12 February 2026

APLF Events: Designers Unite to Shape Fashion's Future

The fashion industry thrives on the dynamic relationship between visionary designers and innovative manufacturers. Fashion Access and APLF present two curated events to nurture these vital connections while showcasing the future of leather fashion design.


Design-A-Bag Competition 2026 – Final Judging Ceremony
Where Tomorrow’s Design Stars Compete for Glory
12 March 2026 | 15:00 – 15:45 | Main Stage, Hall 1A, HKCEC

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Witness the ultimate showdown as three exceptional finalists take center stage. With a 55% increase in entries from 52 countries worldwide this year, the finalists represent the pinnacle of emerging design excellence, competing for a seat at Arsutoria School in Millian and the opportunity to attend Simona Tanning’s Leather Workshop.

Why Designers Should Attend:

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  • Gain inspiration as three exceptional designers present their authentic concepts
  • Network with industry professionals including expert judges and fellow creatives
  • Understand what excellence looks like in competitive design
  • See the rewards of success—the winner receives a 4-week design course in Milan at prestigious Arsutoria School

Why Manufacturers Should Attend:

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  • Scout top-tier emerging talent who’ve already proven their excellence
  • Identify trending design directions through the industry’s promising creators
  • Connect with international finalists representing diverse market perspectives
  • Witness innovation in action as finalists present their groundbreaking concepts

Click here to learn more about Design-a-Bag Competition Final Judging Ceremony.

Education Day: Bridging Vision and Production
Transforming Industry Relationships Through Knowledge
14 March 2026 | 9:30 – 12:45 | Main Stage, Hall 1A & Seminar Area, Hall 1E, HKCEC

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Building on the outstanding success of the Next Leather Fashion Designers Program (Vietnam), Education Day comes to Hong Kong with practical insights for both manufacturers and designers.

For Designers – Master Your Future Business

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  • Guided Tradeshow Tour: Understand how a real-world industry operates and experience the supply chain from a stakeholder’s perspective
  • Understanding Leather Session: Discover leather types, production realities, and how to make informed material choices
  • Real-World Brand Building: Learn from Cafune on how to take a local brand to the global stage
  • Hands-On Workshop: Experience leather craftsmanship firsthand while building valuable industry connections

For Manufacturers – Understand How to Communicate with End Users

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  • Sustainability Insights: Learn how to communicate leather’s value to environmentally conscious designers with Alane Marder, Head of Sustainability at Simona Tanning
  • Success Partnership Strategies: Hear from Cafuné’s Queenie Fan on what manufacturers should do to build partnerships with emerging brands—the buyers of the future.

Click here to learn more about Education Day.

Speakers

Alane Becker Marder
Simona Tanning

Queenie Fan
Cafuné

Simona Tanning

Head of Marketing, Sustainability and WellBeing

CAFUNÉ _ Official Online Store _ Modern Women Accessories – Cafuné

Creative Director and Co-founder

Knowledge / Sourcing / Material Trends / Network — All Are Designers’ Essential Tools

The fashion industry’s future depends on strong manufacturer-designer partnerships, and these events provide the essential connections and strategic insights that drive real business results – enabling manufacturers to connect with tomorrow’s trend-drivers and designers to master their craft while building sustainable, successful fashion business through a world-class industry event.

Your Next Move

Great fashion happens when creative vision meets manufacturing excellence. Don’t miss this opportunity to:

  • Network with key industry players and emerging talent
  • Learn practical strategies for business growth
  • Discover trends before they reach mainstream markets
  • Build partnerships that drive mutual success

 

Ready to shape fashion’s future? Register now for APLF 2026 and join the conversation that’s defining the industry’s next chapter.

Secure Your Spot Today