Chinese Supermodels to Watch

We recently wrote an article on local designers to look out for, but we’d be remiss in neglecting to acknowledge the beautiful women being chosen to wear their designs.

For awhile now, Western media have been marveling over the spike in Asian faces on the runways and in the glossies. The buzz first began in November 2010, when a photo spread titled “Asia Major” in Vogue’s December issue was first unveiled. Meanwhile, Louis Vuitton cast its first-ever Asian male model in early 2011. (See our March issue's Style section for drool-worthy photos.)

And now, following in the footsteps of last year's anniversary issue, Vogue China’s September cover features exclusively Asian faces. This marks a sharp departure from its debut cover back in 2006, starring the very blond Gemma Ward flanked by five Chinese models. Fashionablyjust.com points out the significance of this shift: “Though many Chinese models grace its editorials, they’re frequently left off its covers. In fact, out of the last twelve months, Chinese models covered Vogue China only four times.”

As we noted in our September 2011 issue (viewable online here), is this a sign that China is ready to nurture its own unique aesthetic at last? (Or, as Forbes put it, "Are we Asians finally embracing our own kind?") We’re happy to let the dialogue begun. But first, a brief overview on China’s hottest “it” girls:

LIU WEN: Current fashion world darling, and one of China’s biggest stars. Much beloved by high-fashion labels, having walked for Chanel, Balenciaga, Chloé, Christian Dior and countless more. She became the first Asian face to represent Estée Lauder, as well as the first Asian model to walk for Victoria’s Secret.

DU JUAN: Credited as the world’s first international Chinese supermodel. In 2005 she modeled alongside Gemma Ward for Vogue Paris, becoming the first-ever Asian cover model. Since then she has opened and closed shows for Oscar de la Renta; walked for the likes of Dries van Noten, Valentino and Hermès; and been featured in advertising campaigns for Louis Vuitton, Gap, Giorgio Armani, L’Oreal and Yves Saint Laurent.

MING XI: Nicknamed the “Barbie” of the 2009 Elite Model Look competition. Signed on to walk exclusively in Paris for Givenchy.

SHU PEI: Signed as the second Asian face ever for Maybelline. Also named the new face of Vera Wang this year. Besides modeling for spreads in British Elle, W and Chinese Vogue, she has walked for fashion houses that include Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Marc Jacobs and Elie Saab.

FEI FEI SUN: Makes regular appearances in Vogue Italy, Vogue China and V. Jet-sets around the world – from Shanghai to London, Paris to Milan – to walk for Chanel, Vera Wang, Miu Miu, Alexander Wang, Lanvin and more. Earlier this year she also became the face of Calvin Klein's ck one fragrance (and even hosted an MTV Push party at Beijing's Tango club in to celebrate the launch).

And that's just the beginning. Feel free to share any names we may have missed.

Photos: Fashiongonerogue.com, Numero Uno, Style with Isabelle, Models.com