The fashion industry is constantly changing. New styles and trends emerge and take the world by storm every season. But what about the technology behind the scenes? Here are nine tech trends that are reshaping the fashion industry.
1. Internet of Things (IoT)
The IoT is a network of physical objects connected to the internet. It includes everything from clothing to accessories to home décor. These items are equipped with sensors and can collect and exchange data. The IoT is changing the way fashion designers create and market their products.
2. Augmented Reality (AR)
AR is a technology that overlays digital information on top of the real world. AR allows users to see how an outfit would look on them before trying it. In 2016, Ralph Lauren became the first fashion brand to use AR in its runway show. This technology is still in its early stages, but we can expect to see more and more retailers using AR soon.
3D printing makes three-dimensional objects from a digital file to create everything from jewelry to shoes in the fashion industry. In 2014, Nike released a limited-edition sneaker made with 3D-printed parts. We will likely see more and more brands using 3D printing to create unique and one-of-a-kind pieces.
4. Virtual Reality (VR)
VR is a technology that allows users to experience digital information in a real-world setting. It is even more immersive than AR because it surrounds the user in a virtual environment. That makes VR ideal for fashion shows and other events where designers want to give their audience an immersive experience. For example, retailers could use VR to give customers a virtual tour of their store or allow them to try on clothes without actually having to be in the same room.
5. Chatbots
A chatbot is a computer program that can mimic human conversation. Many fashion brands are using chatbots to provide customer service and answer product questions. For example, Sephora has a chatbot on its website that helps shoppers find the right makeup products for their skin type. We can expect chatbots to become even more common in the fashion industry.
6. Wearable Technology
Wearable technology is any technology that one can wear on the body. It includes everything from smartwatches to fitness trackers to virtual reality headsets. In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of wearable tech, especially among millennials. Many fashion brands are now incorporating wearable tech into their products. For example, Ralph Lauren’s PoloTech shirt has built-in sensors that track heart rate and breathing. As wearable tech becomes more advanced, we will likely see more fashion brands incorporating it into their designs.
7. Blockchain
Blockchain is a decentralized database that allows for secure online transactions. It is the technology behind cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. In the fashion industry, blockchain can verify the authenticity of products and track the supply chain. As more fashion brands begin to adopt blockchain, we will likely see increased transparency and security throughout the industry.
8. Big Data
Big data is a term used to describe large datasets that can be difficult to process using traditional methods. Big data helps track consumer behavior and future forecast trends in the fashion industry. For example, retailers can use big data to track which items sell well and which items buyers often return. By understanding consumer behavior, retailers can better decide what products to sell and how to price them.
9. AI-Powered Shopping
AI-powered Shopping is a type of online Shopping that uses artificial intelligence to recommend products to users. AI-powered Shopping helps retailers personalize the shopping experience for each customer and make better product recommendations. As AI-powered Shopping becomes more common, even more retailers use it to provide a better customer experience.
Conclusion
Several different technologies are reshaping the fashion industry. They are changing how fashion brands operate and interact with their customers. We can expect to see even more innovation in the fashion industry as brands continue to adopt new technologies.