More
Purpose/Impact
An extension of FIT’s Innovation Center and a first-of-its-kind initiative in higher education, DTech fosters innovation by practice, facilitating the exploration of business and creativity through emerging technology and real-world experience. This and future events in the DTech Live series provide FIT’s emerging designers with the exclusive opportunity to leverage the same new technology that is driving innovation for some of the world’s leading luxury fashion and beauty brands, thereby expanding the audience for their designs.
This unprecedented partnership benefits the next generation of fashion design talent, with a dynamic live show that creates a meaningful connection between the audience and designers, and provides insights for the industry across the entire design, development, and sales chain.
Outcomes/Accomplishments
During the 7Collections presentation, the audience viewed garments shown in engaging videos; watched one-on-one conversations with the designers and Valerie Steele, engaged in a live chat, and had the opportunity to purchase made-to-order items from these emerging designers. The alumni discussed their inspiration, what comes next in their careers, and how they were influenced by their diverse backgrounds and geographies. Items available for purchase included head-to-toe looks as well as dresses, coats, and accessories. All proceeds from sales went directly to the designers who had full oversight of garment customization and fulfillment.
STATUS UPDATE
The designers featured in 7Collections developed critical career skills through a learning environment that models professional practice and closely connects students to industry. This inaugural DTech Live event is the first in a series, bringing together students, faculty, and industry partners to experiment and solve real-world problems at the intersection of creativity, commerce, and technology. The next project is slated for fall 2021.
