There are various cities across the globe which prove to be both a fashion blogger’s haven and a shopper’s paradise. We’ve teamed up with male fashion experts Frank Wright, who stock stylish brown chukka boots, to run through online fashion retailer Zalando’s list of the most fashionable destinations of 2018 and detail just how much money you’ll need to visit each one…
5. Florence, Italy
Over the past ten years or so, Florence has become a lot trendier. More people are now discovering the city’s wonderful art museums, colourful architecture and quaint shopping streets. The Italian city is home to big names such as Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo as well as other big-name boutiques which can be found at Via Tornabuoni.
There are various local markets and tanneries to take in throughout Florence too. Many of these are from a family of traders who have been creating leather goods for centuries too. Find yourself an accessory that’s truly unique. There’s also the unmissable Ponte Vecchio for jewellery lovers — discover pieces set with precious gemstones that you’d struggle to find anywhere else.
Head to a rooftop bar like those situated within the Torre Guelfa Hotel or The Grand Hotel Baglioni and you’ll also be able to take in panoramic views of the Italian city. Capture perfect shots of Florence from these spots whilst you enjoy a drink and soak up the atmosphere.
Cost of a return flight: From £67*
Cost of mid-range accommodation: £97-176
4. Venice, Italy
Luxury and class are sure to be two words that you associate with Venice, which is iconic for its scenic canals and picturesque waterways. Traditionally, the local craftsmen specialised in creating delicate masks that are worn for the Carnival of Venice and for their glass-blowing techniques. But, the Italian city is now becoming an attraction for fashion lovers with its prestigious showrooms and ateliers of big designers.
St Mark’s Square will be where you want to set your sights on when trying to find the Italian city’s designer boutiques. Once there, look out for the streets Calle delle Mercerie or Calle Larga XXII Marzo and shop to your heart’s content. Discover charming side streets where you can buy custom made Venetian slippers and other garments unique to the city.
According to Zalando, Venice was ranked in a lower position than some of the other destinations in this list because of its lower number of fashion schools and their rankings.
Cost of a return flight: From £19*
Cost of mid-range accommodation: £62-159
3. Vienna, Austria
Taking the bronze medal for the world’s most elegant city is Vienna. It lost some points due to their lower number of fashion weeks, expos and designers who have resided in the city. The capital of Austria sits in the east of the country and is well-known for its elaborate palaces and historic buildings.
You’ll want to head to the centre of Vienna to locate an array of international luxury brands. For example, there’s Tuchlauben — a shopping area that is part of the Goldenes Quartier. For local designer garments, make your way towards Neubaugasse and Kirchengasse. Vienna is also home to the famous Lindengasse fashion mile — a street of small boutiques offering stylish fashion in the form of independent brands.
Cost of a return flight: From £53*
Cost of mid-range accommodation: £57-93
2. London, England
London has so many quirky bars and restaurants. From enjoying a panoramic view of the city at The Shard to heading to smaller cocktail bars such as the award-winning Dirty Martini in Islington — this destination has something for everyone.
As well as being home to the Queen, the English capital also plays host to some of the world’s biggest designers. Therefore, it comes with little surprise that London has made the top cut.
Of course, we couldn’t surely cover London in an article about appreciating the finer things in life without featuring Harrods. Seven floors and 330 departments dedicated to the only-the-best products in food, fashion, homeware and more. For outdoor browsing, head over to Bond Street for exclusive brands, designer fashion or Mayfair for luxurious goods and super exclusive restaurants.
Cost of a return flight: N/A
Cost of mid-range accommodation: £100-200
1. Paris, France
Paris is associated with being the city of love, as well as being a destination where you’ll never think you’re in just any old city while walking through its streets. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind boutiques, head over to the famous Champs-Élysées which stretches from the place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. To get the full Parisian experience, head to rue Saint-Honoré which boasts the perfect balance of classic designers and Parisian concept stores.
Zalando placed Paris top of its list for several reasons. Its high perception from fashion journalists certainly helped, as did the number of events, expos and more that the city has been host to. Paris is lined with trendy neighbourhoods, including Montmarte — an area with a rich history and culture tucked away on a hill in the north of the city.
Cost of a return flight: £54
Cost of mid-range accommodation: £115-220
*Based on flights to and from the UK, the cheapest month and for the cheapest duration.
Sources
https://www.zalando.co.uk/worlds-most-elegant-cities/#mec-methodology
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/austria/vienna/articles/vienna-shopping/
https://www.venice-italy-veneto.com/shopping-in-venice.html
https://theculturetrip.com/europe/france/paris/articles/the-10-coolest-neighbourhoods-in-paris/
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/untapped-destinations/new-fashion-capital-florence/