By The Code

Is artificial intelligence in fashion a threat to designers and artists? Let Filipino designers Renan Pacson and Patrick Cabral share their perspectives on AI’s role in the local fashion scene and beyond

- MARIAN SAN PEDRO

Onward and forward-technological advancement is propelling industries to greater heights, including that of fashion. With artificial intelligence (AI) as one of the leading innovations today, is fashion being revolutionized for the better? 

Among the brilliant local designers who are exploring AI is Renan Pacson. He defines his design ideology as a constant state of flux-simply because perfection is boring. His journey with AI started during the Manila Fashion Festival in 2021, when he was tasked to present a digital collection using a 3D-based software.

"At first, it could seem daunting and alienating as one would think AI could take over the traditional way of creating clothes," Pacson says. "But once you have actually utilized it, you will realize that it is a helpful tool that could push one's creativity further. There are many things in the industry that cannot be replaced by AI."

Similarly, designer Patrick Cabral's curiosity on AI was piqued by its potential to revolutionize the creative industry, more specifically, the fashion domain. He was eager to explore the possibilities of what AI could bring to the table and how it might impact the future of fashion.