Is Zagreb the new fashion capital of the region?

When we think of European fashion capitals, the same names always come to mind — usually Milan, London, Paris, and sometimes Vienna or Copenhagen. Yet the focus is constantly shifting, and new urban hubs are emerging as epicenters of style and (luxury) shopping. As it turns out, one of those places is Zagreb. The Croatian capital radiates a kind of effortless yet deeply considered elegance — an energy that makes Zagreb truly distinctive. On one of my recent visits, I noticed that Zagreb’s women have a unique gift for mixing pieces by global designers with authentic vintage finds, cultivating a genuinely personal sense of style. This culture — at once economic, cultural, and commercial — is impossible to ignore. Geographically positioned halfway between the Balkans and Western Europe, Zagreb’s location only reinforces the idea that this hypothesis is far from coincidental.

That this hypothesis holds weight is further confirmed by the city’s latest addition to its fashion scene: the opening of the impressive multibrand concept store Colognese 1882 on Tkalčićeva 88. I had the privilege of attending the opening, where the message from owner Paolo Colognese was crystal clear.

Colognese 1882

Colognese 1882

Colognese 1882

A tradition that looks toward the future

Few brands can proudly speak of a 143-year-long legacy. Colognese 1882 traces its roots back to the 19th century, when it was a luxury footwear boutique serving Venetian nobility. A commitment to elegance, expertise, and personalized service has remained at its core ever since — now paired with an innovative spirit that looks firmly toward the future. But why, after more than a century of success in Italy, did Colognese 1882 choose Zagreb?

According to the owner, the opening of the boutique is part of a broader strategic plan aimed at strengthening the brand’s international presence and solidifying its position in Central European markets. The main goal, therefore, is to create a direct bridge between Italy and Croatia. Zagreb has been recognized as a dynamic, fast-growing market — an economic, cultural, and commercial hub of the entire region, with an audience increasingly devoted to fashion and high-quality brands. Dedicated to the world of children’s fashion, Colognese Kids at Tkalčićeva 77 in Zagreb opened just over a year ago. The Kids boutique already features brands such as Gucci, Fendi, Moncler, Stone Island, and many others.

Colognese 1882

The moment you step into the 850-square-meter space, it becomes clear that the uncompromising approach to curation was far more than a marketing phrase. Colognese 1882 doesn’t merely offer clothing — it presents a carefully crafted mix that feels both archival and distinctly urban.

Colognese 1882

The list of brands is impressive, featuring industry giants such as Dolce & Gabbana, Ferragamo, Givenchy, Balmain, Burberry, Zimmermann, Tom Ford, Etro, Tod’s, Alexander McQueen, Lanvin, and Maison Margiela. On the other hand, my avant-garde tendencies were more than satisfied when I spotted some of the most sought-after street style labels on the shelves — including Off-White, Palm Angels, Stone Island, and C.P. Company.

Colognese 1882

Colognese 1882

Colognese 1882

This very selection is the reason Colognese 1882 was included by Vogue Italia among the 150 best stores in the country — a testament to its authority and reputation.

In other words, Zagreb has gained far more than a boutique; it has gained a true fashion hub — one that carries the spirit of late 19th-century Venetian aristocracy while offering a window into the most contemporary currents of the global fashion scene. If you’re looking for a piece with heritage and a story — or that bag you’ve only seen in Milan — you now know the address.

Below, take a look at photos from the opening:

This article was created in collaboration with Colognese 1882.