The 11th edition of CENTRESTAGE, Asia’s premier fashion event, officially kicked off today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), running until September 5. Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), the event has attracted a record-breaking 270 international brands from 24 countries and regions. For the first time, the exhibition is open free of charge to both industry buyers and the public, inviting all to experience the latest trends.
This year’s CENTRESTAGE introduces the Hype2 pavilion, a dedicated zone spotlighting streetwear labels led by local celebrities and KOLs, including Rosita Kwok’s Claro, Vincent Wong’s OGIS, Kelvin Kwan’s PICK AND MATCH, ROSEMA.ESE X Jaime Cheung, and Pakho Chau’s XPX. Over 30 limited-edition and debut products are being launched, and a special Hype2 Runway Show will take place on September 4. This move responds to the meteoric growth of streetwear driven by Gen Z consumers who value self-expression and emotional resonance.
The grand opening fashion show, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, featured KIT WAN STUDIOS, led by Hong Kong-born creative director Kit Wan. Known for designing “stage armour” for artists at the Grammy Awards and Eurovision, Kit Wan presented over 30 brand-new looks from his collection “MUTANT // MYTHOLOGY.” The show was livestreamed across multiple platforms, and on September 4, Kit Wan will join Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, for a sharing session.
Korea is serving as CENTRESTAGE’s Featured Partner for the first time, with the largest-ever Korean pavilion. Jointly organized by KOTRA, HISEOUL SHOWROOM, and the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea, the pavilion brings 12 renowned Seoul designer brands and 10 brands from the Gyeonggi Fashion Creative Studio. A thematic fashion show, “SEOUListic: The Future is Sustainable,” will be held on September 4, featuring former IZ*ONE member Lee Chae-yeon as a guest performer.
In addition to Korea, the event hosts 11 overseas pavilions, including first-time participants from Austria, Colombia, the Faroe Islands, Malaysia, Slovakia, and the UAE. The Austrian pavilion, coordinated by the Austrian Trade Commission, features brands like Woody and My Magpie. The Canadian pavilion showcases high-end, female-founded brands such as Iris Setlakwe and Devlyn Van Loon. The Thai pavilion returns with 14 brands, including KANZ BY THAITOR.
This year’s exhibition features seven thematic zones, including a new Perfume zone with over 20 fragrance brands from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam making their Hong Kong retail debut. The fair also offers a Scent Station for visitors to sample fragrances. Other zones include Accessories, Craftsmanship, Contemporary, Urban, Athleisure, and Circular Fashion, each highlighting diverse styles and sustainability efforts.
With over 40 events, including a historic high of more than 30 fashion shows, CENTRESTAGE serves as a crucial platform for industry exchange. Highlights include the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show, FASHIONALLY presentations, and seminars on sustainable fashion and technology. The Redress Design Award 2026 Grand Final and the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest (YDC) 2026 will also take place, unearthing new talent.
The exhibition also features interactive zones such as the Fashion Sound Lab, SNAPIO Stand, and FIGARO Café, offering immersive experiences. The HKTDC has invited major buyers from around the world, including B1OCK and Dongliang from China, 10 Corso Como from Italy, and Dover Street Market London and Selfridges from the UK, to source at the fair.
CENTRESTAGE is held concurrently with the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TE, providing a one-stop shopping experience. The event underscores Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s fashion and creative hub, leveraging its unique advantages as an international business hub and superconnector.
