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Appreciation, not Appropriation: Cultural Inclusivity in the Spotlight — Business Today Online Journal

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The concept of inclusivity in the world of fashion is one that is constantly being refined. While companies and brands take steps to create a truly diverse atmosphere, they also must be aware of the fine line that is cultural appropriation, and the way that they are able to maneuver around these iss

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Meet Six South Asian Designers Challenging Stereotypes by Returning to Their Roots

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There has been a burgeoning movement among South Asian designers who challenge Western perceptions of South Asia’s position within the fashion landscape.

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Meet Six South Asian Designers Challenging Stereotypes by Returning to Their Roots

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There has been a burgeoning movement among South Asian designers who challenge Western perceptions of South Asia’s position within the fashion landscape.

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Chief Marketing Officer at Launchmetrics, a leading Brand Performance Cloud in Fashion, Luxury and Beauty.
The fashion industry is known for its ability to implement trends that have the power to shape society and affect the buying habits of consumers at large. But what is, at times, forgotten is the impact everyday consumers have on the industry. The truth is that the industry is largely dictated by consumer demand, and right now the demand for sustainable practices appears to be high. In a survey conducted by McKinsey during the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, "67 percent [of respondents] consider the use of sustainable materials to be an important purchasing factor, and 63 percent consider a brand's promotion of sustainability in the same way." Thus, consumers could push the fashion industry to reckon with its impact on our environment.

Not only is the demand for sustainability high, but so is the conversation surrounding the subject. Data provided by Launchmetrics' proprietary algorithm that measures Media Impact Value reveals that the MIV for sustainability grew by 54% during the first semester of 2022 compared to the first semester of 2021, accounting for $2 billion and $1.3 billion in value, respectively. (MIV is a monetary representation my company uses for brand performance.) This data looked into how much conversation "sustainability" generated in the media, as well as how many placements the term generated across sectors. When we compared the growing MIV to the placements that the industry generates, it became clear that consumers are starting to make changes. This shift means brands should reevaluate their operations to project the right brand image. And to achieve this, fashion brands should now look to take more concrete steps to embrace sustainability, a process which goes beyond brand image and campaigns.

Before we look into how the industry is embracing sustainability, we first have to understand what exactly sustainability means in the fashion industry. In this context, sustainability refers to creating and consuming clothes in a "sustained" way that protects the environment and those producing the clothes. Additionally, true sustainability should ensure that the creation process is environmentally and socially sound, from materials to manufacturing all the way to workers' conditions and fair pay. Needless to say, this is a big change for an industry that for years has struggled with wasteful operations and negative environmental consequences. The fashion industry is responsible for the production of up to 10% of the global carbon dioxide output and accounts for one-fifth of the 300 million tons of plastic produced globally each year, according to the United Nations Environment Programme ( via Bloomberg). So naturally, embracing sustainable practices is a challenge for the industry. However, this does not mean that the industry is not open to change; quite the opposite.

During the past few years, the fashion industry has become more conscious of its issues and has started to address the problem. In fact, fashion accounted for $618 million in MIV when it comes to sustainability during the first semester of 2022, according to Launchmetrics' sustainability report, "Making Sense of Sustainability," which was produced in partnership with the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana. (The report analyzed data from multiple platforms between January 2021 and October 2022.) The fashion industry accounted for one-third of the overall sustainability conversations. To me, this indicates how open it is to change.

By taking a closer look at the conversation and consumer demand surrounding sustainability, we can see that there are several areas of focus to these conversations. These areas include awareness, materials and processes. According to respondents to a survey of U.S. consumer attitudes on sustainable shopping by First Insight and the Baker Retailing Center at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania ( via the World Economic Forum), consumers from all generations are willing to spend more on sustainable products now than they were two years ago. And just over a third of respondents said they choose brands demonstrating environmentally sustainable practices or values. Additionally, 28% said they had stopped buying from brands with poor ethical or sustainability values.

To respond to this new demand, brands across the industry have done their best to incorporate sustainable practices into their operations. This is a prime example of what a driving force global awareness truly is when it comes to sustainable development in the fashion industry. Brands that focus on providing true sustainability are likely to see positive results in their communities. One brand that has done particularly well on this front is Levi's, particularly with its campaign "Buy Better, Wear Longer." The global campaign raised awareness and encouraged consumers to be more intentional about their apparel choices while reaffirming Levi's longstanding commitment to making quality clothing that can last for generations. Earlier this year, Levi's also participated in another impactful campaign in collaboration with Gannì. The campaign showed Emma Chamberlain with her friends and featured clothing made with natural dyes, water-saving techniques and other sustainability measures.By having a YouTube star at the center of the campaign, I believe the company appealed to the younger generation about sustainability. Another benefit of using an influencer as the centerpiece of a campaign is the impact their voice can drive in the media. Forty-nine percent of consumers in a 2016 Twitter and Annalect survey said they relied on influencers when looking for product recommendations.

Another example, as Forbes contributor Blake Morgan explains, is Patagonia. The company not only uses sustainable materials in its clothing but also helps customers repair their clothing instead of buying new items. This could encourage customers to wear clothing for a lifetime.

What we could have dismissed as a fleeting trend just a few years ago is proving to be anything but as the sustainability movement continues to drive change in the fashion industry. With this continued development, brands should learn that surface-level actions to appear sustainable are unlikely to work and that in order to stay profitable, they should initiate real change. The good news is that the fashion industry appears to be open to change, and for this to continue, the industry has to take responsibility and there has to be complete transparency from samples to the sales rack. This could benefit both the consumer and the industry long term. As the industry continues to grow, it could provide new sustainability solutions that will fuel this growth.

Forbes Communications Council is an invitation-only community for executives in successful public relations, media strategy, creative and advertising agencies. Do I qualify?

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Council Post: The State Of Sustainability In The Fashion Industry (And What It Means For Brands)

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What could have been dismissed as a fleeting trend just a few years ago is proving to be anything but as the sustainable movement continues to drive change in the fashion industry.

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There's no denying that the fashion industry has been a major contributor to climate change and biodiversity loss-which means the industry's sustainability efforts are critical to our planet's health. In this edition, The Next Normal explores the coming decade in sustainable fashion.

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The Next Normal - The future of fashion: Sustainable brands and 'circular' business models

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There's no denying that the fashion industry has been a major contributor to climate change and biodiversity loss-which means the industry's sustainability efforts are critical to our planet's health. In this edition, The Next Normal explores the coming decade in sustainable fashion.

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Ethnic Wear Market Report 2024 - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunities, and Forecasts, 2019-2029F

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Dublin, Aug. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The

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UK Fashion and Sustainability Market Report 2024 | Mintel Store

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57% of Britons see sustainability as important for fashion. Learn more about the UK sustainable fashion market with Mintel.

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Culture for Sale: Unpacking Consumer Perceptions of Cultural Appropriation

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Abstract. High-profile instances of brands accused of cultural appropriation suggest that even the most prominent brands fail to fully understand the compl

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A Tapestry of Trends: Navigating the Fashion Landscape in 2023″

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In the ever-evolving realm of fashion, 2023 promises to be a year of dynamic shifts and eclectic influences. From sustainable fashion…

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Fashion is a vibrant tapestry woven from threads of diverse cultures and traditions.

WomanWonderFashion's collections draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of the world's cultures, resulting in an array of styles that embrace global influences.
In this blog post, we take you on a journey across continents and explore how different cultures shape our designs. Get ready to be inspired by the global fusion of fashion.
The fusion of cultures is at the heart of WomanWonderFashion's design philosophy. We believe in the beauty of blending diverse elements to create unique, culturally inspired pieces. From textiles to patterns, each element is thoughtfully curated to reflect the essence of a particular culture.
Tip: Incorporate pieces from different cultures into your wardrobe for a one-of-a-kind, eclectic style. Pair a traditional Indian print scarf with a modern dress for an eye-catching look.
Different regions boast their own textile traditions, from delicate silks to sturdy denim. Our collections pay homage to these traditions by incorporating textiles from various parts of the world. Each fabric has a story to tell, and our designs let these stories shine.
Tip: Experiment with fabrics from different cultures in your outfits. For instance, try wearing a kimono-style jacket made of Japanese silk for an elegant and unique layer.
Colors hold cultural significance, and our designs reflect this. From the vibrant hues of India to the subdued tones of Scandinavia, WomanWonderFashion embraces a global color palette. The result is a spectrum of options to suit different tastes and occasions.
Tip: Use colors inspired by a specific culture to evoke a particular mood or theme in your outfit. For example, embrace the vivid colors of Mexico for a lively and energetic look.
Patterns from various cultures add depth and character to our collections. Whether it's the intricate paisleys of the Middle East or the geometric shapes of African textiles, these patterns infuse our designs with a sense of wanderlust.
Tip: Mix and match patterns from different cultures to create a dynamic and visually interesting outfit. Combine a tribal print skirt with a floral blouse for a bold statement.
Our accessories draw inspiration from global traditions, bringing unique stories to your look. Handcrafted jewelry, scarves, and bags tell the tales of craftsmanship from different corners of the world, allowing you to carry a piece of cultural heritage.
Tip: Pair culturally inspired accessories with your outfits to add depth and intrigue. A handwoven bag from Bali can be the perfect complement to a simple summer dress.
Our commitment to sustainability extends to our appreciation for cultural influences. We prioritize ethical sourcing and collaborations with artisans from various regions, ensuring that our designs respect and honor the cultures that inspire them.
Tip: When purchasing fashion items inspired by other cultures, ensure they are ethically sourced and support fair trade practices.

WomanWonderFashion's collections celebrate the diversity and beauty of cultures around the world.

The fusion of global influences in our designs allows us to offer a unique and stylish range of fashion options.
By embracing cultural inspirations in your own style, you can create outfits that are not only visually captivating but also meaningful.

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Global Fashion Fusion: How Cultural Influences Shape WomanWonderFashion's Collections

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WomanWonderFashion's collections draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of the world's cultures, resulting in an array of styles that embrace global influences. In this blog post, we take you on a...

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The retail and apparel fashion industry enters 2026 with a complex and defining landscape of challenges. From mandated sustainability regulations to the scaling of digital transformation, fashion brands must confront a wide range of pain points across their supply chains, production models, innovation strategies, and consumer trust. Economic segmentation of value, the rising cost of cyber-resilience, and amplified demands for inclusivity further complicate the picture. To remain competitive and compliant, companies need to rethink the future of clothing with agility, radical transparency, and integrated, tech-enabled strategies.

Below are the top 10 challenges the fashion industry faces in 2026, along with actionable insights to help brands navigate this pivotal year:

Greenwashing and the need for verifiable sustainability

Supply chain disruptions driven by climate, conflict, and cost

Slowing spending and the shift toward value-driven fashion

Cybersecurity risks in an increasingly digital industry

Diversity, equity, and inclusion gaps

High e-commerce return rates due to sizing and fit issues

Textile waste and pressure for circular production

Innovation barriers in digital transformation

Talent retention and employer brand challenges

Declining consumer trust and transparency expectations

1. Sustainability and greenwashing: A major pain point in the apparel industry

The fashion industry is one of the most polluting sectors, responsible for 8-10% of global carbon emissions and producing 92 million tons of waste annually. Consumers increasingly demand transparency and genuine sustainable practices from brands, not just greenwashed marketing tactics. A survey by McKinsey found that 67% of consumers consider the use of sustainable materials to be an important purchasing factor. Brands that fail to adopt genuine sustainable practices risk losing consumer trust and market share.

Sustainability remains a critical issue as consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions, especially regarding apparel. Brands must go beyond superficial claims and demonstrate real efforts to reduce their carbon footprints. This includes using eco-friendly materials for clothes, adopting circular economy principles, and improving the traceability of their supply chains. Companies like Patagonia and Stella McCartney have set examples by incorporating recycled materials and transparent supply chain practices. However, in 2026, the challenge is shifting from a voluntary effort to a regulatory obligation.

Greenwashing, the practice of making misleading claims about the environmental benefits of a product or service, is now under intense international scrutiny. With tightening regulations, especially in the EU, brands must ensure their sustainability claims are backed by verifiable data. The progressive rollout of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) for textiles, coupled with directives like the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), will intensify this pressure in 2026. These regulations transform transparency from a marketing option into an operational requirement, forcing brands to provide structured, accessible data on their products' origins, composition, and end-of-life options. Implementing third-party certifications and adhering to international standards are no longer just best practices, but critical steps to build credibility and ensure regulatory compliance.

2. Supply chain challenges in the fashion industry

Geopolitical conflicts, inflation, and climate change continue to cause significant disruptions in supply chains. According to areport by Deloitte, 56% of fashion executives cited supply chain disruptions as their top challenge. Companies need to develop resilient, agile supply chains with real-time visibility and diversified sourcing strategies to mitigate these risks and ensure smooth operations. Implementing technologies like AI and blockchain can help track and predict disruptions, allowing for proactive management.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerabilities in global supply chains, leading to delays, increased costs, and production halts. As the world grapples with ongoing geopolitical tensions and climate-related disruptions, the fashion and apparel industry must rethink its supply chain strategies. Nearshoring and reshoring have emerged as viable options to reduce dependence on distant manufacturing hubs. By bringing clothing production closer to home markets, brands can reduce lead times, improve quality control, and enhance their responsiveness to market changes.

Investing in technology is crucial for modernizing supply chains. AI can optimize inventory management and demand forecasting, while blockchain can enhance transparency and traceability. These technologies enable brands to monitor their supply chains in real-time, identify potential bottlenecks, and respond swiftly to disruptions. Additionally, fostering strong relationships with suppliers and diversifying sourcing options can further enhance supply chain resilience.

3. Value-driven fashion: Adapting to changing consumer behavior in the retail apparel sector

Despite slowing inflation, cautious spending habits continue to define consumer behavior in 2026. Over 60% of global shoppers actively seek ways to reduce their fashion expenses, with U.S. figures reaching 75% and expected to surpass 80% by the end of the year. This shift reflects deeper changes in consumer priorities, as shoppers increasingly favor affordability, durability, and practical purchases over frequent indulgence in new collections. The demand for value-driven fashion is driving significant growth in off-price retailers, secondhand markets, and dupes, affordable alternatives to luxury goods. The resale market alone is projected to expand at a 12% annual rate, with secondhand sales expected to represent 10% of the global clothing market by the end of this year. Meanwhile, social media and price-conscious younger consumers continue to fuel the mainstream acceptance of dupes, challenging traditional notions of brand exclusivity.

For fashion brands, this cautious spending environment presents both risks and opportunities. Consumers are no longer willing to pay premium prices without clear justification, making quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design essential differentiators. To maintain relevance, brands must communicate the tangible value behind their pricing, whether through superior materials, extended product lifespan, or sustainable production practices. Additionally, businesses must be adaptable, integrating more flexible pricing models, loyalty incentives, and resale initiatives to meet evolving consumer expectations. Those that fail to align with the shift toward affordability and practicality risk losing relevance in a market where spending restraint and perceived value increasingly dictate purchasing decisions.

4. Cybersecurity: A rising threat in the digitally transformed fashion industry

As fashion brands increasingly adopt digital platforms, the risk of cyber-attacks grows. Recent high-profile cases illustrate the vulnerabilities faced by the industry. For instance, in 2021, Italian fashion brand Moncler experienced a ransomware attack where stolen data of employees, suppliers, consultants, and customers was leaked after the company refused to pay a $3 million ransom. Similarly, French Connection faced a ransomware attack that exploited a security vulnerability, exposing private internal data.

According to IBM's Cost of a Data Breach Report, the average total cost of a data breach in retail was $4.88 million in 2024. The complexity of systems and compliance failures were significant factors amplifying these costs. To protect sensitive customer information and maintain trust, it is critical for fashion brands to ensure robust cybersecurity measures, data encryption, and compliance with privacy regulations.

Luxury brands, in particular, are attractive targets due to the high-value data they possess, including personal information of high-profile clients, product-specific data, and intellectual property. Investing in cybersecurity infrastructure and regular staff training on data protection protocols can mitigate these risks. Additionally, conducting technical audits, reviewing supply chains, and implementing comprehensive cybersecurity policies are essential steps for reducing the attractiveness of brands as cyber targets and safeguarding against potential breaches.

The rise of e-commerce and digital transformation has made fashion brands prime targets for cybercriminals. Data breaches can lead to significant financial losses and damage to a brand's reputation. Therefore, investing in robust cybersecurity measures is imperative. This includes implementing multi-factor authentication, regular security audits, and comprehensive data encryption.

Employee training is another crucial aspect of cybersecurity. Human error is often the weakest link in cybersecurity defenses, so educating staff about the importance of data protection and recognizing phishing attempts can prevent breaches. Additionally, brands should establish incident response plans to quickly address and mitigate the impact of any security breaches.

5. Inclusivity and diversity: Rethinking representation in fashion retail

The fashion industry continues to struggle with inclusivity and diversity, both in workforce representation and product offerings. The "State of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Fashion" report by the CFDA and PVH Corp. highlights that the industry faces significant challenges in achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly in terms of racial equity related to talent acquisition and retention.

This report, which draws on research and analysis by McKinsey & Company, involved a survey of over 1,000 industry professionals across 41 companies, 20 stakeholder interviews, and three focus groups with students and emerging designers. The findings emphasize the need for brands to embrace a broader range of sizes, genders, and ethnicities in their collections and marketing efforts to appeal to a diverse customer base.

Promoting inclusivity within company culture and ensuring diverse representation in advertising can drive consumer engagement and loyalty. The report identifies six key areas of opportunity: awareness, access, promotion, advocacy, compensation, and belonging, providing a framework for companies to improve their culture and foster a talent pipeline from underrepresented communities.

Inclusivity and diversity have become essential values for consumers, especially among younger generations. The fashion industry has historically been criticized for its lack of representation, but recent years have seen increased efforts to address these issues. Brands like Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty by Rihanna have set new standards for inclusivity in fashion and beauty, offering a wide range of sizes and shades to cater to diverse consumers.

To foster inclusivity, brands must ensure that their product offerings reflect the diversity of their customer base. This includes expanding size ranges, creating gender-neutral collections, and featuring models of different ethnicities, ages, and body types in their marketing campaigns. Internally, brands should strive to create inclusive workplaces by promoting diversity in hiring and leadership positions.

6. E-commerce returns and fit issues

E-commerce has revolutionized the fashion industry, making shopping more convenient but also leading to high return rates. While overall e-commerce return rates declined from 17.6% in 2023 to 14.5% in 2025, fashion remains a major exception, with returns hovering around 25%. This issue stems largely from fit inconsistencies, style mismatches, and the widespread practice of home try-ons, where customers order multiple sizes or styles to try at home before returning unwanted items. These frequent returns increase operational costs and impact profitability for brands.

To tackle this challenge, fashion retailers are turning to technology-driven solutions. AI-powered sizing recommendations, virtual try-on tools, and 3D body scanning can help customers find the right fit before purchasing, reducing the likelihood of returns. Additionally, improved product descriptions, high-quality images, and customer reviews provide more accurate information, setting proper expectations. Machine learning can analyze return patterns, allowing brands to refine sizing charts and product designs, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and reducing waste.

Beyond technology, data analytics plays a crucial role in addressing return issues. By examining trends in returns, brands can identify recurring sizing or quality issues and adjust their offerings accordingly. Better inventory management, customer service enhancements, and streamlined return policies can also improve the shopping experience while minimizing losses. Investing in these strategies not only reduces operational costs but also strengthens customer trust and loyalty, ensuring long-term success in the competitive fashion e-commerce landscape.

7. Textile waste and production challenges in the apparel industry

Fashion continues to generate massive amounts of textile waste, posing a significant environmental challenge. By 2030, an estimated 148 million tons of textile waste will be dumped in landfills, marking a 60% increase from 2015. Despite growing awareness, less than 1% of clothing is currently recycled into new garments, highlighting the urgent need for scalable recycling solutions.

To combat this crisis, brands must adopt closed-loop systems, where old garments are transformed into new products, and invest in biodegradable fabrics and efficient recycling technologies. Companies like Patagonia and Circle Sportswear are already leading the way with take-back programs and recycled collections, setting a precedent for the industry. However, systemic change requires larger-scale innovations, such as fiber-to-fiber recycling, digital product passports for traceability, and stronger regulatory incentives.

With landfill waste projections rising, the fashion industry faces a make-or-break moment in 2026: embracing circular economy principles and sustainable production methods is no longer optional, it's required.

At Heuritech, we are fans of Circle Sportswear, a French brand elevating sustainability in the sportswear sector. Circle Sportswear's commitment to sustainability is evident in its design and manufacturing processes. Its products are fully recyclable, allowing old garments to be seamlessly transformed into new ones. Its latest innovation, the SuperNatural Runner, exemplifies this approach. It is engineered for easy disassembly after use, ensuring that each component can be effectively recycled and repurposed into new products.

The fashion industry's waste problem is monumental, with millions of tons of textiles ending up in landfills yearly. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach. Brands should invest in closed-loop recycling systems, where old garments are collected, broken down, and transformed into new products. Additionally, innovations in biodegradable and sustainable fabrics can help reduce the environmental impact of fashion production. Educating consumers about sustainable consumption and disposal practices is also crucial in reducing textile waste.

8. Digital transformation in the fashion industry

The fashion industry's digital transformation is accelerating, driven by rapid technological advancements and the growing need for efficiency, sustainability, and personalization. The global apparel market is projected to reach more than $2.25 trillion USD by 2026, up from $1.5 trillion in 2020, fueling increased investment in digital tools to streamline operations and enhance customer engagement.

According to this year's Fashion Technology Research Report from the Interline, 80% of fashion professionals now use industry-specific technology tools daily or weekly, and nearly 90% believe that 3D and digital product creation tools will help transform their operations within the next year. Additionally, 82% of executives recognize the value of generative AI, while 80% see digital innovation as key to achieving sustainability goals. By 2026, technology won't just support operations, it will define them.

The leading edge of this evolution is Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), rapidly moving from a pilot phase to an operational standard. Executives widely recognize its value, as GenAI is now integrated into the design process to accelerate product creation, reduce time-to-market, and minimize the waste associated with physical prototyping. Experts believe that up to 90% of digital product creation operations will be transformed by advanced 3D and digital tools.

Beyond product creation, the focus on the customer experience is shifting towards immersive and virtual platforms. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Try-Ons (VTO) are becoming ubiquitous, directly tackling high e-commerce return rates. Brands are leveraging virtual platforms and digital fashion initiatives as powerful channels for sales and deep customer engagement with "phygital" collections.

By adopting AI-driven demand forecasting, digital sampling, and automated production processes, brands can reduce overproduction, optimize inventory, and improve speed-to-market. In a competitive and rapidly evolving fashion landscape, digital transformation is no longer an option; it's the cost of entry for brands looking to scale and innovate in 2026.

9. Attracting and retaining talent

The fashion industry faces a talent deficit, exacerbated by its poor sustainability reputation and low wages. To attract skilled professionals, brands need to offer competitive salaries, inclusive workplaces, and opportunities for career growth and development. Creating a positive and dynamic work environment can enhance employee satisfaction and retention.

Attracting and retaining top talent is a perennial challenge in the fashion industry. The industry's reputation for low wages and poor working conditions has made it less appealing to skilled professionals. To overcome this, brands must improve their employer value proposition by offering competitive salaries, benefits, and career development opportunities. Additionally, fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture can help attract a diverse pool of talent and improve employee retention.

Mentorship programs, continuous learning opportunities, and clear career progression paths can enhance employee satisfaction and loyalty. Brands should also focus on creating a positive work environment that values creativity, collaboration, and innovation. By investing in their workforce, brands can build a strong, motivated team capable of driving growth and innovation.

10. Rebuilding consumer trust: Transparency in the future of fashion

Consumer trust is a growing challenge for the fashion industry in 2026, with skepticism toward corporate claims at an all-time high. The latest Edelman Trust Barometer reports a global Trust Index of 56, while the UK has dropped to 43, placing it among the lowest-ranked countries. This decline reflects widespread consumer doubt, particularly regarding sustainability, labor ethics, and supply chain transparency. Key concerns fueling this distrust include misinformation, with 70% of people believing corporations intentionally mislead the public, along with economic uncertainty and fears of discrimination. In this environment, brands must prioritize radical transparency, offering clear, verifiable disclosures rather than vague sustainability claims. Blockchain technology is becoming an essential tool, allowing brands to authenticate supply chain data and provide consumers with real-time visibility into sourcing and production practices.

However, technology alone is not enough to repair trust, brands must also engage in open, consistent communication. Consumers now expect businesses to acknowledge both progress and challenges in their sustainability efforts rather than offering polished but unsubstantiated narratives. Third-party certifications such as Fair Trade, GOTS, and the EU's Digital Product Passport are becoming key indicators of accountability, helping brands differentiate genuine ethical commitments from greenwashing. Additionally, transparency must extend beyond sustainability, encompassing fair wages, responsible marketing, and honest pricing structures. By embracing traceable supply chains, verifiable impact measurement, and open dialogue, fashion brands can mitigate consumer skepticism and cultivate long-term loyalty in an era where trust is a decisive factor in purchasing decisions.

The future of clothing: Where innovation, responsibility, and identity intersect

In 2026, the apparel and fashion industry are not just navigating complexity; they are undergoing a profound redefinition. The future of clothing is shaped by powerful, integrated forces: mandated sustainability and circularity, the scaling of AI-driven digital transformation, and rising consumer demand for radical transparency, personalization, and inclusivity.

While only 18% of fashion executives see sustainability as a top business risk this year, circularity remains a strategic priority for forward-thinking brands. The resale market continues to expand, projected to reach $350 billion by 2028, growing at an annual rate of 11%. Meanwhile, consumer preferences are shifting: 71% of shoppers now say they plan to keep their clothes longer.

Technology is a cornerstone of this evolution. According to The Interline, 80% of fashion professionals use digital tools weekly, with 3D design, AI, and automation playing a growing role in streamlining production and forecasting trends. Smart textiles, digital fashion, and blockchain-backed transparency tools are opening new paths for innovation and accountability.

At the same time, fashion is accelerating towards hyper-personalization and radical inclusivity. From on-demand manufacturing and made-to-measure platforms to universally size-inclusive, gender-neutral, and culturally diverse designs, the industry is now adapting to consumer calls for genuine authenticity and systemic representation. The future of clothing is no longer just about the product itself; it's about how it's made, why it matters, and the verifiable values it reflects. For brands, this is a decisive moment to align creativity with regulatory responsibility and tech-powered foresight.

How Heuritech can help brands win in 2026

In 2026, fashion brands face intense pressure from market volatility, supply chain complexity, and new regulatory mandates. Staying competitive requires data-driven strategies that offer clear visibility into consumer expectations and emerging trends.

Heuritech's advanced AI-driven social media analysis is the solution. By analyzing millions of images and posts daily, our tool empowers brands to anticipate demand with high accuracy, up to 24 months in advance. This intelligence is crucial for:

Minimizing waste: Aligning collections with consumer desire to avoid costly overproduction.

Optimizing inventory: Ensuring you produce the right item, at the right time.

Strategic decision-making: Capitalizing on regional growth and adapting quickly to new purchasing behaviors.

It is already possible to say what trends are expected to make waves in upcoming seasons: Dots, Brut Denim, Moccasins... and for brands to anticipate. As digital transformation accelerates, AI-powered forecasting is no longer an advantage; it's essential. Heuritech provides the precision and agility needed to thrive in an era where data is the new competitive edge, equipping brands with unparalleled visibility into the evolving fashion landscape.

Would you like to learn more about Heuritech?

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10 Challenges The Fashion Industry Will Face in 2026

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From sustainability to digital transformation, the fashion industry is set to navigate a complex landscape of challenges in 2026.

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Year ending 30 April 2023

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Year ending 30 April 2021

Year ending 30 April 2020

Year ending 30 April 2019

Year ending 30 April 2018

Year ending 30 April 2017

Year ending 30 April 2016

Year ending 30 April 2015

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We love fashion, but we don't want our clothes to come at the cost of people or our planet.

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What Fuels Fashion? : Fashion Revolution

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We love fashion, but we don’t want our clothes to come at the cost of people or our planet.

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AS WORN BY: Jessie Reyez, French Montana, Yuna, Roy Woods, Krewella, Meesha Shafi, Ali Gatie, Faouzia, & Riz Ahmed. AS FEATURED ON BY: GQ Magazine, WhoWhatWear, Complex , W Magazine & more. MISSION: We create meaningful street wear rooted in tradition, culture and history. With each piece, we hope to blend mode

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Our Story

Bodice is built on a foundation that idolizes a journey back to the fundamental. A cerebral design philosophy replaces social yardsticks as our practice manifests the impulse to refine and elevate while also allowing imperfections be. Our signature aesthetic is born out of careful deliberation and a childlike curiosity to explore the indigenous fabrics and time-honoured weaving traditions of India with a contemporary approach.

Bodice's true north points towards detail-centric architectural lines and geometry. There is a minimal, pared-back approach to India's rich heritage of craft which is expressed through clean silhouettes, graceful fluidity, and geometric proportions.

With a disagreement to swim with the tide of seasons and trends came the ability to look through a lens that is eternal, lending a transeasonal energy to our creations; the garments allow easy flow from day to night. The resolute practicality, simplicity, and heightened construction in the designs make the wearer its confidante.

The values incorporated into the rubric of the brand find root in the creative vision of founder Ruchika Sachdeva. From being born in West Delhi to studying Bachelor of Arts in London, from stitching her mother's dupattas as a child to being an usher of change in Indian contemporary clothing, Sachdeva's global vision is deeply rooted in her traditions. After graduating from London College of Fashion and interning with the likes of Vivienne Westwood and Giles Deacon, Bodice was officially born in May 2011.

From being listed on Business of Fashion (BOF 500) to winning the prestigious International Woolmark Prize in 2018, winning the Vogue India Designer of the Year and Grazia India Millennial Designer of the Year, GQ India Award for 'Breakthrough Designer' to being listed in 'Forbes 30 under 30' are few of the milestones that have punctuated her journey since the inception of Bodice. However, it is her untiring social entrepreneurial ventures and the simultaneous quest to merge the same into her design language which has been the guiding foresight for Bodice.

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Our Story Bodice is built on a foundation that idolizes a journey back to the fundamental. A cerebral design philosophy replaces social yardsticks as our practice manifests the impulse to refine and elevate while also allowing imperfections be.

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Mindfully-made clothing inspired by travel, vibrant hues, and the infinite beauty of nature.

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Buyers’ Briefing: Women’s Colour A/W 25/26

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Buyers’ Briefing: Women’s Colour A/W 25/26

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Colour A/W 25/26

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Using Odisha’s intricate textile traditions, we create contemporary high-fashion garments suitable for an urban audience, while keeping the unique patterns and motifs alive.

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I was a Sari - Fashion for Planet Lovers

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In a time of climate crisis, dress differently. Browse our light summer statement pieces, all made using fabric that would have ended up in landfill, using circular production. Bags, Clothing, Jewelry, Home, and Accessories all ethically made in India.