The adoption of 3D design technology and simulation technology will change fashion forever. As has the number of 3D-tools used by brands, so too has their competition. However, investing in technology does not translate into cost savings or improved performance. This is especially true if we keep working by traditional methods, such as physical sampling and prototyping. The digitization of fabrics at the fabric mill could unlock new levels of speed and cost savings, as well as open up new opportunities for design, development, and retail. Continue reading to learn more.
The fashion industry is not the only one that is undergoing digitalization. Suppliers are now racing to help brands and turn digitalization to their benefit. The digitalization of the supply chain has the potential to change the game for companies. But are these companies actually able to save money or increase their performance through digitalization?
Digital projects have been a huge success for both brands and suppliers in the denim industry for over ten years. However, this is only true if done right. We are rapidly approaching mass adoption of technology that will forever transform the fashion industry. The critical difference between success and failure is more apparent than ever.
3D design and simulation technologies are the focus of all attention. Companies can save time, money, and resources by using digital products to model designs and processes. Large parts of the physical sample of fabrics, clothes, and laundry are being replaced with digital twins, 3D tools, and data. This allows them to make better decisions about what they will put on the shop floor.
The fashion 3D CAD (computer-aided design) market has seen increased competition in recent years. As brands choose which 3D tools they will use, suppliers must keep up with the rapidly changing workflows and standards required to serve their customers. The importance of communication and collaboration with suppliers has been highlighted by recent challenges in logistics and supply chain management. To deliver the final product to the customer, it takes cooperation across the entire supply chain. Low prices are not the only thing. Digital tools in 3D require us to split the responsibilities so that suppliers can take control of digitalization. This will allow us to collectively improve the system.
It takes quite a bit of back and forth sampling before a product can be placed in a shop. What if digital sampling was possible? This would allow designers to have instant access to digital copies of real-world materials so they can simulate the different designs. It’s not common for building architects to test their designs on the construction site. So why do we need to do so much of this in the fashion industry. Are physical samples limiting the industry’s ability to reduce costs, speed up production, and have more creative freedom?
Leading fabric mills all over the globe have learned how to move ahead. The revolutionary 3D fabric digitization technology by INDIKON from Bandicoot Imaging Sciences is specifically designed for denim fabrics. It allows any fabric mill, garment vendor, or brand to digitize materials for 3D anywhere with a regular DSLR camera, access to the internet, and a regular laptop. Digital fabrics will soon be available on-demand and ready to use right from the source. PBR texture maps, as well as physical data, are packaged in ready-to-use with any 3D fashionCAD.
Although suppliers are already 3D-ready, brands now have to decide on their 3D technology stack and train and support design teams to work in 3D. They can also source digital materials directly from the mill. For more information on how suppliers can become 3D-ready in less than an hour and where you can find suppliers who are available to ship digital samples material today, visit INDIKON’s site.
Jorgen Sevild gave a public master’s talk at the Hong Kong Design Institute this month. For more information on digital fabrics and future fashion, see the video below.
