Hong Kong Exhibition Overview

Shanghai Tang, heralded as the “first Asian luxury brand,” is celebrating its vibrant heritage with a captivating retrospective exhibition in Hong Kong.

Unveiling on November 26, the exhibition titled “A Journey of Rediscovery — 30 Years of Shanghai Tang” is now on display at the PMQ, a former police married quarters transformed into a dynamic hub for creative industries. This remarkable showcase features over 100 rare and iconic pieces that chronicle the brand’s influential history, reflecting its innovative fusion of traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern luxury.

Exhibition Sections

Curated by Shanghai Tang’s in-house team, the exhibition is thoughtfully organized into four immersive sections: “Ginger Flower Tunnel,” “Wall of Fame,” “The Icons,” and “Cabinet of Curiosity.” Each segment narrates key chapters of the brand’s journey, from its lifestyle offerings to collaborations with esteemed Chinese artists, and highlights the personal charisma of its founder, David Tang, known for his connections with celebrity clientele like Nicole Kidman, Chi-Ling Lin, and Richie Jen.

Innovation and Technology

What sets this exhibition apart is its forward-looking approach. In collaboration with Fabrix—a digital fashion initiative supported by the Hong Kong government—the exhibition integrates cutting-edge Augmented Reality (AR) technology. Visitors have the unique opportunity to virtually try on signature Shanghai Tang pieces, merging the past with the future in an innovative manner.

Exhibition Details and Legacy

Displaying until December 15, this exhibition not only pays homage to Shanghai Tang’s rich legacy but also emphasizes its role as a pioneer in celebrating Chinese culture through luxury fashion. Founded in 1994 by the charismatic Hong Kong businessman David Tang, the brand originally aimed to revive and modernize traditional Chinese garments. Shanghai Tang rose to international fame with its luxurious interpretations of the qipao and Tang suit, using modern fabrics and a vivid color palette.

The brand gained traction worldwide, in part due to its celebrity endorsements, notably from Princess Diana and Kate Moss. In 1997, Shanghai Tang expanded its global footprint with the opening of its flagship store on New York's prestigious Madison Avenue. A year later, the prominent Swiss luxury goods group Richemont acquired a majority stake in the brand.

Following David Tang’s passing in 2017, Shanghai Tang experienced significant transitions in ownership before finally being acquired by Lunar Capital, a Chinese private equity firm that also has interests in contemporary art and the gourmet food sector. With their vision, the brand is set to continue its legacy while adapting to modern trends.

Conclusion

Don't miss your chance to explore the colorful narrative of Shanghai Tang—it's a fashion journey you won't forget!