My article ‘The Role of Open AI in Fashion: Transforming Creativity Through Innovation?’ (O’Connell 2024) has just been published. The article was inspired my own research for an AI and fashion committee I was on recently at Seneca Polytechnic. My work on the academic committee to explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in fashion education was a dynamic and collaborative endeavour undertaken during May-June 2024. The committee, comprised of faculty members, Seneca School of Fashion (SoF) staff, and technology specialists, met weekly to discuss the various implications and opportunities that AI presents for visual presentation and design within the fashion curriculum. These discussions were thorough and multifaceted, addressing both the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating AI tools and methodologies in fashion education.
Throughout our meetings, we focused on several key areas where AI could significantly enhance the learning experience and professional preparation of our students. We explored the use of AI in trend analysis, predictive modelling for fashion design, and the creation of virtual prototypes. Additionally, we examined how AI-driven tools could be used to personalize learning experiences, offering tailored feedback and support to students based on their individual progress and needs. We also generated potential AI assignments that could be used within the School of Fashion.
Fashion faculties are increasingly recognizing the profound implications of emerging technologies, particularly AI, for both the industry and educational practices. At Seneca Polytechnic, a significant step was taken towards addressing these challenges and opportunities through the formation of our AI Committee within the School of Fashion. This committee was established with the explicit purpose of exploring the potential applications of artificial intelligence in fashion education and industry practices. By creating a dedicated forum for discussion and innovation, Seneca Polytechnic is proactively engaging with the transformative impact of AI on the fashion sector, ensuring that our curriculum and pedagogical strategies remain at the forefront of technological advancements. The establishment of such committees is essential in fostering a forward-thinking approach that aligns educational outcomes with the rapidly evolving demands of the fashion industry, ultimately preparing students to excel in a digital and AI-driven world.
The full article can be read here:
Figure 1. Carrie Crigler, Salient, AI Fashion Week Season 2. (Photo Credit: AI Fashion Week, https://fashionweek.ai/)
Figure 2. Carrie Crigler, Salient, AI Fashion Week Season 2. (Photo Credit: AI Fashion Week, https://fashionweek.ai/)
Figure 3. Wildy Martinez, VANGRD, AI Fashion Week Season 2. (Photo Credit: AI Fashion Week, https://fashionweek.ai/)
This research will be part of my forthcoming book: Stitching a Digital Age: The Convergence of Style and Technology (2025):
markoconnellstudio 