Cover Véronique Nichanian the men's artistic director for Hermès with the models who walked the runway at Kai Tak Cruise terminal (Photo: courtesy of Hermès)
Véronique Nichanian the men's artistic director for Hermès with the models who walked the runway at Kai Tak Cruise terminal (Photo: courtesy of Hermès)
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French maison Hermès’s spectacular menswear show at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal proved that the city remains a coveted stage for luxury fashion brands, with local luminaries taking to the runway alongside international models in a celebration of sophistication
The evening of September 19 marked a historic moment for Hong Kong as Hermès staged its Autumn/Winter 2025 menswear show at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. "Ready, Set, Casaque!" proved that the city remains very much at the epicentre of luxury's global conversation.
Against the glittering backdrop of Victoria Harbour, the men’s artistic director since 1988, Véronique Nichanian—who has just announced that she is leaving the maison after being at the helm for 37 years—unfolded her vision for the men’s collection with architectural precision. The casaque – those traditional racing silks so integral to Hermès' equestrian heritage – became the evening's protagonist, as cream, blood orange and celadon blue swept across the concrete expanse of Kai Tak.
What elevated the evening was Hermès’ inspired decision to cast Hong Kong's own cultural luminaries alongside international models. Kamsen Lau, executive director of Lifestyle International Holdings, brought retail royalty to the runway, whilst acclaimed filmmaker Derek Tsang represented the city's creative excellence. Meanwhile, Tatler’s very own chairman and CEO, Michel Lamunière, and environmental activist Sean Lee Davies further reinforced Hong Kong's position as a nexus of international influence.
Louis Koo (Photo: Jeffrey Hui/Tatler Hong Kong)
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The final surprise of the night came when David Smaniotto, managing director of Hermès Hong Kong and Macau, made an unexpected appearance on the runway that no one saw coming. The crowd erupted in cheers, clearly delighted by this spontaneous moment that perfectly captured the evening's celebratory spirit.
The front row read like a who's who of Hong Kong society, with Aaron Kwok, Adrian and Jennifer Yu Cheng, and the creative mind behind Labubu, Kasing Lung, bearing witness to fashion history in the making.
The collection itself was mesmerising: rubberised calfskin caught the harbour lights, blanket-finished parkas offered urban armour against the evening breeze and coffee, slate and charcoal hues created a sophisticated dialogue with the terminal's concrete brutalism. As Nichanian’s equestrian geometry played out across the space, one couldn't help but feel that this was Hong Kong at its most magnetic.
Stephen Fung (Photo: Jeffrey Hui/Tatler Hong Kong)
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For those who witnessed the magic, it was a reminder of why Hong Kong continues to captivate the world's most discerning brands. However, the evening was far from over. After the final model had left the runway, guests were treated to an after-party that matched the show's energy.
The Hermès afterparty (Photo: Zed Leets/ Tatler Hong Kong)
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The celebrations continued with performances by singer King Krule, musical group Mount Kimbie, DJ Ani Phoebe and DJ Baba Ali, whilst interactive games and photobooths provided entertainment alongside an abundance of food and drink. For everyone who wasn't there? Well, there's always next season.
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Credits
Photography: Tatler Hong Kong
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As Content Director at Tatler Hong Kong, Tara shapes the brand's editorial vision and reports on Asia's most influential figures — from CEOs and business leaders to designers. In her dual role as Head of VIP, she curates star-studded events and builds the relationships and communities that define the brand. Born and raised in the Middle East, she honed her craft in Dubai, crafting communication strategies for luxury brands across the Gulf. Follow her on Instagram @tarasobti.
