The fusion of digital technology with fashion holds tremendous potential for revolutionising the industry especially the plus size fashion in several ways, especially in terms of sustainability and inclusivity. Here’s a breakdown of how digital software can be creatively utilised to advance sustainable fashion businesses:
1.Choose or create the right avatar. You can create your own avatar or opt for a professional digital avatar you can use over and over again. We strongly recommend Alvanon. When addressing the plus size fashion market you need to pay attention the details. You have the flexibility to select from a wide array of existing avatars, catering to various sizing needs across EU, Asian, and American fits for women, men, and children. Additionally, if desired, you have the option to acquire both physical and virtual avatars. Moreover, customization is available, allowing you to tailor avatars to your preferred measurements or utilize the measurements of your current human fit model. While the investment required may be significant, it undoubtedly proves to be worthwhile in ensuring the creation of impeccably fitting garments that resonate with your customers.
2.Create your design in a few different sizes. You can begin your process by doing this virtually with the help of Clo 3D and Browzwear the main software used by major brands (there are also Style 3D catching up and Shima Seiki for knitwear). This means customers from the plus size fashion market can “see” themselves wearing the clothes you’re making.
I would like to mention these are not your “regular” avatars you can use by default on each software. These Alvanon avatar represent the digital twin of a dress form that exists in physical form.
Since the average American woman is a size 16-18, it’s difficult to envision yourself in clothes when the model wearing them is a size 0. 3D visualisation can accurate show how each size will look like in physical form. Plus size fashion is undeniable the most neglected segment in terms of fit in most retail stores.
3. Take into consideration Petite and Petite Plus size as well as Tall and Tall plus size and how your design will look. When we look at the plus size fashion market, there are plenty of customers into the petite section that constantly need to alter their garments. If the above sizes are your niche, I would highly suggest analysing the lengths and shape of your designs. This will have a massive impact in reducing the potential returns of your clothes after purchase.
4. Build digital garments that translate into real clothes. Developing digital garments especially for the plus size fashion consumer has definitely reduced the number of samples made with this method. Even more, using the right avatar such as Alvanon with the correct fit will positively impact your costs in the long run. You will be able to optimise your process to the extent that you might be able to create just virtual fit and have only one 1 to 2 samples before production starts.
5.Design with your plus size fashion customer in mind. Decide what is your brand’s vision and what problem can you solve when you start the design process.In addition, what makes a garment great has to do a lot with the fabrics you use. Think smart fabrics such as Toray. Brands such as MOS have used highly functional fabrics to complement the functionality of their design and bring the promise that the clothes are made for movement.
Here is an example of a size inclusive dress idea:
Check out the digital fashion dress created below to complement the plus size fashion consumer.
