In the past few years, the fashion world has made strides in respect for inclusivity, and one of the most exciting avenues of change can be found in the realm of plus-size clothing. That change is taking place due to multiple factors, including societal progress, increased demand from consumers, and – most notably – technology.
A brief overview
ASOS is a Leader in 3D Technology with body-molding
The UK-based fashion retailer ASOS is one of the leaders in 3D modeling technology used for better representation of a variety of body types. Each time a customer visits the site and makes a purchase, they are provided a view through virtual models of all different sizes, which include plus-size bodies, to view clothing. This allows customers to visualize how and if the clothing will fit on a different shape. In turn, this makes not only a more accurate fit but also provides an inclusive approach and personalized shopping experience.
ASOS has also incorporated smart systems/AI-driven product recommendation algorithms, which provide customers with suggested clothing for their profile, including size, making the clothing even more tailored to that individual. These advances in technology for plus-size clothing build on fashion retail’s commitment to making fashion accessible to all body types.
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Around the World: Voices of Technology for Inclusion
The use of tech in plus-size fashion also has further reach than consumers and retailers. For example, in the U.S., Shailyn Croom (entrepreneur and recent Miss Plus America) and her organization, EntreprenHER, which seeks to empower women of all body types to become entrepreneurs. While they don’t specifically focus on fashion as a whole, her advocacy shows how tech can expand inclusion and empowerment to many industries, including fashion.
Another inspiring related voice is Keia Bounds, a celebrated costume designer who is recognized for designing authentic and body-positive styles in the television industry. Her applied work behind the scenes in the entertainment industry is in contrast to the technology to the retail progress we see, both promoting a united front for body representation and diversity on stage and in store.
The Way Forward: Advances and Intentionality
While those indicators are encouraging, it is clear that much more work is yet to be done as it concerns moving towards true inclusivity. Fashion designers, retailers, and trendsetters need to continue using technology in meaningful ways to design clothing for larger bodies, market with a more authentic sense of representation and diversity, and depict in real time, etc.
As it applies to fashion, tech can revolutionize the experience of the plus-size fashion world from the inside out by however many new size tools being a part of the experience, analytics/insights into a customer market that has continued to be ignored, or AI recommendations that enable fashion personalization based on body diversity.
Conclusion
Tech has quickly become more than a tool for fulfilling contracts, coming up with a marketing campaign for more business, or to save time – it is the key to recognizing and transforming our commitment to change. Using 3D modeling, machine learning, and inclusive approaches to design, retailers are now able to meet their demands of a larger audience. Preserving this momentum to keep innovating, I anticipate discussing more dynamic, body-inclusive, and creative solutions that fashion will present.
