As branding becomes more and more important in today’s business environment, so HKTDC World Boutique, Hong Kong continues to extend its influence. Set to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2012, this annual event is the platform in Asia for the promotion of designer collections and the strengthening of brand image in fashion, accessories and lifestyle products.

Launch pad
It draws brands and designers from around the globe, eager to take advantage of the business it enables through its expert capabilities. Among the top brands on display in the 2011 fair were Qinyi from the Chinese mainland, tokyoeye from Japan, Golfjunkie from the Netherlands, and Anagram, mademoiselle, MODELE de PRUDENCE and G2000 from Hong Kong, plus many more. Here exhibitors can meet a wide range of buyers interested in fresh ideas, the latest trends, innovative designs and creative concepts.

Quality buyers
Buyers include representatives of major retail groups, including department stores, chain stores and independent but influential boutiques in a wide range of markets both mature and emerging.

Key showcase
The 2011 edition of the show attracted 410 brands from 14 countries and regions, and drew in 13,388 buyers from 82 countries and regions. A number of group pavilions took part, namely the Council of Fashion Designers, Tokyo; the Federation of Hong Kong Footwear, Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association, Hong Kong Fur Federation; and Taiwan Textile Federation.

Fashion buzz
There’s plenty of buzz around World Boutique, thanks to the staging of an array of fashion shows. These creative events – including house and group shows – add an air of excitement and anticipation and offer plenty of inspiration. In addition, major international trend-forecasting agencies take part in a series of seminars looking ahead to future seasons. Other presentations cover market intelligence and technological updates.

Glittering 2011 highlights
The star-studded grand show, Hong Kong Fashion Extravaganza, featured four internationally celebrated fashion designers: Keita Maruyama from Japan, Doii Lee from Korea, Alex Wang from the Chinese mainland and Barney Cheng from Hong Kong. As always, the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest attracted plenty of enthusiastic support, eager to see the creations of the latest crop of youthful Hong Kong talent. The VIP judge of the contest was Martine Sitbon, Creative Director of Rue du Mail.

Two for one
World Boutique, Hong Kong takes place alongside the well-established HKTDC Hong Kong Fashion Week for Fall/Winter, staging its 43rd event in 2012. This event is a “must-attend” for huge numbers of fashion buyers, looking for everything from mass-market apparel and accessories to high-end designer gowns. World Boutique offers these buyers new and exciting sourcing opportunities.