How the Fashion Industry is Misusing Innovation

There is no denying that the fashion industry has undergone a significant transformation due to technological advancements. Because of these advancements, the industry has been slowly benefiting from technology-focused solutions such as intelligent fabric designs and manufacturing processes that address problems like overproduction and the depletion of natural resources. However, there is another side to the coin.

The fashion industry has been accused of not always using technology responsibly and ethically, which raises concerns about the impact of technology on the industry. In addition, concerns have been raised about certain fashion brands using technology to give the impression of being environmentally sustainable without implementing significant changes to their practices. This often results in accusations of greenwashing.

Here are examples of instances when the fashion industry has misused technology:

1. Fast fashion: The rise of fast fashion has been fuelled by technology, with retailers using data analytics and automation to speed up production. This has led to a culture of disposable clothing and overconsumption, which is environmentally unsustainable.
2. Digital manipulation of models: The use of digital technology to manipulate the appearance of models has been controversial. Photoshop is commonly used to alter the shape and size of models, creating an unrealistic standard of beauty that can harm women's self-esteem and body image.
3. Biometric data collection: Some fashion brands use biometric data to gather information about customers, such as their height, weight, and body shape. This data is then used to create personalized marketing campaigns, but it raises concerns about privacy and data security.
4. Intellectual property theft: Technology has made it easier for fashion brands to copy designs and intellectual property from smaller designers and independent artists. This has led to a proliferation of cheap knock-offs, which harms the original creators and undermines the integrity of the fashion industry.
5. Worker surveillance: Some companies use technology to monitor workers in real-time, such as tracking their movements and productivity. This can lead to increased pressure and stress on workers and privacy concerns.
6. Discrimination in hiring: Some companies use artificial intelligence to screen job applicants, which can lead to discrimination against certain groups. For example, if the algorithm is trained on partial data, it may discriminate against women or people of colour.
7. Greenwashing: Some companies use technology to create the appearance of environmental sustainability without making meaningful changes to their practices. For example, a company may use recycled materials in its products but still rely on unsustainable manufacturing processes.

So should we hold the fashion industry accountable when it misuses new technologies? Yes we should. We can do this by supporting consumer activism, government regulation, and industry standards developed to promote best practices.

Also, the Fashion Innovation Center has the potential to be a powerful force for change in the fashion industry, because they promote the adoption of new technologies in a way that is ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible. By encouraging collaboration, innovation, and education, The Fashion Innovation Center is equipped to help the industry move away from misusing new technology and towards a more sustainable and responsible future.