CENTRESTAGE ELITES Showcases KIT WAN STUDIOS' Sci-Fi Fashion Spectacle

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) kicked off the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest with the CENTRESTAGE ELITES opening gala, held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) on September 2, 2026. The event showcased a runway presentation by KIT WAN STUDIOS, a multidisciplinary design and visual arts studio led by Hong Kong-born creative director and visual artist Kit Wan. The show featured over 30 brand-new looks that merged futuristic and sci-fi aesthetics against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour.

KIT WAN STUDIOS has established a formidable reputation by designing stage costumes for prominent Hong Kong artists, including Miriam Yeung, Hins Cheung, MC Cheung, and Panther Chan. The studio's work has also reached international stages, with designs appearing at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles and the Eurovision Song Contest in the United Kingdom. This global exposure underscores the growing influence of Hong Kong design in the international fashion and entertainment industries.

The gala was attended by Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the HKSAR Government, as the Guest of Honour, alongside a constellation of celebrities, artists, and fashion industry leaders. Following the runway show, an after-party featured performances by renowned Hong Kong electronic musician hirsk and Belgian model and musician Kim Peers. An exhibition zone at the venue displayed seven iconic stage costumes previously designed by KIT WAN STUDIOS for artists like Hins Cheung and Miriam Yeung, highlighting the studio's deep ties with Hong Kong's music scene.

CENTRESTAGE, which runs from September 2 to 5, is open to both industry professionals and the public free of charge. The fair includes a variety of over 40 events, including more than 30 runway shows and parades. On September 4, Kit Wan will participate in a dialogue with Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, to discuss his creative inspirations and strategies for expanding his brand into overseas markets.

The opening gala was livestreamed across multiple platforms, allowing a global audience to experience the spectacle. For those who missed the live broadcast, replays are available on the CENTRESTAGE website, as well as on CENTRESTAGE Instagram, the HKTDC Exhibition Channel Facebook Page, and the HKTDC YouTube Channel.

The significance of this event extends beyond the fashion spectacle. It highlights the collaborative efforts of the HKTDC and the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) in promoting Hong Kong as Asia's creative capital. With Hong Kong Fashion Fest running from September 1 to 14, the integration of CENTRESTAGE into the broader festival aims to strengthen synergies across the fashion industry. This initiative supports the HKSAR Government's vision to develop Hong Kong into a fashion design hub, as outlined in the 2023 Policy Address.

The presence of international designers, buyers, and media at CENTRESTAGE underscores Hong Kong's role as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC, celebrating its 60th anniversary, continues to organize international exhibitions and conferences to create business opportunities for SMEs in mainland and international markets. By hosting events like CENTRESTAGE, Hong Kong reinforces its position as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, fostering collaboration and innovation in the fashion and creative industries.