Since we are on the theme of fashion this month, how about a look into a basic maths concept that has been making waves in fashion recently!?
3D modelling is simply using a specialised computer software to create a representation of an object which can be fully animated. These models can be physically created using a 3D printer.
Some of its more known applications are in medicine, computer games, movies, to name a few examples. If you studied STEM or related subjects, you may have had a close-up view into some of its applications in CAD (Computer Aided Design) , construction design etc.
Although 3D modelling is not new to fashion, recently, it played a vital role in what will be marked as one of the top trending topics of the fashion industry this year. In May, Congolese Designer and Fashion Label Hanifa launched a new collection via a 3D fashion show that was streamed live on Instagram. Welcomed with a resounding applause both from fashion enthusiasts and the wider social media community, it's certainly set the pace for the future of fashion! If you are yet to see it, here's a sneak peek below
Hanifa's innovative display of its new designs despite the lockdown is proof of how the Fashion Industry and many other industries are leveraging on technological advances to adapt to the ever changing times. These changes also indicate a stronger integration of STEM into fashion, meaning more opportunities will open up for individuals with STEM skills to diversify into. This is particularly promising as we experience a decline in some of the traditional industries e.g. Oil & Gas, Automobiles to name a few examples.
If you're interested in building a career in fashion, below are some areas in which STEM skills are in great demand (Some of these were touched on in the interview with Takita Bartlett):
Sustainability - The Fashion Industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental pollution, placing an urgent demand on the industry to develop and employ more sustainable manufacturing methods. Science and Technology are being actively sought out to effect these changes. The companies below are a few practical and innovative examples of sustainable manufacturing:
Evrnu - Textiles Innovation Company
Bionic Yarn - Uses recovered marine plastic to make clothing pieces
DyeCoo - Uses water-free and process-chemical free dyeing technology for textiles
Material Science - This plays a crucial role in the discovery of innovative fabrics to meet the ever evolving demands of consumers. Fabrics are becoming more versatile and an increasing trend seen in the use of wearable tech and functional fabrics. Material Science expertise has a huge potential to support the development of these creative solution thus presenting opportunities for individuals passionate about research in Science and Fashion. Earlier this year, £1.2M was awarded to 10 of the UK’s fashion most innovative and sustainable brands, the list includes the Materials Science Departments of Loughborough University and Queen Mary University of London.
Data Science - The ability to gain insight into data and predict trends is as important to Fashion as it is to any other industry. You may come across these roles as fashion analyst, growth analyst etc. If you have a flair for numbers & statistics and want to work in an industry like fashion, the opportunities are quite vast!
If you enjoyed this article and would like to find out more about STEM careers in fashion, below are a few useful links :
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