Met Monday 2024: How Is Tech Innovating The Fashion Industry?

TechCrunch recently reported on a curious event that occurred at this year’s Met Gala, the iconic fashion extravaganza. A viral post on X showed Katy Perry in a stunning gown, blending into a fairytale scene. However, upon closer inspection, inconsistencies in the carpet’s colour were discovered, indicating that the image was fabricated. Despite gaining millions of views, the authenticity of the post was debunked by the absence of official media coverage and Perry’s cryptic social media activity.

Similarly, a fake image of Rihanna, dressed in a regal garden-themed outfit, spread online, despite her actual absence due to illness. Although these synthetic creations gained attention, they lacked the genuine creativity that is symbolic of the Met Gala.

These incidents emphasise the importance of discernment in an era saturated with deep fake content. They also raise questions about technology’s impact on fashion. Let’s explore how technology has redesigned the fashion industry and top startups that merge fashion and tech.

How Tech Redesigned Fashion

Technology is transforming every aspect of the fashion industry, from design and production to retail and logistics. These advancements are not only improving efficiency and sustainability but also changing the way consumers engage with fashion.

As the industry continues to evolve, embracing technology will be essential for staying competitive and meeting the ever-changing demands of the modern consumer.

Manufacturing

The fashion industry is undergoing a significant transformation as a result of technological advancements, particularly in manufacturing processes. Traditional clothing design and production methods are evolving to meet the demands for speed, efficiency, and sustainability.

Automation and digital product creation are streamlining operations, reducing waste, and enhancing product quality. From advanced cutting machines to sewing robots, automation is revolutionising garment production, offering faster turnaround times and improved consistency.

Sustainable Sourcing And Material Innovation

Additionally, technology is also reshaping the way materials are sourced and utilised in fashion. Innovations such as blockchain provide transparency and traceability in the supply chain, ensuring ethical and sustainable sourcing practices.

Furthermore, advancements in material science are enabling the development of eco-friendly alternatives, from bio-fabricated leathers to recycled textiles. These innovations not only reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry but also offer new possibilities for designers to create innovative and sustainable garments.

Digital Garments And Virtual Retail

The advent of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) is changing the way consumers experience fashion. Digital garments, designed and fitted in virtual environments, offer consumers a new way to interact with fashion without the need for physical samples.

VR and AR technology enable virtual try-ons, allowing consumers to see how garments will look and fit before making a purchase. This not only enhances the shopping experience but also reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional retail practices such as shipping and returns.

Logistics And Customer-Centricity

Fashion logistics is undergoing a significant shift to meet the demands of digital consumers. AI-powered demand forecasting, drone delivery, and sustainable packaging are just a few examples of how technology is optimising the fashion supply chain.

Brands and retailers are leveraging technology to improve delivery speed and efficiency while reducing their carbon footprint. Additionally, technology enables brands to better understand and cater to customer preferences, creating a more personalised and customer-centric shopping experience.

Startups Shaping The Fashion Industry With Tech Innovations

Innovative startups are blending technology and fashion to stay ahead in the ever-evolving fashion industry. Here are a few UK-based startups that we believe are at the forefront of shaping the future of fashion through their pioneering approaches.

These startups are not only embracing technological advancements but also redefining the way we perceive and interact with fashion.

R Reflections

R Reflections, based in Southampton, Hampshire, is disrupting the online clothing retail market by providing virtual reality shopping experiences. Their technology aims to reduce customer disappointment and clothing returns by offering fun, engaging, and personalised shopping experiences.

Partnering with major retailers as well as small sustainable brands, they offer users the opportunity to virtually try on and style thousands of clothing items, aiming for a first-time right pick. With a focus on reducing environmental impact, R Reflections is revolutionising online clothes shopping.

Fashion AI

Fashion AI is revolutionising the fashion industry by merging fashion with technology through artificial intelligence (AI). Their platform offers curated industry news, educational courses, competitions, and global events, fostering innovation and collaboration.

By harnessing AI, they empower designers to create groundbreaking designs while optimising efficiency and sustainability in the fashion industry. Fashion AI is shaping the future of fashion by leading the way towards a more innovative, efficient, and inclusive industry.

PhygitalTwin

PhygitalTwin is a transformative platform bridging digital and physical fashion realms, empowering brands to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences. Through innovative AI and 3D technology, users access a global network of on-demand manufacturers, accelerating speed to market.

From customising designs to immersive digital strategies, PhygitalTwin revolutionises fashion creation and consumption, reducing waste and amplifying brand engagement.

Curobe

Curobe aims to simplify sustainable and ethical fashion choices for women by addressing the key problem of finding the right fit and size. Their platform guides users through a three-step process to create a personalised profile and curates recommendations from responsible brand partners based on body shape and preferences.

With a focus on quality, fit, and conscious consumption, Curobe empowers women to build a wardrobe that aligns with their values and style.

VAIVR

VAIVR revolutionises online fashion retail with immersive 3D try-on technology. Their software offers a virtual in-store experience, reducing returns and enhancing conversions for fashion brands.

Using computer vision and deep learning, VAIVR generates accurate 3D representations of shoppers’ bodies, allowing personalised garment fittings. With seamless integration, personalised collections, and shopper privacy prioritised, VAIVR empowers brands to engage customers and improve their online shopping experience.

Esenca

Esenca pioneers AI-powered body measurement technology, transforming the fashion industry. By harnessing artificial intelligence and computer vision, Esenca provides accurate sizing recommendations based on just two user photos.

Seamlessly integrated with businesses’ systems, it ensures personalised customer experiences and minimises sizing issues. With a focus on data privacy and GDPR compliance, Esenca empowers brands to streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction, revolutionising the way fashion measurements are conducted.