As society progresses further into the digital era, it is imperative that industries continue to adapt with the changing times and consumer needs. It is no different for fashion, where technology can serve as a tool to innovate and create an endless amount of possibilities. A particularly hot area within fashion right now is 3D technology. 3D technology is enabling retailers and manufactures to get products to consumers quicker, while limiting sample and other waste in the process. This trend has been further accelerated by the Coronavirus pandemic. A push towards digitization has also limited the need for in person fashion shows. These are just a few examples of how 3D tech is disrupting the industry. Below are the top trends in 3D tech for fashion:
Virtual Reality (Fashion Shows)
3D technology serves as a modern method providing a plethora of advantages and contributions to the world of fashion. Physically attending a fashion show is no longer necessary as 3D technology allows a virtual reality attendance. With the integral role the internet plays in constant trend updates, speeding up the development of apparel allows the fashion industry to quickly adjust and meet the needs of the newest trends.
Xcommons creates a virtually enhanced 3D runway for virtual fashion showcase with ICY
3D Designing Replacing Sampling
Virtual sampling is more efficient as designers can easily create new ideas online across a network of devices. These virtual tools allow them to customize each garment with features such as color, size, and texture, and fit. A popular tool being used across a wide network of retailers is Vstitcher by Browzwear.
A major benefit is that multiple contributors can work simultaneously on a single design as they are no longer limited by the physical constraints of working with fabric. The tech offers constant innovation with its easy experimentation as various fabrics and cuts are no longer necessary.
Virtual Fitting
As more retailers continue to further expand and focus on their online presence, the fit of clothing becomes a significant obstacle. But as online shopping does increase, so do returns. Returns not only cost retailers billions each year but also decrease a customer’s willingness to buy in the future. Online shoppers are usually skeptical about the fit and look of new clothing, and could result in lower conversion rates at checkout. But with brick and mortar shops becoming less popular, physically trying on the clothing is not always an option.
This issue leads to the growth and increasing need for virtual fitting. With new technology such as virtual fitting, apparel can now be seen on a consumer through their mobile device. And this can all be done from the comfort of one’s home! Utilizing augmented reality and artificial intelligence, customers gain the ability to virtually try on clothing with a precise, real-time fitting. Online customers gain an enhanced level of interaction with the product that they otherwise would not have.
Conclusion
In conclusion, times are changing as technology continues to emerge and impact our day to day lives. The future of fashion will only continue to evolve, becoming increasingly globalized and accessible. Rather than shipping samples around from designer to manufacturer, a simple click will now suffice. It is evident that use of virtual sampling and similar 3D technology will only continue to grow as the industry progresses further towards the virtual space.