- Showcasing the Pinnacle of Fashion Artistry

Organized by the Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association (HKFDA) and sponsored by Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, "VIRTUOSE: The Artistry of Couture" will take place on November 25th at The Henderson, a new iconic building in Central.

As a cornerstone of the inaugural Hong Kong Fashion Fest, this ground-breaking couture fashion show aims to connect the fashion circles of Mainland China, Hong Kong, and the global community. It presents a rare opportunity to appreciate the exceptional craftsmanship of couture designers worldwide while positioning Hong Kong as a pivotal fashion hub and a cultural bridge between East and West, ultimately benefiting the local economy.

A Tribute to Couture Fashion

Couture is an essential aspect of the dynamic fashion industry, embodying the core aspirations of designers—creativity, craftsmanship, and quality. These enduring values will be beautifully showcased at the event, reflecting the cultural backgrounds and artistic expressions of the designers. Chief Executive Mr. John Lee recently noted that "talent is the prime resource and driving force that boosts economic development and competitiveness," a sentiment that resonates deeply within the fashion community, where innovation drives new designs.

Through "VIRTUOSE: The Artistry of Couture," the HKFDA aims to establish an international fashion exchange platform in Hong Kong. Four renowned international couture designers—Charles de Vilmorin from France, Mohamed Benchellal from the Netherlands, Cheney Chan from Mainland China, and Kay Kwok from Hong Kong—will share their insights and experiences within Hong Kong’s vibrant fashion landscape. They will highlight how the city’s advantages, including its status as a financial center, shipping hub, and innovation hotspot, create unique opportunities for growth and collaboration.

With the total number of travelers in Hong Kong increasing by 64% year-on-year to 21 million in the first half of 2024, an anticipated 1.7 million participants are expected to attend the city’s mega events, contributing over HK$7.2 billion in spending, according to government data. “Hong Kong's domestic clothing exports also experienced a 28% growth in 2023 compared to 2022,” says Mr. Yeung. “We believe that events like VIRTUOSE are crucial in attracting global buyers and showcasing Hong Kong's unique position and talent on the world fashion stage. As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we aim to reaffirm our presence in the industry and reimagine our future through haute couture, highlighting the exceptional talent of our designers and our city's strengths as a hub for creativity and finance.”

The Intersection of Four Fashion Cultures

“As an 'East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange,' Hong Kong plays a vital role in advancing the fashion design industry,” notes Mr. Yeung. The city's rich cultural environment allows local designers to draw inspiration from diverse influences, enhancing their creative output.

The international designers will embody the cultural diversity that shapes their work, reflecting personal styles and the rich history of fashion. As Hong Kong positions itself as a talent hub, it showcases its appeal within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, a mega events capital, and a city known for its favorable tax regime and quality education and healthcare services.

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