Russian Regions Are Building Digital Fashion Collections
Experts say the new approach amounts to an industrial revolution.
Digital technologies are reshaping fashion in Russia. New collections are now being created using 3D modeling, artificial intelligence suggests design ideas, and virtual reality helps cut costs on fabrics and labor. Ivanovo State Polytechnic University has even launched a dedicated “digital fashion” track, according to the Ivanovskaya Gazeta.
As associate professor Natalia Sakharova of the Department of Garment Design explains, this new industrial revolution began as early as 2020, when designers, patternmakers, and buyers started establishing online data exchange. Today, the department uses 3D prototyping technologies and applies artificial intelligence. AI analyzes body measurements, evaluates pattern designs, and monitors market trends.
Digital Runways
Digital tools significantly reduce the cost of creating “test” samples. According to Sakharova, designers can now assess demand for a digital clothing prototype before launching physical production.
For creative work, this also opens up far broader possibilities, as there are no physical constraints. Digital fashion competitions are already being held, where participants’ designs are fitted onto avatars and showcased in virtual runway shows. This trend also carries a global mission: reducing overconsumption.
