AI's Impact on the Fashion Industry: Design, Retail, and Beyond

For Gianluca Traina, artificial intelligence (AI) marked a significant return to the fashion industry. After studying fashion design and working in the sector, Traina shifted to the art world. However, he found a new way to bring his ideas to life through AI, revolutionizing the fashion landscape.

AI is making waves in fashion through tools like Botika and CLO 3D. Botika develops templates for models and backgrounds, while CLO 3D enables virtual prototyping of garments. These tools allow designers to experiment with designs and fabrics before physical creation, reducing waste and enhancing creativity.

Blending Art and AI in Fashion Design

Gianluca Traina has fully integrated AI into his workflow. “When I started working with AI, it became an integral part of my brain. I can’t do anything without this technology,” Traina said. Using tools like MidJourney AI, he explores visual moods and textures, inspiring new design forms. Runway ML helps him create video sequences, bringing his designs to life through digital showcases.

Traina’s work was recognized at A.I. Fashion Week, where he placed in the Top 10. “This competition marks the first time the fashion industry aligns with the power of communication, transitioning into a new era,” Traina explained.

While AI has transformed the industry, Traina believes it cannot fully replace human creativity. “The tech still can’t replicate the human touch of creativity and expression seen in an artist’s work,” he noted.

Modeling in the Age of AI Innovation

Runway model Shaun Anthony Hill sees AI’s impact in the casting process. AI tools generate templates of headshots for designers, but Hill worries that a fully virtual runway could diminish the personal experience. “Being there in the moment and present, seeing the magic happen behind the scenes, is irreplaceable,” Hill said.

AI and Online Retail

Revolve, an online fashion retailer, has embraced AI to enhance its business. Erik Randerson, Senior Vice President of Investor Relations, highlighted AI’s role in imagery development and personalizing the customer experience. Revolve uses data-driven approaches to identify trends, optimize pricing, and predict demand.

Randerson believes traditional retailers face challenges in adapting to AI. “It’s harder for traditional retailers to deploy technology when it hasn’t been part of their core business,” he said. Revolve is experimenting with an AI-driven virtual assistant to ensure accurate fit, reducing return rates.

The Future of AI in the Fashion Industry

AI’s future in fashion remains uncertain, but its presence is undeniable. Professors like Naomi Ellis are preparing students for this evolving landscape. Ellis created a course on developing AI tools for fashion, helping students build confidence and think creatively about the industry’s future.

Students are creating innovative projects, such as a chatbot for shoe selection and a sustainability rating system. Ellis believes these skills will give students a competitive edge in the job market. “AI can enhance, not replace, human creativity. It’s about finding the right balance,” Ellis said.

While AI may automate some tasks, it also opens new opportunities. “I want AI to do my laundry and dishes so I can write poems,” Ellis quoted Joanne McNeil, emphasizing the importance of using AI to free up time for creative pursuits.