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Europe is home to an array of fashion-forward destinations including three of the ‘Big Four’, the most prominent fashion capitals in the world. Discover how London, Paris and Milan have earned their reputation for sophisticated style and what they offer budding trendsetters visiting on holiday.
London
Nurturing notable talents including Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen, London fashion is renowned around the globe. Competition is fierce to study at the London College of Fashion, and Savile Row remains the most sought-after destination for smart suits and tailoring.
Visit the Victoria & Albert Museum in South Kensington to explore exhibits dedicated to applied arts and the 2 million-strong collection of objects housed in this historic establishment. The award-winning Design Museum is also a must for those interested in contemporary clothing.
Shopping hotspots range from Old Spitalfields Market, a vintage haven, to Bond Street which is lined with designer stores including British brands Burberry and Stella McCartney.
Paris
Paris is considered by many to be THE fashion capital. French courts led royal fashions for centuries – King Louis XIV invented the high heel – and the city oozes as much glamour in its architecture as the residents do in their outfits.
True fashion devotees should look into last-minute holidays to Paris to catch the city’s annual fashion week from the 18th – 23rd June where you can watch shows from leading French brands and the best up-and-coming designers. Year-round, visitors can shop leading French brands in their most significant stores from Louis Vuitton and Givenchy to Chanel and Saint Laurent.
Enthusiasts can even book private tours of the leading luxury fashion houses like Dior. A more laidback way to explore excellence in French fashion is with a visit to the Musée Yves Saint Laurent which has a range of extraordinary exhibitions rotating throughout the year.
Milan
Last but not least is Milan, Italy’s fashion capital – which is saying something! Growing from its heritage as a major textile hub in the 19th century, all eyes are on Milan when it comes to identifying the latest fashion trends, led by world-renowned brands like Versace and Armani.
During your trip, make sure you spend a day exploring the Quadrilatero d’Oro, the ‘golden rectangle’ in the city centre which contains a wealth of luxury clothing and jewellery boutiques. If you work in fashion, don’t miss a visit to the Milano Unica, a trade fair celebrating local textiles and accessories.
Milan is a fantastic place to delve deeper into design. The city has hosted some of the most innovative and inspiring artists in history including Leonardo da Vinci and Bramante. The Last Supper is the most famous footprint of da Vinci, or you can visit the museum dedicated to him.