Answer:
Before the end of the Cold War Eastern Europe was mostly communist countries while Western Europe was mostly non-communist countries. Eastern Europe was primarily considered to be a cultural civilization and a crossroad of society due to Constantinople being a major city along important trade routes like the Silk Roads. At the same time, Western Europe countries had mixed economies and governments, along with various free markets that were totally different from the command structures found in communist countries.
Both became more similar after the end of the Cold War when the Soviet Union buckled in 1991. Now there is less to distinguish between the two due to free markets allowing for greater shopping advantages, including the areas of fashion, décor, and daily living in Eastern Europe. Although Eastern Europe is still catching up to Western Europe they have made great strides in adopting western ideas, philosophies, and culture.