The New Fashion Capital report reveals which emerging cities should be on brands' radar.
The 2024 New Fashion Capital Index report also reveals for the first time the results of a new consumer survey of 1,400 shoppers across 14 cities, which is included in the rankings and brings a local perspective to the report. The evaluation of consumers in each city is based on the understanding and fashion preferences of consumers in different cities. Recognition and assessment of fashion image in each city; and the diversity and satisfaction of cultural, recreational and arts activities in different locations.
Below, we reveal the ranking of the top 10 fashion capitals, as detailed in the report.
10. Zhengzhou (New Entry)
Vogue Business Score: 5.56/10
As one of the Eight Ancient Capitals of China (referring to the cities that served as the capitals of the Chinese dynasty), Zhengzhou has witnessed thousands of years of history. Consequently, it has the best ability to interpret traditional culture in contemporary times. With the overall strength of shopping mall giant David Plaza, Zhengzhou has also led the central region to achieve breakthroughs in fashion development, with outstanding performance in fashion consumption and cultural appeal.
8. Suzu (new entry)
Vogue Business Score: 6.03/10
With its thousand-year-old Jiangnan cultural heritage and spirit of constant innovation and development, Suzhou does the best job of balancing authenticity with modernity among all Chinese cities. Suzhou is located between the two major business districts of Nanjing and Shanghai, but has emerged as a dark horse, integrated into the development of the Yangtze River Delta. A number of government policies have been introduced to ensure its fashion continues to thrive, but its overall innovation power is nascent as Suzhou struggles to retain talent.
7. Nanjing (2020 Rating: 5; Score: 6.71/10)
Vogue Business Score: 6.29/10
Nanjing, the capital of 10 dynasties steeped in legend since its founding, has accumulated rich cultural heritage over a long period of history. The geographical location that connects east and west and north and south makes Nanjing a natural home for high-end consumption. Overall consumption power and cultural appeal are on the rise, but innovation could improve.
6. Xi'an (2020 Rating: 4; Score: 7.31/10)
Vogue Business Score: 6.43/10
With cultural tourism IP as a key growth focus, the city's fashion business potential and consumption power are among the best. Xi'an is a national consumption center and the only central city in the northwest. With the continued promotion of cultural trust and quality consumption, Xi'an's commercial development has found new points of development in both cultural heritage and innovation. The gradual implementation of plans for several top shopping malls such as Taikoo Li and Mixc has given Xi'an a shot in the arm.
5. Wuhan (2020 Ranking: 6; Score: 6.61/10)
Vogue Business Score: 6.8/10
Wuhan is located in the center of China, connected by rivers and seas, and has unique geographical advantages. As a place where talent gathers, Wuhan unites and integrates different cultures. From a commercial center that is the "most prosperous place of Chuzhong" to a core city of the Yangtze River economic belt, Wuhan's economic development and fashion business development are strong, a gradual but upward trend. Outlines.
4. Chongqing (2020 Ranking: 1; Score: 8.62/10)
Vogue Business Score: 7.8/10
As China's largest municipality, Chongqing has become an indispensable part of the economic landscape of the West and even the entire country with its industrial base, rapidly emerging industries and national policy support. The city's fashion has a strong capacity for absorption and integration, and its fashion sense is unique. However, brand power and planning have languished, waiting for the next city to explode. Despite this current wait-and-see state, it remains strong, with the five major indicators slowly growing.
3. Hangzhou (2020 Rating: 3; Score: 8.13/10)
Vogue Business Score: 8.38/10
Hangzhou ranked third, ranking first in fashion innovation and talent, and second only to Shenzhen in fashion consumption. The remaining three regions continued to grow.
Hangzhou's unique geographical position not only provides it with beautiful natural scenery, but also enables it to reap the economic benefits of being both inland and on the coast. Science and technology innovation has progressed tremendously over the past year, and the impressive e-commerce sector has continued to grow. However, it is maintaining this level of innovation that is a challenge.
2. Chengdu (2020 Ranking: 1; Score: 8.62/10)
Vogue Business Score: 8.56/10
As the leader of the southwest region, Chengdu's status is undisputed. Its fashion business potential ranks first among all cities, yet its fashion development index has the greatest room for improvement.
Chengdu's unique recreational spirit has created a distinctive development path when it comes to urbanism. A mature business environment, high level of consumption power and cultural charm make Chengdu attractive, but at the same time, consumers are feeling vulnerable, and its industrial sector needs urgent upgrading.
1. Shenzhen (2020 Ranking: 2; Score: 8.43/10)
Vogue Business Score: 9.29/10
With its indomitable spirit of progress, Shenzhen has achieved a historic leap from a small border city to an international city, through both its resilience and potential in economic development. Whether it's brand investment or government support, Shenzhen has firmly grasped the opportunity to develop a fashion industry with cultural depth, establishing itself as a new compass for urban fashion.
The city of science and innovation is developing rapidly in all aspects. It has ranked first in the three major metrics of fashion consumption, cultural attention and growth. Its fashion business potential, innovations and talent are also growing rapidly, all contributing to its prominent positioning.
