The fashion industry uses 3D fashion design to streamline the development process. Here are the top 5 reasons 3D technology is here to stay.
Fashion and the Metaverse
You may have seen some out-of-this-world garments with fashion in the metaverse, but you might not know that digital fashion existed for quite some time before these shared virtual spaces.
Digital fashion, also known as 3D sampling, has been used behind the scenes to develop new garments. The benefits of 3D modelling in fashion include efficiency as well as sustainability.
What is 3D Sampling?
3D sampling in fashion refers to using CAD software capable of virtually sewing and testing 2D sewing patterns before moving on to physical prototyping.
To make a 3D sample, one must first create a 2D pattern; this is different from a 3D illustration which is simply a depiction or a conceptualization. 3D samples created in CAD software offer many benefits and hold more data than just a picture alone.
1. Saves time and money
3D samples help to reduce the number of prototype samples needed to get to a final product and increase the accuracy of the first physical sample. Before 3D samples, fashion brands would cut and sew a product 4 or more times to test fit and function.
There are many reasons why testing various rounds is necessary - mainly due to changes in the pattern or changes in the type of fabric.
Ultimately, adding 3D prototypes along the way is more efficient as it's less labor-intensive and doesn't require physical fabric.
Many prototype samples go to waste because some companies will shred them to prevent the use of that product's iteration.
2. Accurate 3D samples reduce waste
Sampling in 3D is highly accurate and a great way to catch errors in the sizing of the garments as well as details such as the placement, size, and color of graphics, prints, logos, and trims.
The accuracy of the 3D sample is a direct result of the combination of the 2D CAD pattern, the 3D fabric that the pattern is simulated with, and the virtual 3D avatar.
2D CAD Pattern
Since a 3D sample is simulated from a 2D sewing pattern, it holds the information needed to manufacture a garment such as the dimensions, what fabrics are included, the various sizes, and much more.
3D Fabric Properties
The fabric properties used to simulate the 3D samples can have various levels of stretchability, weight, bend, etc. Using a 3D fabric with properties close to the intended final product is essential.
Virtual 3D Avatar
Testing in 3D can reduce waste by catching errors in sizing. Knowing the dimensions of the wearer's body is critical for accurate 3D samples.
3. Gets you to market faster
3D renders are becoming more hyper-realistic thanks to companies like Clo3D, Optitex, and Tuka3D.
High-quality renders can provide a view of the garment from all angles, as well as turntable and animated videos. This helps reduce the time and cost of photoshoots, marketing, and sales.
4. Allows for effortless collaboration
3D technology helps fashion companies manage their assets digitally, making it easier for teams to review and collaborate globally - which came in handy when the pandemic caused many companies to work from home.
Body scanning can help create the perfect avatar for a customer and teams can review styles from every angle before placing an order with a factory overseas.
5. Gives you control
With the help of 3D virtual samples, you can test garments by implementing best practices with accurate 3D sampling. This provides fashion designers with a tool for instant feedback on the changes being made.
No more waiting weeks or months for samples to come back from overseas only to see the problem is still there.
Overall, 3D technology is being implemented in fashion in various ways to improve design, production, and sustainability.
About the author:
Ellie Wilcox is the founder and CEO of Digitech Design which helps entrepreneurs with apparel design and development. Providing services in 3D renderings created in Clo3D based on cad patterns and sewn prototypes. Ellie started working in fashion and production in 2011 and has implemented 3D samples since 2016. Using 3D reduces the number of physical prototypes to get to market and lessens the fashion industry's carbon footprint.