Students take a chic step on career path

A global fashion contest uncovers future talent, Li Yingxue in Beijing and Xie Chuanjiao in Qingdao report.

With the red orb of the sun spilling its light on the sea, spectators on Zhanqiao Pier, Qingdao, East China's Shandong province, were treated to a radiant fashion spectacular.

The pier, a landmark tourist attraction, was transformed by the bright colors of the models' outfits elegantly displayed on the 440-meter-long century-old "runway".

The pier, once used as a navy dock built in 1892 during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), was actually decreed a national industrial heritage site in April.

It reverberated to the sound of walking models and applause at the World University Student Fashion Design Competition held from Nov 7 to 9.

The event brought together 25 young designers to present their inspirational outfits.

All were students or graduates drawn from 25 universities across 14 countries, including China, France, Germany, Israel, South Africa and the United Kingdom.

The event was co-organized by the Qingdao city government, the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology and the China Fashion Association.