On behalf of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Dutch Fashion Foundation and Modint Export presented an exclusive salon program in Hong Kong with a selection of fashion labels representing a broad cross-section of Dutch fashion. The Dutch Fashion Soirée was a highlight event of the Open Minds program, the Dutch representation at the Hong Kong Business of Design Week. On Wednesday December 10th 2008 fashion designers Bas Kosters, Hans Ubbink, Mada van Gaans, Monique Collignon, Van Markoviec, Catta Donkersloot and Claes Iversen presented their latest collections at the exclusive restaurant SEVVA, located in the prime heart of the city overlooking the Hong Kong skyline. Director of the Dutch Fashion Foundation Angelique Westerhof was invited to present a lecture during the Business of Design Week.
The Dutch Fashion Soirée introduced a selection of Dutch fashion labels participating in the Business of Design Week which are expanding into the Far Eastern markets. This exclusive event shaped a platform for innovation and inspiration, bringing together the allure of the fashion collections, the beautiful location, inspiring foods and a select audience. There were over twenty Dutch fashion labels participating in the Open Minds Business of Design Week trade mission. Some were already active on the Hong Kong market looking to expand their business here and in Mainland China, others were orienting on new sourcing and sales opportunities. A group too extensive to show all on one evening, a selection has been made to give an insight in the broad variety and many faces that the Dutch fashion discipline has to offer, varying from a taste of the Dutch fashion education through Fashion Institute Arnhem (ArtEZ Fashion Masters) alumni, innovative menswear, sustainable fashion, a represent of the established Haute Couture, as well as emerging design talents. The selected designers have shown their international ambition, have a unique and innovative signature and a collection accessible for the Far East consumer with a taste for style and appreciation for innovation.
The Business of Design Week is the leading design event of Asia and in 2008 the Netherlands was partner country contributing with its ‘Open Minds’ programme and together produced a wealth of exhibitions, seminars and other events just over the course of a few days. The BODW 2008 seeked to contribute to further strengthening the position of Chinese and international creative sectors by sharing the successes of Dutch design. The Dutch Fashion Soirée was opened by the Dutch Minister of Foreign Trade Frank Heemskerk.