The Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC) 2026 concluded in spectacular fashion on September 5, as part of CENTRESTAGE, Asia's premier fashion event. Ten finalists showcased collections that drew from personal experiences and inner emotions, with designs that echoed the theme 'YOU.' The event, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), attracted celebrities and industry figures who cheered on the participants.
After careful deliberation, the judging panel selected four major award winners. Tsui Ao Lung emerged as Champion with his collection 'The Tide,' inspired by a classic Cantopop hit. His work depicted the ebbs and flows of a woman's life through four stages, using artisanal materials that departed from mainstream fabrics. Tsui expressed exhaustion and delight, noting that the award would bring visibility but more importantly, the contest helped him discover his future direction.
Cheang King Tung, Kenneth received both the Excellence Award and the Best Art Direction Award for his collection 'NOSTALGIA,' inspired by the 1983 film Nostalghia. The work explores homeland, distance, and yearning, translating memories of Hong Kong into clothing through hand-dyeing and experimental treatments. Cheang remarked that his non-mainstream work gaining mainstream recognition affirmed his creative direction.
Lam Chun Ni, Jenny won the My Favourite Collection Award for 'The Old Si-Fut and New Chai,' which examines Hong Kong's workplace culture and the dynamic between veterans and rookies. Her design incorporated workplace dictums into garment structures, capturing the tension between conformity and rebellion. Lam thanked voters, noting the universal resonance of the theme.
The judging panel was chaired by Katherine Fang, with VIP Judge Rok Hwang, founder of ROKH, praising the show's energy and the fusion of Hong Kong culture with creative expression. Overseas Judge Olya Kuryshchuk reviewed entries remotely. Mentors Alex Po and Derek Cheng provided guidance throughout the competition.
MINI HK, lead sponsor for ten years, celebrated the milestone by inviting nine YDC alumni to design car-wrap graphics for the All Electric MINI Cooper and Aceman, with the tenth created by the YDC winner, reinforcing the 'Express Yourself' philosophy. The grand finale also featured a stage programme with local actors and MINI owners sharing their stories.
The event highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent and promoting Hong Kong as a fashion hub. The third Hong Kong Fashion Fest, under the theme 'Rhythm of the Heart,' will continue through September 14, bringing together eight flagship programmes. For more photos, visit this link. Additional information is available on the HKTDC Newsroom.
