On Tuesday, February 25th, the Consumer, Apparel, and Retail Studies department spent the day learning about Generative AI and exploring what this multi-faceted technology means for the future of the fashion industry.
Department Head, Dr. Nancy Hodges began the day by welcoming AI Brand Strategist, Deanna Leonard, to the EUC Cone Ballroom to present, Tech Couture: How AI is Shaping the Next Era of Fashion, to approximately 100 students and faculty.
Deanna holds an MBA and is a speaker and author with over 20 years of leadership experience. She is an award-winning designer and was recently named one of LinkedIn’s Top 100 AI Creatives.
In her presentation, Deanna focused on how AI is transforming disciplines of fashion such as branding, trend forecasting, supply chain management, and product development. She also shared a plethora of AI-powered design tools that students can use for experimentation and leverage in their future careers.
Deanna’s presentation opened my eyes to so many additional programs and uses for generative AI in both business and design, said CARS faculty member, Dr. Trish Kemerly. AI use is already a reality in many apparel and retail businesses, so we have a responsibility to prepare students to utilize the tools of the trade.
The conversation continued that evening at the 2nd Annual CARS Alumni Network event at the Colonnade at Revolution Mill.
After CARS alumni, faculty, and Industry Advisory Board members enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and reconnecting with one another, Deanna presented, Artificial Intelligence Meets the Runway: Redefining Fashion’s Future.
She discussed the prominence of AI in top brands such as Coach, H&M and Zara and how AI has been strategically implemented to enhance efficiency and profitability within their companies. Additionally, Deanna highlighted how AI is transforming the shopping experience for consumers worldwide through AI-powered tools targeting customer service, personalized styling, and more!
The evening concluded with a raffle, where guests won a range of name brand items such as a Wrangler/Pendleton Rodeo Blanket, Tommy Hilfiger Lockwood Collection Suitcase and a Wrangler X Lainey Wilson Sunburst Aztec Coat generously donated by CARS Industry Advisory Board members.
Following the event, Deanna stated, The creativity and dedication and innovation in the room was outstanding. UNCG CARS – hats off to you as you are growing a team of experts that are going to change the face of fashion. (And already are!) Thanks for having me be a part of it!
CARS would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Deanna for providing valuable insights into AI to CARS students, faculty, and alumni. We look forward to seeing how they use them to harness the technology at UNCG and beyond!
We would also like to thank the CARS Industry Advisory Board for sponsoring the Alumni Network event.
Story Written by Lily Kamiab, CARS Department
