First Published: 13th November 2020, written by Chloé Safilo | Last Updated on 25th August 2023 | Reviewed and Edited by Chloe Safilo
The fashion capitals, particularly those referred to as central cities in popular countries, have emerged to become today’s world fashion links. These countries are not just popular for the finest fashion houses in the world, but also for being the hotspot for cultural, commercial and economic centres for people across the world.
Here’s something to remember, these aspects are considered the most essential elements behind the transition of these cities into what is called the capital of fashion. Although Fashion is a global language, not all countries have equally evolved their fashion industry as a means of economic reliability and employee strength.
To ask which country has the best fashion is of course subjective, and each nation has its own influences and style which cater for different tastes. These are our favourites.
Spain
This country is rated among the top fashionable cities that boast of its plentiful elegant designers and top brands, which is reflected in the style of common people. Visiting the place will make you realise that citizens of Spain wear designer outfits almost at all times. The most famous Spanish couturier was The King of Fashion Cristóbal Balenciaga, and the country spawned Zara, Mango, and El Corte Ingles among many others.
France
Paris has given birth to the fashion industry and holds the topmost rank among global fashionable cities. French designers are popularly known for choosing high-quality fabrics to create inspiring designs. Famed French fashion designers include Yves Saint Laurent, Coco Chanel, Christian Dior and Hubert de Givenchy.
But even outside of the capital, France has many great cities for fashion lovers, including Lyon and Marseille.
United Kingdom
British fashion designers have a significant influence on the launch of the international fashion industry. London has become a British fashion capital, known for the uniqueness and elegance of its design. England’s capital is renowned for its fashion schools like Central St Martins and the University for the Creative Arts undergraduate BA fashion course.
Manchester is also on the map for having some of the most successful and innovative new brands like Maniere De Voir. One such brand is The Manchester Shop, which specialises in providing clothing, accessories and gifts which are inspired by the Manchester bee symbol.
Sweden
Stockholm has successfully made its mark in the world of fashion design, as well as street style. Overall the fashion industry is elaborately spread across the Swedish country., with their most fashion export H & M.
Turkey
Istanbul is one of the world’s most primitive fashion markets. Turkish designers focus on attires that make people feel comfortable and are easy going. The country is well known for the production and manufacturing of clothing.
Australia
Designers here gather their inspiration from the beautiful landscapes, which contributes towards forming the signature designs. Let’s be honest who can think of the land down under, and not think of surfwear brands like Rip Curl, Quiksilver and Billabong. But the fashion scene goes far beyond those surfing staples.
United Arab Emirates
Dubai is known as the fashion capital of the Middle East, with vibrantly colourful clothes and light textures. But Dubai fashion extends further than every UK Social Influencer migrating there in the winter for those serious Burj Al Arab selfies.
Hong Kong
The Chinese empire depends on Hong Kong’s fashion industry, which has transformed it into the capital city of fashion in Asia. With the huge economic development of China, Hong Kong is just a step away from becoming one of the largest fashion hotspots in the world.
United States of America
This country is home to talented designers and welcomes people from all over the world to international fashion weeks. It brings combines modern and old cultures, to present contemporary styles that are in line with the latest trends. Often the American youth culture has it’s finger on the pulse of fashion and embrace streetwear brands like Stussy.
Italy
Fashion is an important aspect of Italian culture and the Italians are known internationally for their excellent taste in apparels and accessories. From rich materials to unique outfit choices, this country represents the distinctly European style. Italy is one of the top fashion countries producing brands like Kappa, Ellese, Loro Piana and Stone Island, and of course legendary fashion designers like Gianni Versace, Guccio Gucci, Valentino Garavani, Giorgio Armani and Roberto Cavalli.