The rising concerns about fair wages, pollution, as well as hyper-connected consumers… All of these are paving a way for new technologies. It is clear that we live in the ‘insta-age’ of technology. Social media is changing how fashion is consumed and has trained customers to want instant access to the latest trends, as soon as they hit the catwalks. At the same time, younger generations, who want to stand out from the crowd, seek products that can be tailored to their needs and preferences. Moreover, ‘mass-made’ clothing or ‘fast-fashion’, seems to be gradually losing its appeal.

As customers’ real lives become increasingly intertwined with the digital world, many designers and brands must embrace the latest technologies to push the limits of manufacturing, production, marketing, and wearability. From the latest in artificial intelligence to the boom of mobile commerce, 3D printing, and blockchain, we’ve rounded some of the top tech advancements being used in fashion today.

• Artificial intelligence

Now, more than ever, brands have been using AI to enhance customers’ shopping experience, analyze data, boost sales, forecast trends and offer inventory-related guidance. The technology behind AI includes algorithms that track customers’ journeys to match them with the right products. Also with the help of 5G, this technology helps streaming media formats with high-definition graphics. Now, customers can “try on designs” before making their purchases. Some brands, such as Tommy Hilfiger and Gucci, are offering digital showrooms to gauge the market’s appetite.

• New Fabrics

Novel fabrics are arguably the future of fashion, as another way in which designers can set themselves apart and appeal as a sustainable option.

All the facts point to the idea that eco-leather is not a very sustainable option. Startups like Modern Meadow are combating this by creating lab-grown leather without harming animals. Likewise, companies like Bolt Threads and EntoGenetics are innovating super-strong spider silk. These new fabrics are reshaping the garments we wear each day. Look out for novel fabrics popping up in boutiques across the globe, as there seems to be no slowing down in this technological trend.

• Mobile commerce

Mobile technology is getting more advanced every day. From Insta shopping to smart wallets, mobile commerce is the ultimate tech tool. It has not only impacted our everyday lives, but it has become one of the fastest-growing sectors in eCommerce. These mobile sales sites have revolutionized the online sales industry, demonstrating how mobile commerce is innovating every aspect of the fashion industry.

• Blockchain

Blockchain is mostly used as a record-keeping technology behind bitcoin and digital currency. “Blocks” on the blockchain are made up of digital pieces of data that store information about transactions like the date, time, and dollar amount of your most recent purchase, as well as who is participating in the transactions.

This technology has been taken advantage of by TextileGenesis, which uses the technology to keep a record of every stage of production. They say this will help to keep their supply chain more transparent, as well as encourage a wider push towards sustainability.

Each time a product moves in the supply chain it’s recorded on the blockchain. This can prevent counterfeiting as goods that are missing the physical-digital link will be obvious fakes.