With the rapidly emerging Chinese market, many Italian designers today prefer to add a little oriental flavour to their fashion shows. That means more and more Chinese models are making their dreams come true on the runways of Milan.
Chinese model Mia Wu comes from a small town in China’s Guangdong Province. Milan is her first stop on the stages of the international fashion scene, and she has complete confidence in her Chinese attributes.
"We have oriental charm and the western models have their own glamour. So I don’t think we’re comparable. Each has their own beauty." Wu said.
For the 22-year-old, it’s difficult to remember the names of every brand on the fashion week calendar. Mia is keen to make friends in this unfamiliar city and practice her English. But as a new face to Italian designers, she still hasn’t confirmed her catwalk agenda for the next few days.
"Sometimes it’s very hard. We don’t have drivers and we have to rush around the city everyday for dozens of fittings. On my first visit here it was difficult to manage. But now I’m used of it." Wu said.
Despite the exhausting fittings, Mia is fortunate to be in Milan after only two years in the business.
Another model named Qiwen Feng made her debut early in 2008, and this is her second visit to the Italian fashion capital. She hopes this time will boost her career prospects in Europe.
"I find Chinese models very chic and elegant, but also at the same time very peaceful. They seem to be very tranquil and relaxed. I like relaxed girls." Designer Cristina Tardito said.
"Obviously there have been obstacles. Many designers haven’t liked to use Asian models. But now China is a big market, so I think there will be more opportunities for Asian models." Model Qiwen Feng said.
From the catwalks of China to the glitzy runways of Europe, clearly Chinese models are making their mark in international fashion--a trend that looks as if it will only continue to grow.
