The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) launched the annual CENTRESTAGE fashion event with a star-studded opening gala, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) on 2 September 2026. This year's show spotlighted KIT WAN STUDIOS, a multidisciplinary design studio led by Hong Kong-born creative director Kit Wan. The runway presentation featured over 30 new looks that blended artistic creation with sci-fi aesthetics, set against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour.
The event marks a significant moment for Hong Kong's fashion industry, as it underscores the city's growing influence in global fashion. Kit Wan, who has designed stage costumes for artists performing at the Grammy Awards and Eurovision, brings international recognition to Hong Kong design. His studio's roster includes collaborations with prominent Hong Kong artists such as Miriam Yeung, Hins Cheung, MC Cheung, and Panther Chan. The opening gala also included an exhibition zone displaying seven iconic stage costumes previously created by the studio for these artists, highlighting the intersection of fashion and music.
Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the HKSAR Government, attended as the Guest of Honour, alongside a constellation of celebrities and fashion industry leaders. The After Party featured performances by electronic musician hirsk and model-musician Kim Peers, adding to the event's allure.
CENTRESTAGE, now in its third edition as part of the Hong Kong Fashion Fest, runs from 2 to 5 September at the HKCEC. The fair is open to both industry professionals and the public free of charge, offering over 40 events, including more than 30 runway shows and parades. This year's event is particularly notable for its fusion of fashion with cultural and creative industries, supported by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA).
The implications of this event extend beyond the runway. It signals Hong Kong's ambition to solidify its position as Asia's fashion capital and an East-meets-West center for international cultural exchange. By showcasing local talent like KIT WAN STUDIOS on a global stage, the event aims to attract international buyers and media, fostering business opportunities for designers and brands. Kit Wan's success in international markets serves as an inspiration for other Hong Kong designers, demonstrating that the city's creative talent can compete globally.
On 4 September, Kit Wan will engage in a dialogue with Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, to discuss creative inspiration and his expansion into overseas markets. This conversation is expected to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Hong Kong designers in the global fashion industry.
For those unable to attend, CENTRESTAGE offers various digital platforms to experience the event. The livestream of the ELITES show can be viewed on the CENTRESTAGE website. Additionally, updates and highlights are available on the CENTRESTAGE Instagram and HKTDC Exhibition Channel Facebook page, as well as the HKTDC YouTube channel.
The event also highlights the collaborative spirit of Hong Kong's cultural sectors. The government's support through CCIDA underscores a strategic focus on nurturing talent and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration. By integrating fashion with other creative industries, CENTRESTAGE aims to create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits designers, artists, and the broader economy.
As CENTRESTAGE continues through the week, its impact on Hong Kong's fashion landscape is expected to be profound, offering a platform for emerging designers and reinforcing the city's reputation as a hub for creativity and innovation.
