FORECASTING FASHTECH: Major reports on 2025's trends and threats

Welcome to the 27th Edition of Fashion 4.X! In this issue, we're diving into the forces shaping fashion’s future. With fresh insights from key reports and the latest innovations, we’ll explore how brands are navigating today’s challenges with strategic pivots, sustainability initiatives, and boundary-pushing technologies. As fashion reinvents itself yet again, join us in exploring what’s next for the industry’s tech-forward evolution.

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Two major reports have just been released, giving us a glimpse into fashion’s wild ride ahead. The latest from 麦肯锡 's State of Fashion 2025 paints a picture of strategic shifts on the horizon. With sluggish growth and evolving consumer expectations, brands are turning to new value strategies and markets. Non-luxury segments are primed for growth, while resale and off-price markets are rising as consumers look for both quality and value. In response, brands are diversifying supply chains, especially across Asia, and leaning into AI for smarter inventory management and a more engaging in-store experience.

Meanwhile, Fashion & Technology in 2025 by The Interline and MMGNET Group highlights the critical role of technology in meeting industry demands. With 94% of professionals see tech as essential for the future, advancements like AI, AR, and VR are at the forefront of strategy, enabling efficiency, deeper customer engagement, and sustainable operations. However, a tech gap remains: only 40% believe current platforms fully meet industry needs. Did someone say "opportunity"? As brands focus on leveraging data for demand forecasting and smarter inventory, it’s clear that innovation and resilience will be key for 2025.

?? Fleek raises $20M to expand the reach of second-hand wholesale fashion, helping to give clothes a second life.

?? Hemster's strategic shift into garment repairs brings a 10x revenue boost—and a new sustainability model for retailers.

?? A new dye tech startup tackles fashion's water crisis, using nearly zero water to color fabrics.

?? Social Studies launches with sustainability scorecards to help shoppers make more eco-friendly choices.

?? Bangladesh puts a spotlight on sustainability in textiles, showcasing eco-innovations on the global stage.

?? At Boston Fashion Week, designer Ganit Goldstein unveiled her "Interactive Fashion" collection, blending technology and style to create dynamic, responsive garments.

?? Levi’s launches a voice-powered fit guide with 亚马逊 Alexa, making it easier than ever to find the perfect fit from home.

?? CLO Virtual Fashion Inc. launches its Ecosystem Partnership Program, partnering with nine companies to connect 3D designs better to manufacturing software.

???? India’s Textile Minister advocates for AI and blockchain in fashion education, aiming to future-proof the next generation.

MSCHF causes mischief with the global supply chain! With their latest stunt, they challenge conventional manufacturing norms with a mix of humor and disruption.

Follow these folks to see their POV and happenings in their corner of the fashion world:

Imran Amed , Founder, CEO, and Editor-in-Chief of The Business of Fashion

Marc Bain , Senior Technology Correspondent at The Business of Fashion

Anita B. , Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company.

Brian Baskin , Executive Editor at The Business of Fashion.

Hannah Crump , Director of BoF Insights at The Business of Fashion.

Allison Lee , Founder & CEO, (Re)vive

Mehul Trivedi , SVP Wearables, EssilorLuxottica

Rahul Malik , Chief Growth Officer, Business of Fashion

Yuliya Raquel , Co-Founder, PatternFast

About Balodana: we are "fashtechies" who are passionate about revolutionizing the fashion industry's impact on the environment. Talk with us about our new Custom Fashion Lab on-demand manufacturing and personalized supply chain solutions, to reshape sustainability and sizing inclusion in fashion.

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