Top Study Abroad Program Locations that Offer Fashion Classes

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Whether you’re a Fashion major or just need to fulfill a class requirement for your undergraduate studies, why not take those types of classes as you study abroad?

Fashion is a very popular field that college students pursue when they study abroad. In addition to Fashion in general, there are other adjacent fields to consider, too: Fashion Merchandising, Fashion Design, and more.

Here are a few of our fantastic study abroad locations that offer classes in Fashion.

1. Milan, Italy

Renowned as “The Fashion Capital of the World,” Milan is a city that exudes style and sophistication. This Northern Italian metropolitan hub is the business center of the country — there’s no shortage of exciting experiences happening here! By choosing Milan as your study abroad destination you’ll find yourself living and learning in a bustling and vibrant atmosphere alongside people from all around the world.

For those interested in fashion and intrigued by Italy, Milan is a fantastic place to study abroad. It attracts both national and international powerhouses in the fashion industry, and is home to some of the world’s most renowned fashion houses like Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Gucci, Valentino, Fendi, and more. Additionally, there’s a growing and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Milan. Fashion businesses, both large and small, find abundant opportunities for growth and innovation here. Did we mention Milan Fashion Week is one of the most exciting and impactful fashion events on Earth?

Students interested in taking Fashion classes abroad in Milan can study at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (UCSC or UNICATT) through AIFS Abroad. 

2. London, England

A city that needs no introduction, London is a global hub of politics, finance, and culture. It stands as one of the world’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, with an abundance of museums, galleries, theaters, historic sites, and lush urban parks. People from around the world flock to London to live, learn, and work. It offers something for every visitor to enjoy!

London’s importance in the field of fashion cannot be overstated — it’s one of the world’s biggest fashion influencers. Home to major fashion houses such as Stella McCartney, Burberry, Vivienne Westwood, and more, it shapes global fashion trends and industries in an extremely significant way. Additionally, with exciting global events like London Fashion Week, the city has been cemented as a must-experience when it comes to all things fashion.

Students interested in taking Fashion classes abroad in London can study at institutions such as University of the Arts London and the University of Westminster through AIFS Abroad, as well as at our very own Global Education Center.

3. Barcelona, Spain

As Spain’s vibrant second-largest city, Barcelona has serious cosmopolitan charm. From Gaudí’s surreal cathedral, La Sagrada Familia, to its dynamic business hub and bustling seafront along the Mediterranean, its allure is undeniable. With origins dating back to the first century BC as the Roman colony of Barcino, Barcelona’s 2,000-year history has shaped its architectural, artistic, and cultural landscape. Its Mediterranean climate, prime location for global travel, and avant-garde atmosphere make it an ideal destination for studying or interning abroad.

Barcelona may not be the first city to come to mind when you think about fashion, but the truth is that it’s one of Spain’s most influential destinations in the industry. It has gained recognition in recent years for being a global trendsetter in fashion and design, including in the shoe, textile, and jewelry sectors. Many Spanish retailers are also increasingly gaining global recognition — like Mango, Zara, and Pull & Bear. As a whole, the city’s rich historical and design heritage — particularly in architecture — have also impacted a wide variety of industries, including fashion.

Students interested in taking fashion classes abroad in Barcelona can study at LCI Barcelona through AIFS Abroad.

4. Florence, Italy

The Italian city of Florence is a timeless blend of art, culture, and history. With iconic landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio, Pitti Palace, Piazza della Signoria, and Accademia (home to the Statue of David), the city is a picturesque backdrop that inspires artists along the Arno River. You’ll love exploring Florence’s many museums, galleries, churches, and theaters. Plus, if you’re a food enthusiast, you’ll be in your glory — Tuscan cuisine is some of the world’s most renowned! Whatever your preferences, Florence provides the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the authentic essence of Italian life and culture.

For college students who are majoring in Fashion or are interested in it, Florence is a great place to live and learn. While primarily known for tourism and the arts, the city has a growing community of creative industries like fashion and design. For centuries, Florence has been hotspot for production of luxury items like leather goods, jewelry, and textiles. The city is also renowned for its artisans whose craftsmanship is highly regarded in skills like leather-working, embroidery, and gold-smithing. With its historical significance, artistic inspiration, and strategic location in Italy, Florence provides a unique environment for fashion businesses — both big and small — to thrive amidst a backdrop of creativity and tradition.

Students interested in taking Fashion classes abroad in Florence can study at the AIFS Abroad Global Education Center. It’s located in the heart of the historic center and within walking distance of landmarks like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio and Accademia, as well as numerous stores, restaurants and trattoria. Academic credit for our program in Florence is awarded by Fairfield University, our School of Record.

5. Rome, Italy

You know what they say — there’s no place like Rome. With its sunny climate and literal ancient history around every doorstep, the Eternal City offers an enriching international educational experience. As a student abroad in Rome, you’ll be immersed in over 3,000 years of Western culture. From the iconic Colosseum to the majestic Vatican Museums, visitors stroll along the streets of Italy’s capital city where former emperors, popes, and celebrated figures once walked. Mind blown!

For college students who are interested in the field of fashion or are majoring in it, Rome is a great place to be. Its fashion scene has an impressively blends the traditional, the luxurious, and the contemporary. Many renowned fashion houses and high-end boutiques call Rome home, and some of the world’s best shopping is available here. Not to mention, because it’s Italy’s capital city and a major metropolitan hub, various fashion events and exhibitions featuring emerging designers, couture collections, and new innovations take place here. With its strategic location in Italy and access to international markets, Rome offers opportunities for large and small fashion businesses.

Students interested in taking Fashion classes abroad in Rome can study at the AIFS Abroad Global Education Center. It’s located in the heart of the city within walking distance of historic sites such as the Trevi Fountain and Colosseum. Academic credit for our program in Rome is awarded by Fairfield University, our School of Record.

6. Grenoble, France

Nestled in southeastern France at the foot of the Alps, Grenoble is a must-experience destination. With its rich history dating back to Roman times and its hosting of the 1968 Winter Olympics, the city has long been a global attraction. Despite its small-town charm with a population of around 200,000, Grenoble offers the amenities of a bustling city. Surrounded by majestic mountains like Chartreuse and Belledonne, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and is also one of Europe’s most sustainable cities.

While the city of Grenoble itself may not be a fashion hotspot, the city is known for its strong emphasis on innovation and technology, which have great impact on the industry. As the capital of the French Alps region, the city is home to leading research institutions, technology parks, and high-tech companies, attracting investment and talent from around the world. If you’re interested in innovation and management in the business of fashion, Grenoble is a great place to be.

Students interested in taking Fashion classes abroad in Grenoble can study at Grenoble École de Management, which has 35+ years of leadership in fields like management, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. GEM is now on a mission to be a “School for Business for Society,” promoting an immense positive societal impact. It prioritizes internationalization, multilingual offerings, and a diverse student community. It is committed to innovative teaching methods like gamification and online learning, so students receive hands-on, problem-focused learning experiences. 

7. Paris, France

The City of Light stands as one of the paramount cultural capitals worldwide. It’s full of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and The Louvre. The thing is, to truly grasp the enchantment of Paris, you really need to experience it firsthand. Here, top-tier restaurants and high-fashion boutiques coexist with vintage shops and street-side crêpe vendors, adding to the city’s allure and charm. You’ll find a robust public transportation system, a deep-rooted culinary scene, and passionate locals.

For college students who are interested in the field of fashion or are majoring in it, Paris is a great place to be. France’s capital city and the birthplace of Haute Couture stands as a preeminent global fashion destination, with renowned fashion houses such as Chanel, Christian Dior, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton calling it home. Paris Fashion Week, among other iconic fashion events here, draws top designers and influencers from around the world. The city features upscale shopping districts like Champs-Élysées — although great fashion is truly around every corner in Paris. Its cultural ambiance fosters a unique atmosphere of style and innovation, solidifying its position as a leader in the world of fashion and setting fashion trends around the world.

Students interested in taking fashion classes abroad in Paris can study at the American Business School of Paris (ABSParis) and Institut de Langue et de Culture Françaises (ILCF) through AIFS Abroad.

Why choose just one city to take a fashion class abroad when you can choose multiple? There are so many benefits! On our multi-destination Fashion Marketing Study + Travel program, you’ll travel through London, Paris, Milan, and Florence and learn all about marketing in the context of the fashion industry. You’ll dive deep into the role of marketing communication, its cross-functional importance and how it contributes to the success of a fashion business. Experiential learning opportunities are plentiful along the way. You’ll be able to examine the amazing ways fashion has evolved for various aspects of the industry — from small dressmakers’ workshops serving the elite to mainstream global consumption, in which marketing and communication principles revolutionized the business of fashion forever.

Bonus: Do a Fashion Internship Abroad

Interning abroad is your chance to do something different, learn outside of the classroom, gain work experience, earn academic credit, make lifelong friendships, and explore the world. AIFS Abroad internship programs are offered in 15 exciting international cities and in over 40 career fields overall, with internship placements available in Fashion, Fashion Business, Fashion Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, and Fashion Design. You’ll build your resume while having the experience of a lifetime!

These aren’t the only study abroad locations that offer classes for Fashion majors or enthusiasts.

AIFS Abroad offers study abroad and international internship programs around the world. Maybe you’ve completed your Fashion major’s requirements and are looking to explore other topics through electives, or maybe you want to go to a metropolitan hub where fashion professionals flock to for their career. No matter your goals, we have a program to suit your needs.

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Have any questions about studying or interning abroad with AIFS Abroad? We’re here to help!