Designers spray paint on a dress during the closing show of Beijing Fashion Week in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 12, 2008. [Guo Shasha/Xinhua]

Models present creations during the closing show of Beijing Fashion Week in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 12, 2008. [Chen Jianli/Xinhua]

The tour de force didn't appear until the finale - featuring a model in a white dress. The unfinished piece was completed by the design team. Lead designer Wang Fang added the final touches. The improvisational piece served as the launch for the award ceremony.

Li Xiaoyan and Zeng Fengfei were awarded the best female and male fashion designer of the year. The Jin Ding, or Golden Peak award, the highest trophy for Chinese design went to Qi Gang. Qi is a young talent whose style blends ancient Chinese extravagance with modern elements. The award was a dream come true for the aspiring thirty-four year old designer.

Qi Gang, designer, said, "I'm very excited. I've been through eight years of preparation. The Jin Ding award is a prominent one in design - recognizing distinguished achievement. This encouraged me to work harder. I want to start attending major fashion events in Europe as soon as possible.

Then models Meng Fei and Liu Duo were recognized as the best male model and the best female model respectively.

Meng Fei, model, said, "There are many excellent male models every year. They are the ones with a mind set to express the elegance of the clothes rather than their own beauty. I wholeheartedly try to do my part to display the gorgeous suits that the designer has created."