A model takes the stage at a press conference for the Global Supermodel Contest China.Photo: Courtesy of Guanrong Image

Models take the stage at a press conference for the Global Supermodel Contest China.Photo: Courtesy of Guanrong Image

Co-organized by the Global Supermodel Institution and Global Times, the 2014 Global Supermodel Contest China started Friday in Beijing's National Stadium, also known as the Bird's Nest.

Originating from the UK, the Global Supermodel Contest is one of the biggest and most professional model contests around the world. It aims to introduce local supermodels from around the globe to an international stage.

Alexander Thynn, 7th Marquess of Bath, is the chairman of the Global Supermodel Contest.

The first time the contest has come to China, Lord Bath said the deep history and culture of China have made the nation a land of beauty and fashion. He added that the contest could not truly be "global" without the participation of China.

A strategic cooperation agreement was signed Friday between the Global Supermodel Institution and 2014 China Fashion Week London, creating more opportunities for models and fashion designers in China to present themselves outside their homeland as the top 10 contestants will be invited directly to China Fashion Week London this fall.

Peng Xiaoxiao, operation director of China Fashion Week London, noted that there are a lot of young Chinese designers born in the 1980s-90s that have special talent but lack a place to show it. Regarding the Global Supermodel Contest as a "precious" international communication platform for domestic designers, Peng said "We hope that by creating a bridge between our two parties, supermodels and designers from China will be able to amaze audiences in London."

Mai Morimoto, a famous British designer, will be one of the international judges for the contest. Morimoto is the personal designer of many European and US stars, including Lady Gaga, Victoria Beckham and Jennifer Lopez. She is also the founder and CEO of LUNGTA de FANCY, a luxury brand popular among the British upper class.

Other judges and advisory bodies include fashion host Lara Accison and fashion designer Valentino Vettori.