Dior Delays Hong Kong Fashion Show Due to Government Concerns

The scheduled Dior fashion show in Hong Kong has been postponed, as confirmed by a local government official on Saturday. The hold-up is a setback for the economic aspirations of the financial hub, which was hoping to leverage major events for economic rejuvenation.

With the aim of reviving its tarnished image, Hong Kong is appealing to leading international personalities and brands. Its image has suffered due to prolonged civil unrest and stringent pandemic restrictions. The Dior fashion show, set to present the men's autumn collection under the direction of artistic director Kim Jones, was among the 'mega events' anticipated last month by Hong Kong's culture, sports and tourism Chief Kevin Yeung, as part of the city's initiative to become an event capital.

However, Yeung's office informed AFP Saturday that they had 'recently been informed' by organizers that the fashion show, originally set for March 23rd, would not proceed as planned. 'While there can be postponement of large-scale events, we remain open to hosting such events in Hong Kong,' a representative from Yeung’s office stated.

The South China Morning Post cites a company statement where Dior reveals the show has been 'indefinitely postponed' without offering specifics. The event was projected to cost approximately HK$100 million ($12.8 million) and attract nearly 1,000 attendees, according to SCMP.

In Hong Kong, Louis Vuitton hosted its men's pre-fall 2024 show in November, led by creative director Pharrell Williams, and attracting celebrity guests from China and South Korea. This well-publicized runway show was seen as a considerable boost to Hong Kong's international standing and an indication of the luxury giant’s commitment to Asian markets. LVMH, the parent company of Dior and Louis Vuitton, and the world's largest luxury goods group, reported record-breaking sales and profits in 2023, despite a slowdown in growth during the last six months.