HONG KONG - Asia's premier fashion event, CENTRESTAGE, officially opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), marking its 11th edition with a record-breaking convergence of some 270 international brands from 24 countries and regions. The four-day exhibition, running until 5 September, is open free of charge to both industry buyers and the public, inviting all to immerse themselves in the unique allure of Asia's fashion capital. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the HKSAR Government, CENTRESTAGE is a flagship programme of the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest.
The event features over 40 captivating events, including an unprecedented lineup of more than 30 runway shows, further cementing the fair’s international influence. Smilely Lam, Associate Executive Director of the HKTDC, highlighted the event's role in leveraging Hong Kong's unique advantages as an international business hub and superconnector. "We enable Hong Kong brands to connect with overseas buyers, while simultaneously attracting international labels to use Hong Kong as a springboard into Asia, fostering two-way collaboration and creating more business opportunities," she said.
A notable debut this year is the Hype2 pavilion, a dedicated zone spotlighting streetwear labels spearheaded by local celebrities and KOLs. Responding to the meteoric growth of streetwear driven by Gen Z consumers, the zone features brands such as Rosita Kwok’s Claro, Vincent Wong’s OGIS, Kelvin Kwan’s PICK AND MATCH, ROSEMA.ESE X Jaime Cheung, and Pakho Chau’s XPX. Some 30 limited-edition and debut products were launched during the fair, with a special "Hype2 Runway Show" scheduled for 4 September, bringing together over 10 streetwear brands with celebrity guest appearances.
The grand opening fashion show, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, spotlighted KIT WAN STUDIOS, a multidisciplinary design studio led by Hong Kong-born creative director and visual artist Kit Wan. Known for designing "stage armour" for artists at the Grammy Awards and Eurovision, Wan presented over 30 brand-new looks from his collection "MUTANT // MYTHOLOGY." The show was livestreamed across multiple platforms, and select pieces were displayed at the fairground. On 4 September, Wan will engage in a sharing session with Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, to explore his inspirations.
Korea joins as the "Featured Partner" with its largest-ever pavilion, organised by KOTRA, HISEOUL SHOWROOM, and the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea. The pavilion brings 12 renowned Seoul designer brands, including DOUCAN, ELNORE, and RE RH'EE, alongside the Gyeonggi Fashion Creative Studio. A thematic fashion show, "SEOUListic: The Future is Sustainable," will feature former IZ*ONE member Lee Chae-yeon as a guest performer. The exhibition also welcomes first-time participants from Austria, Colombia, the Faroe Islands, Malaysia, Slovakia, and the UAE, with 11 overseas pavilions in total.
The newly added Perfume zone gathers over 20 fragrance brands from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam making their Hong Kong retail debut, alongside local brand OCO. Visitors can sample scents at the Scent Station. The Accessories zone has been expanded, and other thematic zones include Craftsmanship, Contemporary, Urban, Athleisure, and Circular Fashion, the latter championing sustainability with local brand JESSE LEE presenting 3D-printed garments from upcycled fabrics. Select exhibitors offer retail sales, allowing the public to purchase designer pieces on the spot.
Beyond the runway shows, CENTRESTAGE serves as a crucial platform for industry exchange. The "Meet the Designer" session invites renowned Korean designer Rok Hwang to share his experience, while organisations like AiDLab and the Australian Fashion Council host seminars on sustainable fashion and fashion technology. Industry competitions, including the Redress Design Award 2026 and the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC) 2026, aim to unearth the next generation of fashion talent. The public can vote online for the "My Favourite Collection" award at the YDC, with a chance to win HK$2,000 Lee Gardens e-gift certificates.
Interactive zones, such as the Fashion Sound Lab and SNAPIO Stand, offer immersive experiences, while the French Cultural Salon at FIGARO Café provides a space for cultural exchange. The HKTDC continues to invite buyers from around the world, including major retailers like 10 Corso Como and Selfridges, to source at CENTRESTAGE. The event is held concurrently with the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TE, offering a one-stop shopping experience for fashion and luxury timepieces.
