Centrestage to open with a royal touch

Yu Wing Chan

The annual fashion event Centrestage is set to return to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from September 4 to 7.

The grand opening show, Centrestage Elites, will be hosted a day earlier, featuring local designer Robert Wun.

Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, Centrestage is a highlight of the Asian fashion scene.

The event will include fashion shows, tours, seminars, networking activities, and showcases by young local designers.

For the Centrestage Elites show, Wun will be presenting a collection themed "Home."

This marks the first-ever fashion show to be held at the Hong Kong Palace Museum.

Wun's new collection pays homage to his grandmother and is inspired by "the indomitable spirit and resilience of Hong Kong women, as well as our cultural balance of strength and elegance."

The designer also drew "significant influence from Hong Kong's music, television, and cinema." As the first local designer to have his creations showcased at Paris Haute Couture Week, Wun's appearance at Centrestage Elites marks his return to Hong Kong.

"Returning to present my collection here revives memories of the past decade - my experiences, persistence and reminiscences," he said, adding that his dream of becoming a fashion designer started in the city.

Wun has attained widespread recognition since launching his eponymous brand in 2014.

He made his debut at Paris Fashion Week last January and won recognition as one of fashion's most influential figures by Vogue Business 100 and Tatler Asia last year.

"As I celebrate my brand's 10th anniversary, I possess a sense of gratitude for my home," Wun said, adding that "this felt like the perfect moment to return and host this show, incorporating elements that Hongkongers would relate to."

In addition to showcasing his designs, Wun will also lead a masterclass on September 5, where he will share insights and experiences with attendees.