Integration

As a celebration of their sixth anniversary, Vogue China created a foldout cover starring six of China's models of the moment, including Du Juan, He Sui, Sun Feifei, Liu Wen, Xi Ming and Shu Pei, for its September issue.

While fashion publications in China have been enthusiastic about the success of these trailblazers, experts warned that these young models are still likely to face many challenges.

"Chinese models are always handicapped by their language skills. Most of them have never received any systematic language training," said Li Xiaobai, Chairman of the China New Silk Road Models Organization, China's first and largest modeling agency.

When Liu Wen made her way into the Victoria's Secret show in 2010, she introduced herself in English. Though not fluent, she won much praise for her efforts.

"I used to be afraid of speaking English while being interviewed," she said. "But being able to communicate with others in English makes me feel more confident about myself now."

Mo Wandan, another Chinese model, takes a translator wherever she goes. "My Western workmates all think I am super rich, but that is the only way I can communicate with others," Mo said.

Another obstacle is that successful Chinese models today all represent what Westerners call the "oriental look."

"They lack versatility," said Yi Lingna, Editor in Chief of fashion website onlylady.com. She also pointed out that there are few Chinese male models on the world stage.

"The lack of world-class Chinese clothing brands also prevents more Chinese models from entering the international fashion circuit," said Li. In France, many models are promoted by Pierre Cardin, one of the world's major clothing brands, onto the world fashion stage every year.

Modeling agencies are confronting the problem of oversupply as the number of Chinese models has grown. "After all, the exotic charm of Chinese models is still used as the icing on the cake in the fashion world," said Yao.