The Hong Kong Fashion Week for Fall/Winter 2011 and concurrent fair World Boutique, Hong Kong kicked off Monday at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition center, running until January 20.

According to the organizers, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), nearly 2,000 exhibitors from 27 countries and regions has taken part in the events. There will be 16 runway shows plus an array of seminars about trend forecasting and branding in the four days. The fair will be divided into 11 theme zones, including the World of Fashion Accessories, Fashion Gallery, Intimate Wear, Infant & Children's Wear, Bridal & Evening Wear, Fabrics & Yarn, Sewing Supplies, Trade Services and Testing, and Certification & Inspection.

Benjamin Chau, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC told the Global Times, "This year, the fairs continue to receive great support from fashion designers and brands from around the world, solidifying Hong Kong's status as Asia's trend-setting hub."

Highlights of this year's World Boutique include the Hong Kong Fashion Extravaganza, which took place Monday with four celebrated fashion designers: Japan's Keita Maruyama, Korea's Doii Lee, Hong Kong's Barney Cheng and the Chinese mainland's Alex Wang.

Apart from dazzling runway shows and fairs, the Hong Kong Fashion Designers Contest 2011 was held yesterday, showcasing the new generation of Hong Kong design talents in four categories.