Here are some ways that AI can be used in the fashion industry.
- Manufacturing
During manufacturing any product, the time taken is often more crucial than the product itself. For instance, rushing to fill an order or hitting a daily quota may affect the quality of the product. When employees are rushed to work on something, they are likely to make mistakes that can mess up a product. AI solves this problem by helping in areas like stitching fabric or by ensuring the colours of the design match the fabric and make everything perfect. AI will do things people initially viewed as difficult and perfect and does it with accuracy and speed that humans can only dream of performing. Furthermore, AI makes manufacturing cost-effective and will do the job better than the entire room of workers.
- Design
Many brands are implementing artificial intelligence (AI) into their design processes to help collect data about the customers and what best suits them. AI helps customers choose clothes based on the fabric, colours and preferred style. Unlike humans, who are likely to propose clothes to customers based on their liking, AI has no favourite. They only choose what suits the customers better. They help customers design what they have in their minds. This is changing how the fashion industry designs its products as it gives customers exactly what they want.
- Merchandizing
AI has made virtual reality successful in buying products online and in-store. Anyone who wants to buy specific clothing or shoe can chat with an AI assistant and find what they need. With the advanced chatbots through apps on company websites, customers can get the help they need and receive help when they need it.
- Inventory
The adoption of AI is changing how stores manage their inventories. This area has always been overlooked, leading to loss of profits and customer dissatisfaction. With Artificial Intelligence, brands can now calculate fashion trends through insights gathered from the market and get the upper hand by suggesting certain products to be brought at the right time. They can also look for the most fashionable pieces for the season and recommend the right course of action.
- In-store enhancement
Smart mirrors are becoming a thing for fashion brands. They are using it to enhance the user experience by allowing customers to look in the mirror and virtually try different clothes and shoes without going to dressing rooms. The mirror allows customers to compare multiple garments side-by-side and change the colours to see the shade that suits their skin tone, body shape and the outfit that matches them better generally.
Generally, although the fashion industry has lagged in adopting technology for years, it is clear that AI is a technology that will positively affect the industry. While some think that AI will be the end of the fashion industry as we know it today, all signs point to better days for brands and customers.