A World of Phygital

powered by Vogue Hong Kong
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Welcome Message

CENTRESTAGE 2020 marks the fifth iteration of one of Asia’s premier fashion events. For the first time, the annual spectacle is taking place online, integrating imagination with technology to offer a digital experience and open up new possibilities for the industry.

The theme, ‘A World of Phygital’, highlights the creative combination of physical and digital elements in a fashion event that responds to prevailing circumstances. Free of spatial and temporal constraints, the new format enables buyers and fashionistas to view the latest designs anytime, anywhere while helping designers gain broader exposure and foster connections.

A total of 240 international designer labels and fashion brands are showcased. In the spotlight is a series of six virtual runway shows to be premiered to a worldwide audience. Designers’ latest collections are featured on an interactive digital platform jointly developed by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and our digital content partner Vogue Hong Kong.

Our thanks also go to Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, for its continued support to the local fashion community.

I hope CENTRESTAGE 2020 will offer a new experience that excites both established and emerging fashion designers as well as brings fresh perspectives to the industry as a whole.

Margaret Fong
Executive Director | Hong Kong Trade Development Council

A Brave New World

A new world is, naturally, defined by new boundaries. Phygital is at the forefront of it all. The term represents the hybrid of a physical and digital experience, and the way of life going forward. Fashion, which has long encapsulated the best of creativity, emotional resonance and passion, is also entering this Phygital era. 

CENTRESTAGE, which has been supporting both Hong Kong’s and international amazing creatives in the fashion industry, is proud to be on this journey by presenting A World of Phygital - putting our designers at the forefront of this experience. Watching a new generation of designers exploring sense and sensibility in this Phygital age creates a reality with a utopian vision. Those who dare to dream are able to create and shape their reality!  

Vogue Hong Kong is proud to be part of the conversation and connection with our fashion community. The world may be filled with uncertainties, but the spirit of creativity and passion will triumph against all odds. Let us make the brave new world, a better world!

Desiree Au
Publisher | VOGUE Hong Kong

YSANNE

With more than 30 years of experience in the fashion industry, Wang Mei-chu the designer has established her own label by stepping out from behind-the-scenes into the spotlight. Ysanne focuses on utilising high quality and natural materials, positioning itself as a sustainable fashion brand.

  • The fashion industry has officially welcomed the digital age. How do you feel about different brands experimenting with the phygital format?

    I believe technology stems from humanity and the evolution of phygital is reflecting the current consumer trends. To keep up with the pace of digitalisation, brands need to be able to offer both online and offline experiences at the same time, such as making use of digital signage, self-service scanners, QR code scanners, instruction panels, and apps for customers to access detailed product information. Another huge advantage of digitalisation is convenience—customers can place orders online and have their purchases delivered to the door, even when the products are not stocked in store.

  • How do you think independent brands or young designers should prepare for the phygital transition in fashion?

    Participating in new fashion weeks is the smartest way to communicate directly with professionals in the fashion industry, which will equip you with knowledge about how to optimise business operations. Therefore, we have to bear in mind that it is important to plan ahead and learn how to invest our resources in the right places.

  • How would you describe the style of your brand?

    Stark black and white, polka dot, stripes and geometric shapes are the signature visuals of Ysanne. In terms of materials, we work strictly with skin-friendly cotton linen and natural fibres only. With my 30 years of experience in design, I hope our customers can feel ethereal yet comfortable in our clothes. We want to help women who are indecisive in their fashion choices to recognise their own personal style.

  • What is the meaning behind your brand name?

    It was by chance that I came across the word Ysanne, which means “a gift from God” in Hebrew. I find it the perfect description of the sense of mission and accomplishment I feel as a fashion designer. I wish to share the fruits of high-quality production with others, giving back to society with what God has granted us.

  • What inspired you to make your pieces with all-natural fibres only?

    In the process of choosing the right fabric for each piece of clothing, I will consider how sustainable development can be achieved. By using biodegradable natural materials and quality cotton linen that is durable, we can attain sustainable production with an earth-friendly approach. I would say achieving sustainability is my biggest aspiration as a designer.

  • What are your plans for the future?

    Ysanne currently focuses mainly on womenswear, but we are also considering adding menswear to our portfolio, so men can also enjoy the stylish comfort of Ysanne.