The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) launched the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest with the CENTRESTAGE ELITES opening gala, spotlighting KIT WAN STUDIOS in a display of sci-fi aesthetics and artistic innovation. Held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) on 2 September 2026, the event drew industry leaders, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts to witness the debut of over 30 new creations by the Hong Kong-born creative director Kit Wan.
Kit Wan, known for designing 'stage armour' for artists at international events like the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles and Eurovision in the United Kingdom, brought his multidisciplinary vision to the runway. The collection seamlessly blended futuristic elements with wearable art, set against the iconic Victoria Harbour backdrop. The show also featured a dedicated exhibition zone showcasing seven iconic stage costumes previously designed for Hong Kong artists such as Hins Cheung and Miriam Yeung, underscoring the studio's deep connection to the local music scene.
The event was graced by Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the HKSAR Government, as the Guest of Honour. The After Party kept the energy high with performances by electronic musician hirsk and Belgian model-musician Kim Peers, further cementing the night's status as a cultural milestone.
CENTRESTAGE, which runs from 2 to 5 September, is a flagship programme of Hong Kong Fashion Fest and is free to the public. The fair features over 40 events, including more than 30 runway shows and parades, offering a kaleidoscope of fashion experiences. On 4 September, Kit Wan will engage in a dialogue with Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, to discuss his creative process and expansion into overseas markets.
This year's CENTRESTAGE ELITES not only showcased Hong Kong's creative talent but also reinforced its position as Asia's fashion capital. The event was livestreamed across multiple platforms, allowing a global audience to witness the spectacle. For those unable to attend in person, replays are available on the CENTRESTAGE website and social media channels.
The gala's emphasis on merging art with fashion aligns with the broader goals of Hong Kong Fashion Fest, which aims to develop Hong Kong into a fashion design hub and foster cross-sectoral collaboration. As the city continues to position itself as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, events like CENTRESTAGE ELITES are crucial in attracting global talent and investment.
The show's success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the HKTDC, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), and the participating artists. With its innovative approach and international appeal, CENTRESTAGE 2026 is set to leave a lasting impact on the global fashion landscape, reinforcing Hong Kong's status as a premier destination for creative industries.
