SFZ & SON (right) participating in the FASHIONALLY Presentation.
Fashion Summit (HK) and a series of seminars are held during the fair, exploring issues including the sustainable development of the fashion industry, and technological impacts on the industry, attracting many industry players.
Meet the Visionaries seminars feature some international fashion designers. ANAÏS JOURDEN’s founder Anais Mak (left) and ALTUZARRA’s founder Joseph Altuzarra (right) discuss the impact of young designers on the world stage.
Redress Design Award (left), the world’s largest sustainable fashion design competition, and the Knitwear Symphony 2019 and the ninth Hong Kong Young Knitwear Designers’ Contest (right), organised by the Knitwear Innovation and Design Society, are held during the event to nurture more budding talents.
CENTRESTAGE becomes “OPENSTAGE” on Saturday (7 September), welcoming public visitors aged 12 and above free of charge to enjoy a series of events, including designer and fashionista sharing sessions and make-up demonstrations.
Hong Kong in Fashion features over 90 fashion events beyond the CENTRESTAGE fairground, collaborating with more than 90 Hong Kong fashion boutiques, restaurants, hotels and cultural landmarks to generate “fashion heat” across the city. The campaign runs through 30 September.
FASHIONALLY Presentations at CENTRESTAGE give designers the chance to tell their brand stories, with ex-YDC winners Charlotte Ng, Kurt Ho, Nelson Leung and Sonic Lam the featured designers for 2019.
Every year at CENTRESTAGE, designers are given the opportunity to stage a fashion presentation in a space where the audience can appreciate the designs up close, while they can create unique settings to tell their brand stories and showcase their latest collections.
FASHIONALLY Presentation
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CHARLOTTE NG STUDIO
Set in a familiar office setting, CHARLOTTE NG STUDIO’s presentation demonstrates how looking great is not an impediment to being strong. Women can work on a desk in front of the computer, but they are also capable of physical tasks, as evidenced by the huge boxes piled up in the office. The idea for the collection is that women are versatile and strong, even if they wear feminine clothes.
Charlotte Ng calls her SS 2020 collection a “fe-mannish” one because it combines feminine and masculine styles. She is inspired by professional Hong Kong women in senior positions who remain very elegant and feminine. They are also capable of being very physical and her designs will show this duality by combining contradicting styles in each outfit – asymmetric cuts, bows on shirting fabrics, juxtaposing sheer on opaque, partially pleated skirts – and so on.
The season’s colours are rusty orange, military green, cobalt blue and black, all conveying a sense of strength while the looks are office attire dotted with playful details that again, reflect a thoroughly modern feminine character that embodies toughness and flamboyance.
A graduate of the Institute of Fashion and Textiles at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Ng was the second runner-up and won the Best Footwear Design Award at YDC 2018. Boosted by her win, she launched her namesake womenswear label, CHARLOTTE NG STUDIO, in May this year. Her designs target women who love to mix and match and play around with accessories and layering. She pays attention to workmanship and the choice of fabrics to offer an alternative to fast fashion through which women can fully express themselves.
CHARLOTTE NG STUDIO
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FAKE FAN
FAKE FAN’s debut collection is inspired by Hong Kong cinema in the 70s and 80s, including Kung Fu movies, police dramas and Stephen Chow comedies. The presentation, titled “Full House”, is set in an old cinema, with models watching a “movie” filled with messages that reflect the designers’ thoughts on the world today, be that comedic, sarcastic or serious.
This streetwear collection is colourful and quirky, including a dress that is an inverted tank top. The oversized canvas jacket in bright colours can go with any outfit. “Anything goes” seems to be the mantra when it comes to colours. Graphics play a big role in this collection, whether printed, sewn or embroidered. The items are largely unisex and allow for countless mix and match possibilities.
Nelson Leung and Kurt Ho became good friends after competing at YDC 2014 together. They have since been working on their own labels but decided to launch a new label together that can be an outlet for a completely different aesthetic from their own. Their vision for FAKE FAN is streetwear that can react faster to what is happening in the world today. Compared to their eponymous labels, FAKE FAN uses plenty of printed graphics on wearable designs to appeal to the younger generation.
FAKE FAN
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SFZ & SON
SFZ & SON is a workwear label designed by Sonic Lam for his Start From Zero teammates. These carpenters and builders need functional, durable clothing with plenty of pockets and specially designed bags to carry tools.
The style is relaxed and American, but Lam has added traditional Chinese elements to reflect Hong Kong culture. As it turned out, matching traditional Chinese prints with workers’ overalls has become a new aesthetic in SFZ & SON’s latest collection.
Being a workwear collection, khaki, indigo and denim are indispensable but Lam has managed to enrich the visuals with a variety of patterns – stripes, checks, Hawaiian prints – as well as pops of coral. Patchwork jackets in denim, with his and her versions, are a cool attempt to create a more formal look for added versatility.
Wearing their smart workwear, the SFZ & SON team showed off their skills during the presentation by building a house in a matter of minutes, establishing them as a talented team able to take on different creative tasks.
Lam graduated from the Hong Kong Design Institute in 2012 and received a scholarship from the Hong Kong Design Centre to further his study at the Birmingham City University in the UK. At YDC 2017, he was crowned the first runner-up. He has worked as concert stylist for pop singer Eason Chan and the Duo Band and has been invited to collaborate with Nike. He is now part of Start From Zero, a team of happy workers engaging in woodwork and street art.
SFZ & SON
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Over the years FASHIONALLY’s show at CENTRESTAGE has provided a platform for emerging Hong Kong talents to showcase their creativity to the local community and beyond. The Spring/Summer 2020 edition pointed at a bright future for the city’s next generation of designers, who played with vivid colours, tailoring and layered looks for next season.Fashionally Collection #14
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Tibetan architecture was the starting point for Yannes Wong’s collection for Lapeewee. She said that many of her rich textures and decorative details were taken from Tibetan robes, but the final looks were understated save for a few exotic motifs printed on dresses, blouse sleeves and skirts. The addition of figure-hugging denim corsets and peplum belts detracted from more wearable pieces including a sheer tartan dress and romantic high-necked blouse. The dresses constructed from different suiting materials were playful but overwhelmed the body with too much fabric.
LapeeweeFromClothingOf designer Shirley Wong also played with deconstruction and featured irregular cuts and half-finished pieces in her collection. She brought a new meaning to power dressing by combining lightweight suiting fabrics and cotton with mesh and silk organza to create a series of layered dresses, including a trench-coat style. Clever cutting and styling tricks including belts ensured that the silhouettes were feminine and flattering.
FromClothingOf
The best tailoring award however goes to London College of Fashion graduate KEVIN HO. Form fitting dresses were pieced together like collages that played tricks on the eye. His use of different fabrics including jacquard and mesh, and abstract prints created an eye-popping 3D effect. There was a classic long sleeve dress which become fresh and modern thanks to details such as sharp shoulders, a bold red stripe and fluid asymmetrical hem skirt.
KEVIN HO
Arto Wong from ARTO. has been a name to watch since she won the champion and New Talent Award at YDC 2017 and she proved that she has an eye for colour and print. She experimented with head-to-toe colour – in this case Yves Klein blue – but kept the look interesting with contemporary shapes including paper bag waist trousers and a voluminous gathered top. The prints of the collection were extremely versatile. They looked elegant on a bell-shaped dress, but appeared cool and casual on an asymmetrical top paired with a coral skirt.
ARTO
While Wong’s collection was decidedly modern, Tak Lee’s collection under Tak L. had a whiff of nostalgia about it. He experimented with techniques such as plant-based block printing, tie dye, and tea-dyeing which added an artisanal touch to his boho dresses. An earthy palette and traditional handmade fabrics such as Lushan silk added to the arts-and-crafts vibe. The fitted jackets were a highlight with contrasting white lapel and frayed hems.
Tak L
Designers Derek Chan, Jason Lee and Necro Poon offered up some interesting looks for men. For his label DEMO, Chan created a poetic collection inspired by the Cantonese opera “Death of a Princess.” He took feminine fabrics such as tweeds and lace which he transformed into distressed jackets and shorts in faded colours for the modern day dandy.
DEMO
There was no place for romance in YMDH’s collection. Lee’s man was ready to hit the streets in a playful collection of military-inspired separates including colourful onesies, jackets decorated with safety belt straps and a washed denim jacket with a hood that covered the entire face. Instead of using technical fabrics, the designer opted for natural fibres such as linen and cotton to add a soft touch.
YMDH
Fashion for many designers is a reflection of what’s happening in society and NECRO POON’s collection referenced the recent protests that happened in the city. The collection was transformed into protective – albeit fashionable – clothing as models took to the runway wearing black masks and other head gear. There was a mix of functional pieces such as raincoats, cargo pants and jackets made from denim and functional tech fabrics.
NECRO POON
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FWO
YDC 2019: A new generation of fashion stars are born
Anew crop of young talents flexed their creative muscles at the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest 2019 held on September 7, impressing the audience with their unique visions to balance originality and marketability.
Out of 16 finalists, three winners were chosen to receive five awards by the panel of judges comprising VIP Judge Mihara Yasuhiro, as well as renowned media, stylists and industry professionals. With a balance of womenswear and menswear, from streetwear to edgier pieces, these designers together staged a spectacular showcase of the level of talents Hong Kong has to offer.
YDC 2019: A new generation of fashion stars are born
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The finalists found inspirations from unlikely places, from baseball gears to crisscrossing highways, from a discussion of queer to more philosophical musings. They presented drastically different aesthetics but their originality, attention to detail as well as excellent workmanship often belied their youthful years.
Champion & Best Footwear Design Award: Wilson Yip
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Entitled “Forgetful Still”, Yip has created a collection that addresses his own forgetfulness. He calls it an aesthetic of absentmindedness. The structure of clothing is redesigned down to the smallest details. The oversized silhouette and eye-catching spray stain-shaped appliques denote clumsiness but the belt in each outfit also allows for an optional smarter look.
The collars and hoods of the jackets are detachable, while buttonholes can be used to attach different accessories or keys. The baggy trousers are especially feature-rich, with details such as multiple pockets, exposed or frayed seams and lining, and magnetic buttons that automatically snap into place to avoid the embarrassment of the open fly.
As the YDC Champion, Yip has been rewarded with an internship at the studio of Mihara Yasuhiro, the Japanese designer label known for its popular sneakers and clothing collections.
The white sneakers that he created for this collection also won him the Best Footwear Design Award. As a prize, he will work with i.t Limited to launch a shoe collection based on this design.
First runner-up: Louis Chow
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Q: This menswear collection, titled “Already but not yet”, explores the process of design by blurring the boundaries between a finished work and unfinished garment, inside and outside, front and back, matt and glossy. You are also left to ponder how to classify each item. Is it a a top or a coat?
Chow takes familiar silhouettes and adds new twists, like blazer with shoulders that expose the lining, attached with a quilted scarf. A deconstructed trench coat uses interfacing materials with hand-stitched plaid patterns, while a two-way quilted coat/cape is also made from interfacing fabrics with quilted houndstooth pattern, which is an important motif throughout the collection. The trousers feature asymmetrical hems that again, highlight this inside-out aesthetic.
Chow’s first runner-up prize includes a study trip abroad.
Second runner-up and New Talent Award: Enzo Chan
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“1996″ is the title of this collection and the year that Chan was born. This menswear collection, filled with memories, symbolises his life journey. Personal photographs are digitally enhanced and turned into embroidery on t-shirts and jackets, which are teemed with details inside and out. The level of care and their prominence show how Chow treasures these memories. The oversized silhouette, multiple layers and subdued grey tones come from Chan’s personal style, while the use of dusty pink is an attempt to inject a sense of youth and vitality. The mix of fabrics is equally diverse, with suiting fabrics, knits and corduroy creating strong textural contrasts.
Chan has made an unusual styling choice of pairing oversized tops with baggy bottoms which he has handled with aplomb. The big sacks are practical while giving off a feel of a voyager.
As recipient of the New Talent Award, Chan will be developing a commercial version of this collection in collaboration with JOYCE Boutique to be made available for sale at the renowned retailer.
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FWO
Centrestage 2019 Concludes, Attracting 7,000 Buyers From 74 Countries
On-site survey: Celebrity endorsement, brand licensing and crossover are effective strategiesThe 2019 edition of Asia’s premier fashion event, CENTRESTAGE, drew to a successful close yesterday. The four-day event (4-7 September), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), brought about 240 fashion brands from 23 countries and regions to Hong Kong and attracted close to 7,000 buyers from 74 countries and regions. Those from Europe and Latin America recorded growth, reinforcing the show as an international promotional and launching platform for fashion brands.
The fourth edition of CENTRESTAGE (4-7 September) features about 240 fashion brands from 23 countries and regions, showcasing the latest fashion brands and designer collections from Asia and around the world, attracting close to 7,000 buyers from 74 countries and regions.
Centrestage
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Redress Design Award (above), the world’s largest sustainable fashion design competition, and the Knitwear Symphony 2019 and the ninth Hong Kong Young Knitwear Designers’ Contest (below), organised by the Knitwear Innovation and Design Society, are held during the event to nurture more budding talents.
“As a premium fashion event in Asia, CENTRESTAGE attracts many brands and buyers. It serves as a platform for industry players to exchange information and designers and brands to promote their products. A number of fashion shows were held during the fair period. Local designers and international brands showcased an incredible creative force, further raising Hong Kong’s status as Asia’s fashion hub,” said HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau.
“The HKTDC organised 36 buying missions comprising over 1,500 international fashion buyers to visit the fair, and pooled additional resources to strengthen business matching between exhibitors and buyers for more business opportunities,” he added.
Survey shows celebrity endorsement is effective strategy
The HKTDC commissioned an independent research agency to conduct an on-site survey during the show to gauge future product trends and the outlook for the fashion industry. Interviewing more than 300 exhibitors and buyers, the survey found the respondents believe that celebrity and key opinion leader (KOL) endorsement (40%), brand licensing (40%) and crossover (39%) are the most common and effective product development and sales strategies. On product trends, the survey found that 65% of the respondents expect casual wear and city wear to be the most popular product categories, followed by fashion accessories (18%) and high fashion (10%).
Nearly half of the survey respondents expect overall sales to remain steady, and more than 30% expect growth in the coming year. Fifty-seven per cent of the respondents expect sourcing prices or production costs to remain steady, while 35% expect growth. Sixty-five per cent of the respondents said they would not raise unit or retail prices, reflecting the general hesitancy in the industry to transfer the cost increase to customers.
European buyers looking for new Asian brands with potential
The central theme of CENTRESTAGE 2019 was “Future Tribes”, showing that designers’ efforts can make a fearless future by creating new identities through the use of culture, images and aesthetics as well as making modern and fashionable brands. In recent years, many Asian fashion brands have been entering the world fashion stage and gaining favour with buyers. The French boutique store Handsome Paris SAS sells about 60 fashion brands in France. David Kang, General Director of the store, came to CENTRESTAGE to inject more diversity in the store’s brand collection. He said that he learned more about Hong Kong brands through FASHIONALLY Collection #14 fashion show, and was interested in DEMO and NERCO POON’s designs. He also found VVISSI and will negotiate further after the fair. He expected to place initial orders of US$5,000-10,000 with each.
Raising the popularity of young fashion brands
More than 20 fashion shows were organised during the show’s four-day run. The spotlight opening gala show CENTRESTAGE ELITES saw the global launch of pre-spring 2020 collections on the runway from Hong Kong designer Anais Mak (Brand: ANAIS JOURDEN) as well as acclaimed New York designer Joseph Altuzarra (Brand: ALTUZARRA), attracting more than 1,000 industry players, celebrities and fashionistas. It was followed by the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show, featuring the latest Spring/Summer 2020 collections of Hong Kong designer labels that have participated in international fashion weeks.
One of the participating local labels, MEIKING NG, has participated in CENTRESTAGE since its first edition in 2016. June Ng, Founder and Chief Designer of the label, said that, as a Hong Kong designer, she enjoyed the home advantage in being able to grasp the opportunity to release her latest collection at the signature Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show, which is a desirable event to gain media exposure. She was also impressed by the HKTDC’s extensive publicity campaign and business matching meetings, through which she met with buyers from Italy and Ningxia and Wuhan in Mainland China. A buyer from an upscale department store in Paris was also interested in her label’s sunglasses collection. She noted that the event helps in building connections and finding partners.
To read more testimonials from exhibitors and buyers, please visit:
Exhibitors: https://bit.ly/2NvKbSv
Buyers: https://bit.ly/2McrVZC
About HKTDC
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit:www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn.
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With love,
FWO
CENTRESTAGE will host more than 30 fashion events in these three days, including a series of brand shows and seminars. The opening gala show on 9 September at 7pm, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, will see the global launch of the latest collections from two designer brands – Derek Chan and Mite Chan’s renowned brand DEMO from Hong Kong, as well as acclaimed Japanese designer Hideaki Shikama’s Children of the discordance. Both Derek Chan and Hideaki Shikama were chosen as the 10 Asian Designer to Watch in 2020 by Fashion Asia Hong Kong. Watch the show live on CENTRESTAGE website.
