The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) inaugurated CENTRESTAGE, Asia's premier annual fashion event, with the CENTRESTAGE ELITES gala on September 2, 2026, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The event, sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), is a flagship programme of the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest, which runs from September 1 to 14. The opening show featured KIT WAN STUDIOS, a multidisciplinary design studio led by Hong Kong-born creative director and visual artist Kit Wan, known for creating stage costumes for artists such as Miriam Yeung, Hins Cheung, MC Cheung, and Panther Chan.
The presentation showcased over 30 brand-new looks that blended artistic creation with fashion design, set against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour. The runway embraced futuristic and sci-fi aesthetics, reflecting Kit Wan's unique vision. Select pieces from the collection will be displayed at the fairground throughout the event at Booth No. 3D-D06. The show was graced by Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the HKSAR Government, as the Guest of Honour, along with a constellation of celebrities, artists, and fashion heavyweights.
Beyond the runway, a dedicated exhibition zone at the venue displayed seven iconic stage costumes previously designed by KIT WAN STUDIOS for artists like Hins Cheung and Miriam Yeung, underscoring the studio's deep ties with Hong Kong's music scene. The After Party featured live performances by renowned Hong Kong electronic musician hirsk and Belgian model and musician Kim Peers, adding to the night's allure.
Kit Wan's work has taken Hong Kong design to global stages, including designing for artists at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles and the Eurovision Song Contest in the United Kingdom. This international recognition highlights Hong Kong's creative talent and its potential to influence global fashion and entertainment industries. On Friday, September 4, Kit Wan will engage in a dialogue with Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, to share insights on creative inspiration and expanding his brand into overseas markets. This session is expected to provide valuable perspectives for industry professionals and aspiring designers.
CENTRESTAGE is open to both industry professionals and the public free of charge for four days, featuring over 40 events, including more than 30 runway shows and parades. The event attracts local, mainland Chinese, and overseas visitors, reinforcing Hong Kong's status as Asia's fashion capital. The HKTDC, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, organizes this event as part of its mission to promote Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The CCIDA, established in June 2024, supports the cultural and creative sectors, aiming to foster a conducive environment and reinforce Hong Kong's position as Asia's creative capital.
The integration of CENTRESTAGE into Hong Kong Fashion Fest, announced in the 2023 Policy Address, aims to develop Hong Kong into a fashion design hub in Asia. By consolidating various fashion events and introducing innovative elements, the festival promotes local fashion brands and boosts Hong Kong's appeal as a destination for mega cultural and creative events. This collaboration between six industry organizations and the HKTDC is expected to generate stronger synergies, attract global players, and create business opportunities, thereby consolidating Hong Kong's position as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
The livestream of the CENTRESTAGE ELITES performance is available on multiple platforms, including the CENTRESTAGE website (CENTRESTAGE livestream) and social media channels. Photo downloads and further information about the event can be accessed through the official HKTDC media resources.
