Was it the designers, the culture, or something else entirely?

[eneria12]

I’ve always been fascinated by how New York City became one of the top fashion capitals in the world. It’s crazy to think that a city once known for its financial district and Broadway is now home to some of the biggest names in fashion. What do you guys think contributed most to its rise? Was it the designers, the culture, or something else entirely? I’d love to hear different perspectives because the city’s influence on global fashion is undeniable.

 

[morrowinemonet]

That’s a great question! I think NYC’s rise in the fashion world was a mix of multiple factors—its immigrant-driven garment industry, its unique cultural diversity, and its ability to constantly reinvent itself. The city became a hub for creativity, which allowed designers like Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein to thrive. Plus, with events like New York Fashion Week, it cemented itself as a trendsetter rather than just a follower. There’s a really interesting breakdown of how fashion capitals, including NYC, became so influential here: https://ourculturemag.com/2025/02/26/fashion-capitals-of-the-world-what-makes-them-so-influential/. The article highlights how New York differs from other fashion hubs like Paris and Milan, focusing on its fast-paced, streetwear-driven edge. I think NYC’s ability to merge high fashion with street style is what really sets it apart.

 

[eneria12]

I also think pop culture played a role—movies, music, and even TV shows like Sex and the City helped shape how the world sees New York fashion.