The ACF's Annual Awards Gala at the Great Wall of China
Following, the Press Conference, the ACF held a lavish ACF Awards Gala at the foot of the stunning Simatai section of the Great Wall of China. Kicking off the evening guests enjoyed cocktails and canapés as the sun set majestically over the Great Wall and Gubei Water Town. Always a key moment for the ACF this enabled the assembled VIP's, media and guests to network and discuss the highlights of the day. Following this, the ACF undertook its Award Ceremony. The ACF Awards recognise outstanding contributions to fashion and couture and have been awarded to a number of key industry leaders, luminaries and visionaries. This evening was particularly special as the ACF bestowed a number of Patron Awards, one of its highest accolades. This included Mr. Jack Cao, China Overseas Land, and the District Government of Miyun and LiuLi Gongfang. The ACF relies on its benefactors for their longstanding and continuous commitment to the promotion of talented Asian couturiers across the region. All patrons play an important and mutually beneficial role by investing in developing future design success stories and building the global reputation of our industry
Commenting on the ACF Patron's Awards, Dr. Frank Cintamani, Founding President, Asian Couture Federation, said, "For centuries the arts and culture has always depended on the patronage and support of individuals and organisations. The role of Patrons remains as essential as ever particularly in the development and nurturing of couture talent. With the ascendancy of Asia and the increasing focus on Asian creativity and talent, the role of Patrons has never been so important for the global reputation of our industry. I am delighted that we will have the opportunity during the ACF Private Dinner, to formally recognise a number of key individuals with one of our highest awards, the ACF Patron Award, in recognition of their outstanding support."
Importantly, the day also reflected close cultural ties between China and Asia, notably Japan. The two key proponents of that were China's Guo Pei and Japan's Yumi Katsura. Both iconic designers and both renowned for incorporating their culture heritage as part of their collections. Accordingly both were recognised by the ACF for Outstanding Contribution to Economic & Cultural Diplomacy. Following, the awards guests were invited to take their seats for dinner. As a string quartet played a gastronomic delight was presented. The table decor was artfully created with red flowers recreating the iconic Great Wall of China, the base of which the dinner was taking place. A remarkable evening to an extraordinary day.