We interviewed Dorian Ho at his bridal showroom in mid-December before the AIS Silver Jubilee Gala Dinner. Dorian studied in the California International School in Hong Kong from 1986 to 1988. During that period CIS had only about 100 students. Dorian was in Grade 10 and 11 classes. After two years of studying at CIS, he went to the States to finish his Grade 12 and a marketing degree at the Boston University.

Over the years, Dorian has become a world renowned fashion designer. He created his own Doriano label for China in 1993. In 2001, his Dorian Ho evening collection made its international debut at the Mercedes Australian Fashion Week in Sydney and at New York’s Seventh on Sixth. In November 2005, he launched his bridal gown collection and opened his first wedding concept store called “Dorian Ho Wedding”. The Dorian Ho design label can be found in Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, Barneys Japan in Tokyo and Saks Fifth Avenue in New York among other leading retail destinations. Dorian also offers custom-made service to many celebrity customers both locally and worldwide. In recent years, Dorian has been designing specialty uniforms for various industries such as airlines, banks, hotels, property developers and cosmetic companies.

Mr. Dorian Ho '89 with our Development Officer Ms. Teresa Wong

In recollection of his old school days, he believed CIS has had a big impact to his character build-up during his early years. He said before he studied in an international school, he was always the quiet type with a rebellious streak in him. CIS has helped him to shape up his character, learn to express himself and look after the others. He has found school to be much more enjoyable. For the first time, he was able to be self-motivated to work hard in his studies. He believed international schools and the western style of education could really develop an individual to freely express himself, voice out his opinions and interact with others, which are particularly important for his design industry.

When comparing his time in CIS to the American International School nowadays, he said students at AIS are very lucky; particularly there are a lot of activities available for them in the school. He encouraged our young people to treasure what they have, do their best in the school, and prepare themselves for finding their success in the future. “I look forward to meeting and speaking to the AIS students one day,” said Dorian.

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