This Italian Destination Is One Of The World's Most Famous Cities For Clothes Shopping
Milan is underrated but has lots to offer — especially when it comes to fashion. There are a few major cities that lead the rest of the world on the style front. In the United States, it's New York and Los Angeles. In Japan, it's Tokyo. In The United Kingdom, London reigns supreme. Of course, Paris is known for effortlessly chic styles and is where some of the most iconic designers like Coco Chanel and Christian Louboutin grew up. However, of all these famous fashion cities, Milan takes the crown when it comes to clothes shopping.
For centuries, Milan has been a mecca for luxury fashion. The city's aristocracy and royals set the tone for fashion throughout Europe during the Renaissance. Opulent attire in bright colors was favored by the wealthy. Many textiles were produced in Milan, including silk, velvet, and wool. Over the years, the city's reputation as one of the most fashionable destinations in the world has continued to grow.
Some of the most iconic luxury fashion brands of the modern era also got their start in the city of Milan. Designer brands like Giorgio Armani, Attico, Missoni, Moschino, Prada, and Versace were all founded within the city. If you're looking for a destination where you can shop until you drop, It's time to plan a trip to Milan.
Shop until you drop in Milan
If you dream of spending your vacation browsing boutiques and elevating your wardrobe with unique finds from international destinations, you're not alone. Data gathered by YouGov found that around 18% of leisure travelers plan trips with shopping as the primary goal. Around 8 million travelers visit Milan each year, and retail and shopping are the second largest source of tourist spending. Milan has been nicknamed "The Fashion Capital of the World," making it the perfect choice for a multi-day shopping spree.
Milan is also a walkable city, which makes it easy for tourists to explore all of the best areas for shopping. Summer is the most popular time to visit, but the stylish city is also one of the best Italian destinations to add to your winter bucket list. There's a little something for everyone as long as you're willing to explore, and during a Milan shopping trip, you'll find a bit of everything. Some of the most iconic luxury designers have their flagship shops in Milan, so if you're ready to splurge, it's the perfect place. You'll also find plenty of up-and-coming designers, unique boutiques, and high-end department stores. If you're on a budget, you'll still find plenty of amazing clothing at the charity shops, vintage stores, and markets around the city. Sometimes, you can even uncover a designer treasure at a fraction of what it would cost brand new at consignment shops scattered around the city.
Milan's best shopping streets
The most famous shopping street in Milan is probably Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. The pedestrian-only street is where you'll find some of the most famous luxury brands. Since it's vehicle-free, it's great for people watching too. Corso Venezia is another one of the most popular places to shop. It's lined with shops from some of the most recognizable designers, and it's also well known for architectural beauty. You'll see plenty of historic buildings spanning the centuries as you move from shop to shop, including Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles of architecture.
Corso Buenos Aires has hundreds of stores to explore. Whether you're looking to splurge on designer clothes or for something stylish but budget-friendly — you'll find plenty of options. When your arms are tired of carrying all of your shopping bags, take a seat at one of the cute cafes, bars, or restaurants for refreshments. If you're looking for vintage clothing and affordable finds, head to Corso di Porta Ticinese. In addition to vintage shops, you'll find stores selling up-and-coming designers. Some more affordable but still recognizable brands also have shops on the street. As you wander between shopping streets, carve out some time to visit the Milan Cathedral, a must-see historic structure that took hundreds of years to build.