"This was due to the sudden economic turmoil in many countries," said Su Baoyan, the vice president of the China Fashion Designers Association. According to Su, a number of foreign brands canceled their shows a month after the financial turmoil swept the world.

For the first time environmental protection became a theme for the weeklong event. Pollution, natural disasters and landscaping inspired designers.

Aimer's frill-free lingerie.

Liu Xing, the designer of Miidii, gave a unique show, "Awakening", on Friday, to call attention to the worsening environment.

"This year's Sichuan earthquake, pollution in the city, landslides and mud-flow disasters in China made me reconsider the significance of life and death," said the designer.

Liu's show featured depressing colors, somber music and heavy fabrics - showing off the designer's concern for nature.

Later, cocoon-shaped dresses and soft hued designs expressed hope for a clean and beautiful world. To match the ecology theme, the designer made use of many high-tech organic materials, like bamboo fiber, regenerative plant proteins and milk casein fiber.

Young designer Cabbeen brought an optimistic note to proceedings, through his simply styled casual dresses and sportswear.

"An unhappy man usually cannot feel the beauty of life and is unconcerned about the environment," said the designer. "What I am doing now is bringing a cozy feeling, simple lifestyle and happy mood through my collections."

The designer used undyed cloth, environmental-friendly materials like bamboo and organic cotton in designing his collection.

Mark Cheung, the Chinese fashion icon, presented a show inspired by the Yangtze River.