Fashion-watchers partied in style when the Hong Kong Trade Development Council previewed its exciting fashion initiative, "World Boutique, Hong Kong" at a gala event in Beijing recently.

The preview included a parade to unveil the hottest new trends in clothing and lifestyle products.

Among them were the latest releases in brand name and designer collections, giving a taste of what will be revealed when "World Boutique, Hong Kong" is held in Hong Kong in January.

Benjamin Chau, HKTDC''s Director of Exhibitions, said the aim of the event is to promote Hong Kong''s unique position as Asia''s fashion hub. The event is a showcase for designers and a one-stop sourcing centre for boutique buyers, department stores, fashion agents and distributors from around the world, particularly the Chinese mainland.

The preview brought together around 40 fashion brand names and designers'' collections, including labels like Moiselle, Modele de Prudence, Michel Rene, Miss K and Bleu du Nord. There were also collections of works by more than a dozen designers such as Amus Yeung, Arthur Lam, Chow Tan Tan, Otto Tang, Doris Lee and Harrison Wong.

It''s expected that more than 300 labels from all over the world will take part in the exposition in January.

The 80 Hong Kong and international fashion designers who have signed up so far are currently preparing their latest collections for display at this landmark event.

Catwalk shows, talks, exhibitions and seminars are being organized to complement the showcase of the world''s hottest clothes, accessories, shoes, handbags, sunglasses, watches and home decor.

A total of 18 catwalk parades are scheduled from January 13 to 16, feeding visitors a rich content of fashion aspirations and ideas.

The major highlight will be the Hong Kong Fashion Extravaganza, featuring over 50 renowned indigenous designers and labels created for the "water world" theme on opening day.

All eyes will also be on the Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers'' Contest 2004, and the New Design Force Fashion Parade I & II.

Several trend seminars and talks are scheduled to give fashion watchers another dimension to explore