The Three Fashion Capitals of Europe
If you are passionate about fashion and travel, visiting the world's fashion capitals could be your dream vacation. These three bustling European cities are considered some of the most stylish areas of the world and are destinations for celebrities, designers and buyers alike.
Paris
As an industry epicenter, Paris is home to some of the most renowned brands, including Chanel, Saint Laurent, Dior, and Louis Vuitton. It all started when Louis XIV, the king of France, decided that he wanted to be clad in the world’s most luxury goods, proving that only the wealthiest and most powerful could afford such luxury. The French were the first to make a commercial enterprise out of fashion, selling clothing, shoes and accessories as early as the 17th century. In the late 19th century, the industry exploded with the founding of the Jacques Doucet and Madeline Vionnet fashion houses and the establishment of the Vogue magazine.
In the 21st century, the city hosts Paris Fashion Week. Occurring biannually, this event exhibits the work of the most respected designers and is known to debut trends to 95 million viewers. Tickets to the fashion show are quite sought after, making the event exclusive– only attended by those who are invited and can pay the high price.
Travel tips: Although fashion week is difficult to attend, just being in Paris during the event is spectacular enough. Occurring at the end of February and again at the end of September, Paris is just waiting for you to book your tickets. While in Paris, visit The Champs-Élysées, a busy avenue famous for its collection of designer stores, the perfect place to see what the city’s fashion scene offers.
Milan
When people think of high fashion, they think of Italy. Italian fashion is known for its luxury leather, high-quality textiles, and incredible craftsmanship, all exhibited at the Milan Fashion Week. Italy boasts the finest luxury brands, including Prada, Moncler, Versace, Gucci, Valentino, Fendi, Armani, and Dolce & Gabbana. Milan is at the core of Italian design, with 12,000 fashion houses, 800 showrooms and 6,000 sales outlets. As one of the top four fashion shows in the world, Milan’s is not one to overlook.
Travel tips: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, located in the center of Milan, is the oldest mall in the world. Renowned for its high-quality goods, art and jewelry, this is a mecca for fashion and shopping enthusiasts. Visit the Armani/Silos showcase created by modern designers and artists. For a more historical take on fashion, try the Palazzo Morando. This museum is located within an 18th-century palace and features art and fashion dating back to the 17th century.
London
London is another top fashion destination in Europe. The city has impacted the industry with its incredible innovation and some of our favorite designers– Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Burberry. It was also the birthplace of the Mod movement– a lifestyle trend in the 1950s exhibited by a change in music style and fashion design. The Mod style involved dressing nicely but was more casual than a business look. Often, men would wear a suit jacket on top of a sweater or polo shirt. Many musical artists from this period dressed in this attire, including The Beatles. British fashion specializes in the “modern-man” and is known for its high-quality shoes, hats and suits. However, there is truly something for everyone, and the designers never fail to present fresh ideas.
Travel tips: Stop by the Camden Market, a busy shopping center filled with many cafes, bars, and stores. Brick Lane Vintage Market is a great place to shop for the best second-hand, high-quality styles for those interested in vintage. If you’re looking for inspiration or want to check out the future of London fashion, explore The London College of Fashion’s Fashion Space Gallery. Lastly, London, too, has a fashion week, so visiting during this time may be the best way to get the most out of your fashion experience.
For those interested in the intricacy, craftsmanship, trends and history of fashion, visiting any one of these world-renown capitals is a bucket list item.
Tag @theedgemag if you visit any of these beautiful cities.