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2.4 AI & Digitalization in fashion

Essence of the problem

Artificial intelligence technologies have become the driving force behind innovation in the fashion sector.

Humans have always sought a mechanical device to serve them, help them, and do the work for them that is difficult and time-consuming, without surpassing human intelligence in terms of capabilities. Today we live in a time where technology is changing man and man is constantly changing and developing technology. The process reflects on all spheres of everyday life, business and economy and is definitely already part of the environment that surrounds us

Challenges and solutions:

Artificial intelligence for the creation of computer-generated models.

We can define this move as part of the “journey towards digital transformation” in the field of diversity, equality, inclusion and sustainability.

While this sounds like a noble initiative on the surface, it’s essentially hiring a robot to give the impression of diversity while relieving itself of the burden of paying people who have the vision the company wants to be associated with its brand.

The idea is to “give artificial intelligence greater representation in the fashion industry” and “create an inclusive, sustainable and diverse design chain”. It aims to enable users to see how different fashion items would look on a person who looks like them through “hyper-realistic” models “for every body type, age, size and skin colour”.

“AI will probably never completely replace human models,” but it’s kind of a first step toward automating the fashion industry. As the “photography”, art and texts generated by artificial intelligence become more and more convincing, such steps are only related to principles such as promoting diversity and caring for the environment, but it should not be forgotten that such an approach solves the problem with the hiring of additional people for models.

Use of e-commerce

In the past few years, technology has also accelerated the use of e-commerce, with the additional implementation of digital tools becoming the basis for business development.

Artificial intelligence technologies have become the driving force behind e-commerce and fashion sector innovation.

On the way to its further technological transformation, fashion e-commerce will need to prioritise which area of technology to concentrate on.

Improving the customer experience is undoubtedly another good example of the application of technology in fashion e-commerce. Today, consumers are increasingly burdened by the presence of too many choices between fashion brands. One way to address this is to tailor content and user experience using first-hand data and AI.

A personalised offer not only improves the customer experience, but also increases the conversion rate, which leads to higher sales. To take advantage of this, brands will need to invest strategically in all of their data optimization and analytics – from collection to implementation.

Data collection – data privacy and new regulations pose the dilemma of how to collect data responsibly. The key is to collect the data in a reliable way and offer something in return.

Data Analysis – After collecting and storing data with unique identifiers, advanced AI models and machine learning algorithms must go ahead and analyse customer behaviour data as well.

Delivering customer results – these are tools to deliver personalization to each customer and create experiences that drive customer engagement and ultimately customer loyalty.

CAD/CAM software

The world’s leading brands depend on CAD/ CAM software to design, model and market their products as quickly and efficiently as possible.

3D simulators for 3D clothing design significantly reduce the number of pre-production models. This means that 3D models can be created on virtual mannequins. This optimises time, facilitates work and reduces costs and wasted material.

CAD tools for pre-production of items allow the design to be opened and tests carried out at the same time, such as seeing that the garment is perfect, along with other necessary adjustments. 3D CAD tools allow the models to be used to create a virtual catalogue. This attracts the attention of customers and facilitates sales.

When it comes to fashion technology, CAD software allows for quick and easy automation of pattern creation. It offers companies the safety they need to create models with precision, quickly grade foundations, make quality fits and make better use of material.

In addition to producing technical drawings with specific and exclusive features, CAD/ CAM software integrates creativity and development processes, allowing the cost of a garment to be simulated at the stage of creation. With them, you don’t have to choose between creativity or productivity. Systems can simulate garment costs at the creation stage. This ensures much more flexibility in decision-making and helps achieve the expected financial return.

Best practices related to AI & Digitalization in fashion production

Best practices: Katty Fashion, WiseEye, CALA AI, 3DLOOK 1822 Denim, Smartex AI , Zara x Jetlore, ThreadSol IntelloCut, Algorithmic Couture

Name:	Katty Fashion
Link:	https://katty-fashion.com/
Industry sector:	Innovative technologies in garment manufacture
Location:	Iași, Romania
Description:	Instead of developing patterns and fit using vague body related information, they develop styles by transforming and manipulating features of pre-fitted basic shapes (blocks and templates). This approach allows them to not only be more efficient and waste less in the process but also ensures that garments always fit perfectly in a consistent and reliable manner.In order to implement the protocol, they require the following information: Body measurements of the representative of your target group.Overall fit intent i.e. how the garment is meant to fit the customer: fitted, looser, etc.. If available, a set of basic shapes (blocks and/or templates). If there are none, they can be developed by their team, according to specific measurements; or use their standard pre-fitted shapes. Please note that there will be a surcharge for the use of the in-house standard fit.A sizing table.
Impact in numbers:	On average, 50% less samples. This is not only 50% less time and cost but also 50% less waste – waste that, whenever technologically and logistically possible, they recycle.
Environmental benefits:	A significant reduction in waste and transportation emissions due to reducing the samples created, as well as waste during production, through selecting the most efficient shapes
Social & economic benefits:	The client’s production costs decrease and lead times are decreased
Technological & innovative benefits:	The use of 3D sampling is a highly-innovative cutting-edge technology used lately in the fashion industry

Name:	CALA AI
Link:	https://www.fastcompany.com/90903514/calla-ai-fashion-design-manufacture-clothes https://ca.la/
Industry sector:	AI & Digitalization in fashion production
Location:	USA
Description:	CALA AI is an innovative platform that integrates AI and machine learning to streamline the fashion supply chain, from design to manufacturing and pricing. It’s particularly useful for designers looking to launch fashion brands, simplifying complex garment-making processes. CALA handles the complex back-end logistics of bringing a collection to market so their customers can focus on what they do best, ideate.
Impact in numbers:	CALA supports over 40 brands and independent designers, including NBA teams and notable designers like KidSuper.CALA’s partner network consists of a global supply chain including over 60 factories in 13 countries, with 16 fulfillment centers in four regions.
Environmental benefits:	By optimizing the production process, CALA potentially reduces waste and improves sustainability in the fashion industry.
Social & economic benefits:	CALA makes it easier for designers to launch and manage fashion brands, democratizing access to the fashion industry and a network of suppliers.
Technological & innovative benefits:	CALA’s use of AI, including DALL-E from OpenAI, for brainstorming and design, represents a significant advancement in fashion technology. It automates various aspects of the design process, enhancing creativity and efficiency.

Name:	3DLOOK x 1822 DENIM
Link:	https://3dlook.ai/content-hub/case-study-how-1822-denim-reduced-returns-by-30/
Industry sector:	AI & Digitalization in fashion production
Location:	New York, USA
Description:	YourFit is a cross-platform web-based widget by 3DLOOK that captures consumers’ body data using just two smartphone photos, providing accurate size recommendations for online fashion shoppers. It aims to reduce returns, improve conversions, and enhance the overall shopping experience.
Impact in numbers:	4x increase in conversion rates for 1822 Denim.30% reduction in returns for 1822 Denim. 90% of customers feel confident in personalized fit recommendations. 70% of widget users make purchases on the brand’s website. 80% of 1822 Denim’s customers are more petite and curvier than the standard fit model.
Environmental benefits:	Reduced returns mean fewer shipping-related emissions and less resource wastage. Accurate sizing recommendations lead to fewer garments being produced but not worn, reducing overproduction.
Social & economic benefits:	Improved customer confidence and satisfaction. Optimization of the fashion supply chain, leading to cost savings.Increased sales and revenue for fashion brands.Potential for more sustainable fashion practices.
Technological & innovative benefits:	Utilizes computer vision, neural networks, and 3D modeling for accurate body measurements. Provides a seamless and personalized shopping experience. Allows for the collection of valuable customer data for analysis and product optimization. Supports sustainability by reducing waste in the fashion industry.

Name:	Algorithmic Couture
Link:	https://www.dezeen.com/2019/03/27/algorithmic-couture-digital-fashion-customisation/ https://zenbird.media/algorithmic-couture-uses-ai-to-create-zero-waste-fashion/
Industry sector:	Innovative technologies in garment manufacture, AI & Digitalization in fashion production
Location:	Tokyo, Japan
Description:	Algorithmic Couture is an innovative project that merges fashion design with advanced technologies like 3D scanning, machine learning, and computer-aided design (CAD). Its primary aim is to create zero-waste, customized clothing by optimizing garment patterns to each individual’s body shape, thereby reducing fabric waste.
Impact in numbers:	The project significantly reduces fabric waste, which is typically about 15% in conventional fashion production methods, aiming to bring this number down to zero.
Environmental benefits:	The initiative addresses sustainability in fashion by reducing fabric wastage and promoting the creation of garments that are precisely tailored to individual needs, thus contributing to a more sustainable fashion industry.
Social & economic benefits:	Algorithmic Couture democratizes the concept of bespoke fashion, making it more accessible and personalized. It allows consumers to participate in the design process, choosing shapes, fabrics, and colors that reflect their personal style.
Technological & innovative benefits:	Algorithmic Couture introduces a transformative approach to fashion design, combining digitization and AI to create a unique, sustainable, and highly personalized fashion experience. By employing 3D scanning and machine learning, it reimagines the way clothing is designed and produced, emphasizing zero waste and customization. This innovation could lead to a significant shift in the fashion industry, promoting more sustainable practices and personalized fashion.

Name:	ThreadSol IntelloCut
Link:	https://www.awnewscenter.com/238429/
Industry sector:	AI & Digitalization in garment manufacture
Location:	Singapore, Colombia
Description:	ThreadSol introduced intelloCut, the world’s first artificial intelligence-based fabric optimization software, designed to assist Colombian apparel manufacturers. This software aims to minimize fabric wastage, enhance cost-saving measures, and boost profitability in the competitive fashion manufacturing sector.
Impact in numbers:	Deployed in 15 countriesUsed by over 120 manufacturersPlans 3.3 billion garments annuallyHelps apparel factories save up to 10% on fabric costs
Environmental benefits:	intelloCut helps reduce fabric wastage significantly, thereby contributing to sustainable manufacturing practices and reducing the environmental footprint of the apparel industry.
Social & economic benefits:	By optimizing fabric usage and cutting processes, intelloCut enables manufacturers to save costs and improve their margins, which can have positive implications for the industry’s economic health and workers’ welfare.
Technological & innovative benefits:	intelloCut incorporates AI to automate and optimize planning processes on the cutting floor. It dramatically reduces the order planning time from 30 minutes to under 3 minutes and uses AI to plan small markers to utilize all end bits on the floor, striving towards a wastage-free factory. The software is also mobile-driven, offering real-time performance reports, which revolutionize industry standards globally.

Name:	Zara x Jetlore AI
Link:	https://aiexpert.network/case-study-zaras-comprehensive-approach-to-ai-and-supply-chain-management/#:~:text=The%20company%20combines%20the%20principles,performance%2C%20and%20even%20consumer%20behavior
Industry sector:	AI & Digitalization in fashion production, EU Product Passport & RFID
Location:	Spain
Description:	Zara has integrated AI across its operations, including supply chain and customer engagement. By collaborating with Jetlore, Zara predicts customer behavior using structured predictive attributes, enhancing inventory visibility with RFID tags, and optimizing logistics to maintain a competitive edge in the fast fashion industry.
Environmental benefits:	The use of AI and real-time data analytics in Zara’s Just-In-telligent supply chain system allows for real-time optimization of inventory and logistics, leading to reduced waste and more available popular items.
Social & economic benefits:	Zara’s strategic use of AI has led to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty. Their approach to managing the supply chain with AI has resulted in reduced lead times, improved delivery accuracy, and minimized inventory costs, contributing to economic efficiency and customer retention.
Technological & innovative benefits:	Zara’s holistic approach to AI includes collaboration with technology partners like Tyco and Jetlore, embedding microchips into clothing tags for inventory management, and using sophisticated logistics systems. This enables Zara to rapidly respond to market trends and consumer demands, showcasing a benchmark application of AI in retail operations.

Glossary of terms:

STORMFLEECE™ – a single-layer fabric that combines a traditional two-layer softshell with fleece, without the need for a membrane.

Smart textiles – production of textiles for technical and medical purposes, emphasizing quality requirements for finished garments for monitoring vital indicators (for functionality, aesthetics, durability and others) and defining requirements for: textile materials (composition, structure, physical – mechanical indicators and other); the compositional elements and construction parameters of the clothing; the electronic elements (sensors, wires, flexible electronic control boards, power elements and others), applying principles from the high-tech textile design and research method.

Industry 4.0 – represents today’s trend in the development of automation and data exchange in production technologies. Industry 4.0 implies such industrial development that will fundamentally change various aspects of people’s lives.

Moulding method for form building – / French origin of the word: ” moulage ” / – the first method for creating an exact copy of the human body, and/or clothing, taking into account the shapes and sizes of the human body and which takes into account the plastic and other properties of the material .

CAD/CAM software – Under the concept of CAD lies Computer Aided Design (eng.) or, in literal translation, design with the help of a computer. CAD systems are related to CAM systems – Computer Aided Manufacturing (English), which in a literal translation into Bulgarian means production with the help of a computer.

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