Dassault's FashionLab produces technology-driven style
Earlier this month, The Upcoming highlighted the the applications of computer-aided design (CAD) on the jewelry industry. According to the report, jewelers can now use CAD to experiment with jewelry designs, viewing options regarding materials, shapes and colors with a few clicks of their mice.
However, jewelry is not the only luxury good that 3D CAD technology is helping to advance. As Fashion Freak reported, FashionLab recently revealed its latest clothing designs, produced in partnership with Dassault Systemes.
Technological design
According to Fashion Freak, FashionLab presented the initial results of its collaboration with designer Julien Fournie at the Spring-Summer 2012 Couture Fashion Week. Called "First Ecstasy," this show featured creations designed with 3D software.
The news source noted that FashionLab is a technology incubator, dedicated to united fashion designers and design studios with advanced technology. By using Dassault Systemes' 3D software, designers can create virtual prototypes of their designs. Once rendered in 3D, the designers can then visualize how the clothing would appear and play with potential alterations. Designers can build drapings, add embroideries and experiment with other add-ons.
Additionally, the software helps the fashion designers better estimate the amount of fabric and other materials necessary to create a given piece.
Fashion of all types
High end designers are not alone in their use of advanced 3D software. Many consumer clothing manufacturers also utilize the technology, including Wolverine Worldwide Inc. Wolverine, which is perhaps best known for Hush Puppies shoes, uses SolidWorks CAD software to shorten its design cycle by 60 percent and reduce material usage and development costs each by 50 percent.
Additionally, the technology allowed Wolverine to expand its product line by 200 percent.