Hong Kong's premier fashion event, CENTRESTAGE, kicked off with a spectacular opening gala, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) on 2 September 2026. Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), this year's show spotlighted KIT WAN STUDIOS, a multidisciplinary design studio led by Hong Kong-born creative director Kit Wan. The event not only showcased over 30 new creations but also signaled Hong Kong's ambition to cement its status as Asia's fashion capital.
The runway presentation, set against the iconic Victoria Harbour backdrop, seamlessly blended artistic expression with futuristic and sci-fi aesthetics, captivating a star-studded audience. Kit Wan, known for designing 'stage armour' for international artists at events like the Grammy Awards and Eurovision, brought his unique vision home. The collection featured bold silhouettes, metallic textures, and avant-garde elements, pushing the boundaries of conventional fashion. Select pieces from the show will be on display at the fairground throughout the event (Booth No.: 3D-D06), offering attendees a closer look at the intricate craftsmanship.
Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the HKSAR Government, attended as the Guest of Honour, underscoring the government's support for the creative industries. The evening was further enlivened by performances from electronic musician hirsk and Belgian model-musician Kim Peers, while a dedicated exhibition zone showcased seven iconic stage costumes previously designed by the studio for Hong Kong artists like Hins Cheung and Miriam Yeung, highlighting the deep connection between fashion and the local music scene.
Beyond the glitz, CENTRESTAGE serves as a vital platform for industry networking and business opportunities. The four-day fair, open free to both professionals and the public, features over 40 events, including more than 30 runway shows. On 4 September, Kit Wan will engage in a dialogue with Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, discussing creative inspiration and strategies for expanding into overseas markets—a testament to CENTRESTAGE's role in fostering global connections.
This year's CENTRESTAGE is a flagship programme of the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest, which runs from 1 to 14 September under the theme 'Rhythm of the Heart'. The integration of these events aims to develop Hong Kong into a fashion design hub, leveraging its unique position as an East-meets-West cultural crossroads. By attracting international designers, buyers, and media, CENTRESTAGE not only boosts local brands but also reinforces Hong Kong's status as a prime destination for mega cultural and creative events.
The implications of this year's CENTRESTAGE ELITES extend beyond the runway. It demonstrates Hong Kong's resilience and creativity in the post-pandemic era, as well as its ability to attract global talent and investment. The collaboration between KIT WAN STUDIOS and international artists exemplifies the cross-cultural exchange that Hong Kong fosters. As the city celebrates the 60th anniversary of the HKTDC, events like CENTRESTAGE are pivotal in driving economic growth through the creative industries, aligning with the government's vision to promote industrialization of arts and culture.
For those unable to attend in person, the organisers provided live streams across multiple platforms, ensuring the spectacle reached a global audience. The full schedule and updates are available on the official CENTRESTAGE website, and the Instagram page offers behind-the-scenes content. As CENTRESTAGE continues through 5 September, it remains a testament to Hong Kong's vibrant fashion scene and its potential to shape global trends.
