Hong Kong Fashion Week was held January 14 to 17, 2019. Hong Kong Fashion Week is held every January and July as a trade show for women’s wear, men’s wear, children’s wear, lingerie, swimwear, evening wear, handbags, shoes, accessories, fabrics, buttons and labels. In this edition, the mood was subdued as exhibitors were facing uncertainties from the ongoing trade conflict between the United States and China as well as rapid changes in sourcing and retail models.

While US buyers were not as abundant as in the past, there were a number of attendees from Europe, Indonesia and Australia who roamed one vast hall filled with sparkling evening gowns, scads of sweaters, beaded handbags, rows of denim and pint-sized clothing for children. US tariffs on Chinese goods had affected buyers’ confidence levels in placing orders with Chinese factories. They were turning to sourcing from Vietnam.

Last year, the show added a corporate fashion and uniform zone, popular for its offerings of stylish and tailored company uniforms. That section was back this year as were sections for fashionable sportswear, thermal clothing, bridal and evening wear, intimate wear and swimwear.

One of the few exhibitors from India was Only For U Designs, showing colorful tunic tops. Usually some 25 Indian companies exhibit at the show.