When people first started hearing about virtual reality many years ago, it seemed impossible to even imagine the impact it would have on the world. However, as technology has advanced, we’ve seen incredible ways in which virtual reality can be used. One of my main interests in VR lies in the world of fashion. After all, virtual reality fashion growth opportunities are endless.
What was once considered “science fiction”, VR now dominates a huge part of the tech industry. There are, of course, still skeptics out there. Yet once people have the opportunity to engage in a VR experience, that can all change. Take me for example. I used to think that VR was dumb, nerdy and not something I would ever want to participate in. And now I have my own VR fashion blog!
Since I started VR in Vera Wang, I’ve already noticed virtual reality fashion growth happening all over the world.
In the past, fashion brands have tapped into emerging markets to stay current and remain innovative. So, why should it be any different with VR?
A lot of people that I meet—and even my own friends—have this major misconception of what virtual reality is and how it can be used. It still has a very “geeky” label attached to it. (Which I’m working to shift into geek chic.) Yet, we’re only at the tip of the virtual reality fashion growth iceberg.
For a lot of fashion brands, virtual reality offers a new way to interact and engage with customers and collections alike. Look at Canadian designer Sid Neigum for instance. Last year, he presented a physical collection at RE\SET fashion week and then had a virtual reality installation to view the clothes again, up-close through an HMD (head-mounted display).
After all, when you think about it, virtual reality could prove to be far more important than mobile in the grand scheme of the industry.
Tommy Hilfiger was one of the first brands to adopt a virtual reality experience back in 2015. They invited shoppers into their store to don VR headsets and view their autumn/winter collection through 360° video. Additionally, Coach, Dior, Balenciaga and Topshop have also had their own virtual reality experiences.
However, even though virtual reality fashion growth could be major, not many designers have recently taken advantage of it. First of all, it’s an expensive endeavour, which can deter brands from wanting to commit. Secondly, they aren’t completely convinced that it’s a good investment to make. Furthermore, some skeptics still believe that VR in the fashion world is just a marketing gimmick.
What’s important to remember is that, if you don’t try, you’ll never know. Remember 10 years ago when brands were hesitant to move their business into online shopping? And now look at them! Online shopping racks up billions of dollars each year in Canada. So, even though some people doubt these new technologies, my bets are on virtual reality fashion growth blowing up the market very, very soon.
