The third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest commenced with a spectacular opening gala, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) on 2 September 2026. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), the event set the stage for a week-long celebration of fashion, bringing together industry leaders, celebrities, and enthusiasts. This year's CENTRESTAGE ELITES spotlighted KIT WAN STUDIOS, a multidisciplinary design and visual arts studio helmed by Hong Kong-born creative director and visual artist Kit Wan. The show featured over 30 brand-new creations that blended futuristic and sci-fi aesthetics against the iconic Victoria Harbour backdrop, underscoring Hong Kong's position as Asia's fashion capital.
Kit Wan's studio has gained international recognition for designing "stage armour" for artists at prestigious events such as the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles and Eurovision in the United Kingdom, bringing Hong Kong design to a global audience. The studio's collaborative roster includes notable Hong Kong artists like Miriam Yeung, Hins Cheung, MC Cheung, and Panther Chan, reflecting deep ties with the local music scene. At the gala, a dedicated exhibition zone showcased seven iconic stage costumes previously designed for artists such as Hins Cheung and Miriam Yeung, highlighting the intersection of fashion and music. The opening night was further elevated by performances from renowned electronic musician hirsk and Belgian model-musician Kim Peers, while Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the HKSAR Government, attended as the Guest of Honour.
The CENTRESTAGE fair, which runs from 2 to 5 September, is open to both industry professionals and the public free of charge. It features over 40 captivating events, including more than 30 runway shows and parades, offering a diverse platform for local, Mainland, and international designers. On 4 September, Kit Wan will engage in a dialogue with Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, to discuss creative inspiration and strategies for expanding into overseas markets. This session underscores the event's role in fostering industry dialogue and business opportunities.
The significance of CENTRESTAGE extends beyond the runway. As a flagship programme of Hong Kong Fashion Fest, which runs from 1 to 14 September under the theme "Rhythm of the Heart," the event consolidates various fashion design events to promote Hong Kong as a fashion design hub. The festival brings together eight flagship programmes organised by six industry organisations, creating synergies that attract global fashion players. This year's collaboration with CENTRESTAGE marks a milestone in strengthening Hong Kong's position as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
For those unable to attend in person, the organisers livestreamed the CENTRESTAGE ELITES performance across multiple platforms, ensuring wider access. The fair also offers buyer online registration, reflecting its commitment to facilitating business connections. With its blend of artistic innovation and commercial vitality, CENTRESTAGE continues to reinforce Hong Kong's status as a leading fashion destination.
For more information about CENTRESTAGE and Hong Kong Fashion Fest, visit the official websites: CENTRESTAGE and Fashion Hong Kong.
