Qualitative-empirical insights into generative AI for textile design in the fashion design process

With the popularization of generative AI, its application in fashion design has become a heavily explored area. However, despite this trend, existing studies of AI applications in fashion design have predominantly concentrated on addressing style attributes, and given less attention toward textile attributes and real-world practical implications. This indicates an opportunity to explore the practical industry application of generative AI specifically toward the textile design component of the fashion design process. This study aims fill this gap by setting out to empirically evaluate the potential value of using generative AI to create textile designs in the fashion design process. It addresses this objective by conducting a series of qualitative semi-structured interviews with 10 fashion industry professionals. Through thematic analysis of the interviews, this study uncovers the potential advantages and obstacles associated with implementing generative AI for textile design in the fashion industry. The outcome of this study sheds light on the potential benefits and barriers of integrating generative AI as a creative tool to facilitate textile design in the fashion design process.