CHIC 2008 closes in Beijing

After four days of fashion and style, CHIC 2008 or the 16th China International Clothing and Accessories Fair ended on Sunday night. Youngor, one of China's leading menswear designers releases its 2008/09 autumn and winter collection in Beijing.

Menswear often uses a dull palette, with black predominating. But for next autumn and winter, Chinese red takes a lead role. The collection also incorporates rich colors from green to light blue. Even some cold colors have been given a twist to make them feel warm.

Wool, cotton and other natural fabrics are the main staples. The production process has been made more environmentally-friendly, though the cost has increased with the changes. More sports elements are one of the highlights celebrating the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Zhang Hong, designer, said, "Chinese consumers now want to have a more individual look. We can't satisfy everyone's tastes with one style. After developing for over 10 years, our brand has focused on a target market of business men, white-collar workers and elegant men aged 35 to 45."

One of China's leading menswear brands, Youngor has purchased U.S. garment company Kingwood for 120 million yuan to break into the US market. Youngor is now on its way to making its own brand well known internationally.

The tide is starting to turn for China's apparel industry. Over the years, the China International Clothing & Accessories Fair has grown to be a top-level annual event for insiders from home and abroad.