We had the pleasure of interviewing Dorian Ho at his bridal showroom in mid-December, just before the AIS Silver Jubilee Gala Dinner. Dorian studied at the California International School (CIS) in Hong Kong from 1986 to 1988, part of the school’s first cohort of students when it opened in 1986 with only about 40 students. Reflecting on his early school years, Dorian shared how CIS helped shape both his character and his career path. (CIS was renamed the American International School, or AIS, in 1997.)
Before I studied at an international school, I was very quiet and had a rebellious streak. California International School (CIS) taught me to open up, express myself, and learn to look after others. For the first time, I found school enjoyable and became self-motivated in my studies.
After two years at CIS, Dorian went on to complete Grade 12 in the United States and earned a marketing degree from Boston University. But it was his passion for fashion that would define his future. “International schools and a Western-style education really train you to voice your opinions and interact with others. That’s particularly important in the design industry,” he said.
Front Row: Ilona T., Karen H., Jennifer C., Makiko I., Noriko N., Maxine W.
Dorian launched his own label, Doriano, in 1993. In 2001, his evening wear collection debuted internationally at the Mercedes Australian Fashion Week in Sydney and New York’s Seventh on Sixth. In 2005, he opened Dorian Ho Wedding, his bridal gown concept store, which today offers couture gowns and accessories in Hong Kong, Tokyo, and New York. Dorian also designs specialty uniforms for airlines, hotels, banks, and cosmetic companies worldwide.
When asked about his inspirations, Dorian emphasized the importance of family and personal growth:
CIS gave me the confidence to express my creativity and pursue my dreams. The teachers and friends I had encouraged me to explore my potential fully.
Dorian had a clear message for AIS students: “Treasure what you have, do your best at school, and prepare yourself for future success. The opportunities you have now will shape your future paths.”
He also expressed his excitement about returning to AIS one day to share his story and inspire current students.
Dorian’s talent has been recognized internationally:
- 2006: Awarded “The Outstanding Designer” at Moet & Chandon’s Tribute to Asian Fashion Designers.
- 2007: Received the “Recognition Award” at Bangkok International Fashion Week, alongside other fashion luminaries such as Jimmy Choo.
Dorian Ho’s journey—from a quiet CIS student to a world-renowned designer—demonstrates how early education, passion, and self-expression can shape a life of creativity and success.
About dorian ho
After graduating from Boston University, Dorion Ho launched his own Dorian Ho label in Hong Kong in 1993, made his international debut at the Mercedes Australian Fashion Week in Sydney and New York’s Seventh on Sixth in 2001, and opened his first bridal concept store in 2005. His designs are carried by leading retailers such as Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, Barneys Japan in Tokyo, and Saks Fifth Avenue in New York. Dorian also creates custom designs for celebrities and specialty uniforms for airlines, hotels, banks, and cosmetic companies.
He has received international recognition for his work, including “The Outstanding Designer” award by Moët & Chandon in 2006 and the Recognition Award from the Royal Princess of Thailand at Bangkok International Fashion Week 2007.
Visit Dorion’s website here.
