Fashion capitals are cities with profound global influence on trends, designers, manufacturing, and major events like fashion weeks, generating substantial economic output. The undisputed "Big Four" today are New York, London, Milan, and Paris, celebrated for their rich heritage and contemporary impact on the international fashion scene. Historically, Milan held the title in the 16th century, while Paris, under Louis XIV, solidified its dominance in the 17th, later attracting figures like Charles Frederick Worth to pioneer haute couture in the 19th century. The 20th century saw New York rise with its sportswear innovation post-World War II, and Tokyo emerge in the 1980s as Asia's primary capital with avant-garde designers, illustrating the dynamic evolution of global fashion leadership.