24th November marked the opening of the 2025 4th Hong Kong Denim Festival at Ocean Terminal Deck, featuring a catwalk presentation that captured the energy and ambition of the festival. Sponsored by the CCIDA and supported by the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI) and HK Fashion Fest, the opening ceremony was set against the harbour presence of Hong Kong, introducing the tone and a wave of a new generation of designers unafraid to challenge convention.
From Tyson Yoshi’s special appearance to performances by Pandora and Hung Kaho, the night unfolded as a multisensory expression of Hong Kong’s creative pulse, drawing together fashion, music, and movement in a way that felt internationally expansive while still close to home.
At the heart of the night was the runway itself, where Global Denim Talent Programme (GDTP) designers sent bold, structured, and forward-looking designs down the catwalk. MC’ed by Vincent Tang, the show reflected a deep appreciation for the history and evolution of denim, while pushing its boundaries through contemporary form and experimentation. From here, the focus naturally turns to the designers themselves and the materials that enabled them to rethink denim for a new era.
THE DESIGNERS
We had the opportunity to have a sit-down talk with designers Jasmine and Max from this year’s festival to understand more about their process, inspirations, creations, and craftsmanship.
Jasmine, Cheuk Tsz Fa
In a world where trends come and go, Jasmine Cheuk Tsz Fa’s passion for artistic fashion speaks for itself. She knows how to draw inspiration from her life and express her voice through her collections. Jasmine’s journey as a designer is deeply intertwined with her life experiences and cherished relationships. “My creations stem from the emotions and stories of those around me,” she explains. The experiences of her friends are not just sources of inspiration; they are fundamental to her artistic voice.
With her latest collection, “Folded Rings: Sea Rhythms,” which was exclusively showcased last month, Jasmine’s vision was to have her platform empower women and embody strength. She emphasises that while girls can be seen as soft, they can also be tough—a duality she seeks to interpret in her designs. This year, her collection focuses on six garments that empower women while incorporating elements of nature. Jasmine acknowledges the support of her sponsors, Prosperity Textile (HK) Limited, recognising their partnership in bringing her visions to life. As she prepares for the denim festival, her commitment to her collection is evident; she has been involved with the event since its inception, participating in both its first and second seasons.
When showcasing her designs, Jasmine emphasises functionality and versatility in her creations, particularly in her denim pieces, where each item is thoughtfully designed to meet
the practical needs of everyday wear without sacrificing style. Her love for her craft and dedication to sharing her voice through her work serve as an inspiring reminder that fashion is a powerful form of self-expression and dialogue.
Max, Tsang Chi Fung
Sitting down with Max, the founder and designer of IP Axis Industrial studio, you immediately sense his perseverance in pushing the boundaries of fashion. With a futuristic vision in mind, he describes his brand as a canvas for innovative storytelling.
To Max, fashion is more than just clothing; it’s about conveying a story. Each collection follows a chapter-based approach, allowing him to explore different themes. “Every season brings something new,” but also reflects what we might wear in the future. When asked about his inspiration, he draws heavily from tech wear, a style that merges functionality with forward-thinking aesthetics.
With denim as the theme of the event, Max expresses his wish for denim. “I want to see denim evolve beyond its traditional uses,” he reflects, envisioning a future where these garments are both innovative and environmentally responsible.
With Max’s voice carrying a blend of determination and optimism, he reminds us that fashion can be a powerful vehicle for change. “I hope to inspire others to rethink what clothing can be,” leaving us with an exciting glimpse into the future and the evolving landscape of sustainable fashion. As we discuss his brand’s journey, Max expresses immense gratitude for the support of his sponsors. “Visiting their studio and factory opened so many doors for us.”
