Over the past couple of years, the presence of artificial intelligence has revolutionized industries across the globe. Whether it be agriculture, transportation, or healthcare, the increased intelligence of computing systems has transformed the tasks ultimately carried out by employees today. Such an industry that is not quite common is fashion. Revenues in the global apparel industry are projected to reach 2.25 trillion dollars by 2025, and the utilization of artificial intelligence will only magnify this growth. To understand the role of artificial intelligence in fashion, let’s take a look at three key applications of this technology in the field:
Trend Forecasting
Trend forecasting, by definition, is the “act of predicting fashion trends including colors, fabrics, silhouettes, patterns, styles, and more for clothing collections in the upcoming seasons.” The reason such a concept exists is that fashion trends are relatively cyclical; trends emerge, undergo a five-stage cycle from introduction to obsolescence, and re-emerge after an indefinite period of time post-obsolescence. Engaging with trend forecasting is highly labor-intensive, requiring “manual or digital observation and data collection from fashion designers and influencers.” However, by utilizing artificial intelligence, such data collection can be automated. Retail analytics firm Edited is engaging with trend forecasting a little differently; for the past eight years, they have used machine learning to identify common color themes at runway shows, and are now adding silhouette, texture, and print capabilities as well. Companies like Tagwalk are even able to collect mass data on runway shows and sell such reports (compiled using algorithms). As explained by Ashley Paintsil, a fashion journalism professor at the University of Delaware, “trend forecasting relies on data,” and such data is more accessible with artificial intelligence.Virtual Try-On
reality and artificial intelligence have shifted the way consumers interact with goods prior to purchase. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, wherein brick-and-mortar stores suffered from less foot traffic, virtual try-on was the solution. From the ease and comfort of their home, a consumer could try on a new pair of shoes, or the foundation shade they’re considering purchasing. Snap, for example, utilizes “3D Body Mesh to replicate real-life fits as Snapchatters try virtual clothes on via the camera, implementing voice-enabled controls to let the app know they’re looking to browse and try on in AR.” In addition, a new cloth simulation machine learning algorithm is in the works, to mimic the movement of fabric. Artificial intelligence technology is even able to recommend clothes to customers when given height, weight, shape, and current size. At least 20% of online-bought products are returned, but artificial intelligence seems to be the solution; it improves customer understanding and experience when it comes to online purchases.Productivity and Stock
The usage of artificial intelligence in fashion is crucial for inventory management and business productivity. By keeping a record of sales, returns, and online purchases, retail managers are better able to understand consumer demand and general stock necessities. In fact, according to a survey by Capgemini, artificial intelligence could help retailers save $340 billion annually by 2022. Such efficiency has an environmental impact as well. The fashion industry is one of the biggest global polluters, responsible for 10% of global CO2 emissions. By having greater insights on inventory needs, artificial intelligence controls inventory levels, reducing stock by 20-50%. This reduction can have incredibly positive impacts on the state of the Earth.
Artificial intelligence has transformed the fashion industry for good, and there is only more to come. Whether it be sustainability, consumer satisfaction, or trend prediction, it’s clear that the impacts are far-reaching, and must be included in discussions about the fate of fashion. Follow the exciting work DeepEdge is doing in the beauty and fashion industry.
