Models clad in Chanel's new Cruise collection for 2013/14 stomped down the runway in Singapore on Thursday (May 9), the first time an Asian city has played host to the French luxury house.

The Cruise shows have typically been presented in European cities like St. Tropez, but Chanel said they chose the city state for its credentials as a regional fashion and retail hub, in a region associated with rapid economic growth.

Creative Director Karl Lagerfeld said Asia is now the place to be.

"Asia is the future of the world. I mean, this part of the world has more future than the Old World," he said.

The venue for the show was an old military barracks, chosen for its black and white colonial style architecture.

Model Cara Delevigne said she was impressed by the venue's history.

"Oh my god, completely. I mean, to be able to do a show in this city is unbelievable, it's so cool. And I think there's definitely a difference, I mean, while we were doing it today in the military base, there's definitely a feel for it, completely," she said.

Lagerfeld said this is his first time coming to Singapore for Chanel, adding that the last time he's been to the city state was 25 years ago.

Presented by Adam Justice