Hong Kong Fashion Fest 2024: Celebrating 30 Years of Shanghai Tang
Fête Chinoise Exclusive: On the Ground in Hong Kong at the Inaugural Fashion Fest
Written by Deirdre Kelly
Photography: Hong Kong Fashion Fest
Shanghai Tang, the Hong Kong luxury fashion house founded in 1994 by the late David Tang, a prominent figure in modern Chinese fashion, has established itself as a significant player in contemporary Chinese culture.
Known for its vibrant cheongsams, mandarin-collar shirts, and luxurious homewares—including fine bone china and decorative items—the brand offers a modern interpretation of Chinese heritage.
Traditional Chinese Influences
With flagship stores in major cities across Asia, including Shanghai, Beijing, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai Tang has positioned itself as a leader in redefining Chinese chic.
On Tuesday night, the brand’s enduring dedication to celebrating Chinese heritage was highlighted at its 30th anniversary party held at PMQ, a creative hub in Hong Kong that showcases design and innovation.
Opening Moments
Kevin Yeung, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Vivian Sun, Alan See, Victor Tsang, and other guests celebrating the brand
Do Do Cheng
The event drew in many fans of the brand, among them Alan See, cofounder of menswear The Armoury, who turned heads in a Tang shirt, Hong Kong influencer Declan Chan in an ivory shorts suit, PR company founder Colleen Yu in a silk blouse and creative director Victoria Tang-Owen — David Tang’s daughter— in houndstooth. Raising a congratulatory glass were prominent politicians such as Vivian Sun, permanent secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism and, from the same government portfolio, Kevin Yeung, whose tailored suit recalled the brand’s origins as a bespoke tailor shop inspired by the glamour of 1930s Shanghai.
Jade Leung
Colleen Yu and Victoria Tang
Some of the brand’s history is captured in A Journey of Rediscovery, a curated display of Shanghai Tang’s greatest hits that opened alongside the anniversary festivities on November 26.
Running until December 15, A Journey of Rediscovery invites visitors to explore Shanghai Tang’s rich heritage and its impact on global luxury design. The interactive exhibition features a highlight: the Augmented Reality (AR) Try-On Room, where guests can virtually fit into 14 of Shanghai Tang’s most renowned archival pieces, including the iconic Tang Jacket. This innovative experience allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and intricate details of each garment in a dynamic way.
In addition to immersive technology, the exhibition showcases thematic displays that celebrate the brand’s signature Ginger Flower fragrance and whimsical pieces from Imperial Couture, blending historical influences with contemporary artistry. A collaboration with contemporary artist Xu Bing is also featured, where his Square Word Calligraphy transforms English words into a visual format resembling traditional Chinese characters, enriching the cultural narrative of the brand.
Visitors will also discover handbags inspired by traditional Chinese knots and custom dresses designed for such high-profile figures as Nicole Kidman, reinforcing Shanghai Tang’s prominence in both domestic and international fashion. Together, these elements create a captivating environment that celebrates three decades of cultural innovation.
In recent years, Shanghai Tang has faced challenges stemming from shifts in market dynamics and changes in ownership following its founder’s death in 2017. But at the anniversary celebration, there was palpable pride in Shanghai Tang’s resilience and its ability to redefine modern Chinese luxury, affirming a legacy that continues to resonate.
Suk Yee Cheung
Utah Lee
Declan Chan
The Nicole Kidman dress
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