The fashion industry, known for its creativity and trendsetting, is undergoing a remarkable transformation thanks to the infusion of technology. As traditional practices are challenged, disruptive innovations are paving the way for a new era of sustainable and customer-centric fashion.
Last week’s Tech for Fashion event organised by Reaktor aimed to shed light on these developments. Held on 15 June, it served as a vibrant platform for industry leaders, tech enthusiasts, and forward-thinking businesses to converge and explore the intersection of fashion and technology.
A fusion of fashion and technology
The Tech for Fashion event exemplified the synergy between the seemingly disparate realms of fashion and technology. From the advent of sustainable materials to the integration of virtual reality, attendees were exposed to many possibilities that will redefine how we perceive and engage with fashion.
Innovative materials and manufacturing
One of the highlights of the event was a presentation on cutting-edge materials and manufacturing techniques. Industry pioneers showcased their work, demonstrating how they are leveraging technology to create sustainable alternatives to traditional fabrics. From biodegradable textiles to upcycled materials, these innovative solutions offer fashion brands an opportunity to reduce their environmental footprint and cater to the growing demand for sustainable fashion.
Virtual reality and augmented reality
The event also delved into virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), showcasing how these immersive technologies can revolutionise how consumers interact with fashion. Attendees were given a glimpse into a future where virtual showrooms and fitting rooms become the norm. By bridging the gap between the physical and digital worlds, VR and AR are transforming the shopping experience, enabling customers to try on clothes virtually, experiment with different styles, and make informed purchasing decisions from the comfort of their homes.
Data-driven personalisation
The fusion of technology and fashion extends beyond the physical realm, as data-driven personalisation emerges as a game-changer for the industry. The event emphasised the power of harnessing customer data to deliver tailor-made experiences, enabling fashion brands to understand individual preferences, provide personalised recommendations, and foster stronger customer loyalty.
Last week, women’s wear brand Anne Fontaine announced its partnership with industry cloud company, Infor to modernise its information system via automated tracking and the management of sales with a view of creating a truly omnichannel customer experience.
By leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms, companies can anticipate trends, minimise wasteful production, and ensure their offerings align with evolving customer desires.
Collaboration and sustainable innovation
The Tech for Fashion event highlighted the significance of collaboration between technology experts, fashion designers, and sustainability advocates. By forging strategic partnerships and sharing knowledge, stakeholders across the industry can drive meaningful change and unlock new opportunities. The event fostered an environment conducive to collaboration, inspiring attendees to exchange ideas, challenge conventions, and work collectively towards a more sustainable and inclusive fashion ecosystem.
Tech for Fashion proved to be an eye-opening conference that revealed technology’s immense potential for reshaping the future of fashion. By embracing innovative materials, leveraging virtual and augmented reality, and harnessing the power of data, the fashion industry can pave the way for a more sustainable, personalised, and immersive consumer experience.
As fashion brands and technology pioneers continue to collaborate, the possibilities for innovation are endless. The experts emphasised the need for a collective effort in reimagining the industry, and it is by ensuring we continue to have open discussions and conversations that we can chart a path toward a brighter, more sustainable and tech-driven future for fashion.
Top news stories on Just Style last week…
Apparel imports to the US from China saw the biggest decline of the top 10 major suppliers as fashion brands look to reduce their China exposure.
‘Made in America’ – it should be promising for US-based clothing manufacturers. But a loophole awarding contracts to US prisons means they are fighting a losing battle. And then there’s the forced labour concern. AAFA’s CEO and president Steve Lamar, tells us more.
A report released by independent Turkmen rights groups claims there is systematic use of forced labour within Turkmenistan’s annual cotton harvest at the same time as the International Labour Organization is examining Turkmenistan’s compliance with its obligation to end forced labour.
Dr Laurie-Ann Agama, acting assistant US Trade Representative (USTR) for Textiles, recently concluded a productive three-day tour of “cutting-edge” US textile manufacturing facilities in North and South Carolina.
Fashion retailer C&A is working with digital technology company Coats Digital to introduce standardised time, method, cost, and capacity forecasting throughout its supplier network and improve its sourcing process.
The report found that 78% of consumers are willing to pay the same or more for next-gen materials compared to conventional options.
US-based mixed textile recycler Circ and a subsidiary of Taiwan-based Acelon Chemicals and Fibre Corporation, Acegreen Eco-Material Technology (Acegreen) partner to manufacture filament lyocell for the fashion industry in an effort to substantially decrease carbon emissions.
Knitwear brand Sheep Inc has launched what it describes as the world’s first naturally negative carbon footprint t-shirt with a Near Field Communication (NFC) enabled tag for consumers to trace the source and environmental impact of their purchase.
