The Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC) 2026 concluded with a spectacular finale at CENTRESTAGE, Asia's premier annual fashion event, held from 1 to 14 September 2026 in Hong Kong. Ten emerging local designers competed, drawing from personal experiences and inner emotions to create collections that told unique stories through distinctive tailoring and materials. The event, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), showcased a diverse range of styles that echoed this year's theme, "YOU."
Tsui Ao Lung was crowned Champion for his collection "The Tide," inspired by the classic Cantopop hit "Kuang Chao." The collection depicted the ebbs, flows, and turbulence of human existence through the four stages of a woman's life. Tsui, who received a cash prize of HK$60,000 and an overseas internship sponsored by Fang Brothers Knitting Ltd., expressed his exhaustion and delight: "My immediate feeling upon winning is sheer exhaustion, as this collection required extensive handcrafting. I deliberately chose artisanal materials that are a stark departure from mainstream fabrics. I believe this award will bring more visibility, but more importantly, participating in YDC has helped me truly discover my future direction and the design aesthetic I am committed to pursuing."
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 explored concepts of homeland, distance, and yearning, translating his memories of Hong Kong into clothing. Through hand-dyeing and experimental material treatments, each piece documented the passage of time and the connection between people and the city. Cheang noted, "Participating in this year's YDC has been incredibly rewarding. I am very happy that my non-mainstream work has gained mainstream recognition on the YDC platform, which further affirms my future creative direction." He received HK$40,000 for the Excellence Award and HK$10,000 plus a five-day course at VOGUE College of Fashion in London for the Best Art Direction Award.
The "My Favourite Collection" Award, decided by public voting, went to Lam Chun Ni, Jenny for "The Old Si-Fut and New Chai," a collection set against Hong Kong's workplace culture. It explored the dynamic between veteran "old-timers" and "rookies," translating common workplace dictums into design elements. Lam, who received a HK$30,000 Lee Gardens Area e-Gift Certificate sponsored by Hysan, expressed gratitude: "Joining YDC has given me many opportunities for growth and exposure. Perhaps the 'old-timer' workplace phenomenon resonates deeply with everyone, and I am incredibly grateful to everyone who voted for me."
The judging panel, chaired by Katherine Fang, Chairlady of the HKTDC Garment Advisory Committee, included VIP Judge Rok Hwang, founder and Creative Director of ROKH, who praised the contestants: "YDC is an outstanding stage for young fashion designers. The show was energetic and inspiring, showcasing a brilliant mixture of Hong Kong culture and creative energy." Other judges included Tracey Cheng of I.T, Jonathan Lee of The Molecule, Cherry Mui of Vogue Hong Kong, and Kieran Ho of PURPLE.
Mentoring the finalists were Alex Po and Derek Cheng, founders of PONDER.ER, who provided valuable guidance. MINI HK, lead sponsor for ten consecutive years, celebrated by inviting nine YDC alumni to create car-wrap graphics for the All Electric MINI Cooper and MINI Aceman, with the tenth design by YDC 2026's MINI-sponsored award winner. This collaboration highlighted the theme "YOU." and MINI HK's "Express Yourself" philosophy. The grand finale also featured a special stage programme with local actors and MINI owners, creating an inspiring experience.
This year's YDC, a flagship event of the third Hong Kong Fashion Fest, concluded on 5 September, reinforcing Hong Kong's position as Asia's creative capital. For more photos from the grand finale, visit: https://bit.ly/466pyDc. For more information on CENTRESTAGE and YDC, visit www.centrestage.com.hk and www.fashionally.com/en/YDC, respectively.
