Top 5 Tech Advancements Reshaping Design Trends

One of the largest global industries, expected to reach $3.3 trillion by 2030, fashion surprisingly remains relatively unchanged in its operations over the past two decades.

This is partly due to the continued availability of inexpensive manual labor in various countries and the option to outsource costly production expenses. 

Nevertheless, the growing concerns regarding fair wages, environmental impact, and meeting the demands of today’s highly connected consumers have paved the way for exciting new technologies.

Consumers now anticipate immediate access to the latest trends once they hit the runways through social media. Concurrently, younger generations striving for individuality seek customizable products tailored to their unique preferences. 

Moreover, there seems to be a declining interest in mass-produced or fast-fashion garments.

Artificial Intelligence

Brands have increasingly utilized AI to enhance customer shopping experiences, analyze data, drive sales, predict trends, and offer inventory guidance.

As generative AI (gen AI) gained momentum in 2023, more business applications emerged. To unlock its benefits, fashion industry players must move past automation and explore how gen AI can elevate the work of human creatives.

Conventional fashion design techniques can be time-consuming, with styles taking 3 to 8 months to move from concept to production. Integrating generative AI could accelerate the creative process, reduce designers’ manual work, and cut costs on materials needed for physical prototypes.

Vector Editors

Alternative options to Adobe Illustrator are becoming more popular. They serve as excellent picks for individuals who are new to graphic design software or lack access to Illustrator or Sketch. Simply engage in basic vector graphics editing.

Several online vector editors offer ready-made templates designed by fashion or graphic designers. Repsketch offers an array of clothing templates with options for various collars, sleeves, and pockets. 

This robust vector editor enables rapid creation of fresh apparel designs without the need to start from a blank canvas. For branding designs, you can learn with Picsart and create a fashion logo in minutes.

Fit-Tech for Better Sizing

Inconsistent sizing poses a significant hurdle for the fashion industry, but solutions may be within reach. Advancements in machine learning, computer vision, AI, AR mirrors, and body scanners could lead to breakthroughs in virtual fitting technologies.

By leveraging these tools, fashion brands can develop personalized sizing solutions for better-fitting garments, ultimately reducing return rates.

An illustration of this is Les Aimanats, a bridal wear brand that utilizes 3D-scanning technology. This technology enables brides to capture photos at home for precise body measurements, similar to manual measuring tape.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Blending the physical and digital realms of retail stands out as one of the most thrilling applications of Virtual Reality. A prime example lies in the fashion sector, where VR allows customers to test outfits virtually, offering precise fit through personalized measurements and utilizing augmented reality tech. This approach can boost purchase likelihood by letting customers virtually try on items.

Such online shopping encounters captivate customers for longer periods, as they enjoy previewing products on themselves before purchase. This feature becomes even more enticing to customers when coupled with social media sharing.

Platforms to Simplify Sourcing

As geopolitical tensions persist, sourcing poses a significant challenge for many. The emergence of various technological solutions aims to streamline the sourcing process. One rising trend is the utilization of sourcing marketplaces, enabling brands to engage with suppliers globally.

Businesses increasingly want to diversify sourcing channels or enhance ties with current suppliers. Product lifecycle management solutions like WFX PLM, equipped with a Vendor Portal for instant communication, are vital for consumer brands seeking stronger supplier relationships.

Endnote

Adopting these technological trends in the fashion industry may initially seem challenging or costly, but their long-term benefits are essential. They create new opportunities for companies and designers to break away from traditional methods and explore innovative and engaging strategies.