The figures are clear: in ten years, knife attacks in Europe have skyrocketed, rising from tens of thousands of cases annually to record levels, particularly in France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. This phenomenon, fueled by political, social, and demographic factors, is the grim daily reality of a deep-rooted, growing, and persistent insecurity across all territories of these countries.
In this context, fashion is evolving. It can no longer be merely aesthetic: it is becoming functional and protective. The V007 jacket from VEST PARIS , both bulletproof and knife-resistant, elegant and high-end, embodies this new era where your everyday clothing becomes a true suit of armor.
Europe faces an unprecedented climate of violence
For the past decade, Europe has been undergoing a profound transformation in its relationship with security. In the streets of Paris, London, Berlin, and Stockholm, incidents involving knife attacks and urban violence have multiplied, fueling a growing sense of anxiety. This feeling is not merely emotional: official figures confirm a steady increase in intentional assaults in many countries.
According to Eurostat , the European Union recorded nearly 3,930 intentional homicides in 2023, compared to approximately 3,600 ten years earlier. At the same time, sexual violence surged by 79% between 2013 and 2023, and rapes more than doubled.
This security-conscious climate partly explains the rise of a previously marginal market: that of urban protective clothing . Stylish bulletproof jackets, high-end knife-resistant parkas, reinforced bags… Once reserved for law enforcement, this equipment now appeals to a wider civilian clientele: business executives, international travelers, public figures, but also city dwellers concerned with protecting themselves with discreet security solutions .
Ten years of rising violence in Europe
We have decided to focus on just three European countries, even though the vast majority of them are affected by this phenomenon. All the figures presented are based on official data and reports from the countries concerned. They are free from any ideological bias but simply report facts, a reality, and undeniable statistics.
The situation in France
The Ministry of the Interior indicates that intentional assaults and injuries outside the family setting have increased from 227,000 in 2016 to more than 384,000 in 2023 , representing an increase of nearly 70% in seven years.
Regarding knife attacks , a parliamentary question in the Senate revealed that 44,000 victims were recorded between 2015 and 2017, representing nearly 120 attacks per day. More recently, the National Police recorded 10,397 knife attacks in 2024 in the police jurisdiction alone, which equates to approximately 28 incidents per day.
Germany and the surge in knife attacks
In Germany, the trend is similar. The Federal Ministry of the Interior published figures in 2024 showing 8,951 serious knife attacks in 2023 , compared to 8,160 in 2022. In ten years, the number of serious knife injuries has almost doubled. Large cities like Berlin and Hamburg are particularly affected, especially in train stations and public spaces.
The United Kingdom, at the heart of the “knife crime” crisis
Across the Channel, the data is even more alarming. According Reuters reports that knife-related offenses in England and Wales have increased by 87% in the last ten years . The Office for National Statistics recorded 244 knife homicides for the year ending March 2023 , the highest number since records began.
Evolution of violence in Europe (2013–2024)
Here is a summary table of the main statistics available for the past decade. This data, from Eurostat, the French Ministry of the Interior, the Senate, Le Monde , the Guardian , and AP News, illustrates the overall increase in violence:
Table – Evolution of violence in Europe (2013–2024)
|
Year |
France - Intentional assault and battery (outside the family) |
France - Knife attacks (national police zone) |
Germany - Knife attacks |
UK - Knife/bladed weapon offences |
UK - Knife homicides |
EU - Intentional Homicides |
|
2013 |
|
|
4500.0 |
25000.0 |
130.0 |
|
|
2016 |
227000.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2020 |
300000.0 |
|
7000.0 |
40000.0 |
220.0 |
3600.0 |
|
2023 |
384100.0 |
|
8951.0 |
47000.0 |
244.0 |
3930.0 |
|
2024 |
|
10397.0 |
|
|
|
|
This table highlights several strong trends: the nearly 70% increase in assaults and injuries in France, the explosion of knife-related offenses in the United Kingdom (+87% in ten years), and the doubling of knife attacks in Germany since 2014.
Graph – Increase in knife attacks and physical violence in Europe
The graph clearly shows the parallel increase in physical violence in France and knife attacks in Germany and the United Kingdom. This European trend is therefore not simply a matter of feeling insecure, but a measurable evolution over time.
The causes of a multifaceted phenomenon
The increase in violence can be explained by a combination of factors: policies implemented over the past 50 years, sometimes inadequate parenting, neglected neighborhoods, a surge in crime linked to trafficking of all kinds, a justice system sometimes out of touch with reality, and so on. Not to mention official data published in Germany, France, England, and Sweden, which also show an overrepresentation of young men from recent immigrant backgrounds among perpetrators of knife attacks. This represents a cultural import affecting increasingly younger people, according to a 2019 French INSEE study.
Bladed weapons are a particular danger because they are legal, cheap and ubiquitous, unlike firearms which are more strictly controlled.
Regarding the justice system mentioned above, the slowness of legal proceedings and the often relatively lenient penalties for carrying knives are frequently criticized. Several experts from various fields emphasize that this situation reduces the deterrent effect of criminal law and perpetuates a sense of insecurity.
The advent of knife-resistant clothing
The global ballistic and stab-resistant protection market is booming. According to Global Market Insights , it is valued at $15 billion in 2024 and could exceed $26 billion by 2033. The civilian bulletproof jacket and knife-resistant clothing segment is one of the most dynamic, particularly in Europe where demand for stylish urban security apparel is rapidly increasing.
Technological innovations have profoundly transformed these products. High-strength fibers like Kevlar , aramid, and Dyneema guarantee protection against bullets and blades. But the real breakthrough lies in the ability to integrate these materials into jackets that maintain a high-end, urban aesthetic.
This movement aligns with the Quiet Luxury trend , which values understated elegance and fine materials rather than ostentation. The discreet bulletproof jacket thus becomes a high-end security fashion item, both practical and refined.
The V007 jacket from VEST PARIS : elegance as armor
In this context, VEST PARIS stands out as a pioneer. The Parisian fashion house understood that urban bulletproof and knife-resistant clothing cannot resemble military armor. The protection must remain invisible to be wearable every day, socially acceptable, and in line with contemporary ready-to-wear codes.
The iconic V007 bulletproof and stab-resistant jacket from VEST PARIS , certified NIJ IIIA, exemplifies this vision. It offers discreet protection against handguns and knife attacks, while boasting a stylish cut and premium finishes. It is currently the leading bulletproof jacket in its segment in Europe.
Recognizing that the price of such equipment places it in the very high-end market, VEST PARIS now offers payment plans and even daily rentals of its stab-proof and bulletproof vests. This unique offering in Europe allows travelers, executives, and individuals to benefit from exceptional protection, even on a temporary basis.
FAQ
Does knife-resistant clothing stop all blades?
Knife-resistant clothing is designed to withstand knife blows and vertical punctures. However, depending on the chosen standard, it may be more or less effective against certain types of blades (pointed, serrated, or improvised sharp objects). The V007 jacket from VEST PARIS combines several tested technical layers to offer optimal protection against the majority of knife attacks encountered in urban environments.
What is the difference between a knife-resistant vest and a knife-resistant jacket?
A stab-proof vest is often conspicuous, worn over clothing, and reserved for law enforcement or security personnel. Conversely, a stylish stab-proof jacket like the V007 from VEST PARIS is discreet and worn like a classic urban garment. It allows you to remain protected while maintaining a sophisticated and upscale appearance, true to the Quiet Luxury trend.
Is it legal to buy a bulletproof jacket in France?
Yes. In France, NIJ Level IIIA bulletproof and stab-resistant clothing (designed to protect against handguns and bladed weapons) is legal for purchase and possession by private individuals. However, military-grade protection (capable of stopping assault rifles, Level IV) is reserved for the armed forces and law enforcement.
How much does a stylish and discreet bulletproof jacket cost?
A high-end NIJ IIIA-certified bulletproof jacket typically costs several thousand euros, depending on the materials used (Kevlar, Dyneema, premium fabrics like Loro Piana) and the level of protection. The V007 jacket from VEST PARIS , a European leader in this segment, is available for purchase with installment payment options.
Is it possible to rent a bulletproof vest for a one-off occasion?
Yes. VEST PARIS offers daily rental of bulletproof vests . This solution allows business travelers, executives, or individuals to access exceptional protection for a specific trip or event without immediately investing in a purchase.
Does a bulletproof vest also protect against knives?
It all depends on the model. Classic ballistic vests are designed to protect against bullets, but not necessarily against bladed weapons. The V007 vest from VEST PARIS combines knife and bulletproof protection , making it particularly suitable for the risks encountered in major European cities.
Why do we talk about “high-end security mode”?
Because the new generation of protective clothing is no longer just about being effective: it must also be stylish, discreet, and comfortable . Inspired by the Quiet Luxury trend, the VEST PARIS V007 illustrates this evolution by transforming personal safety into a lifestyle experience.