A.I., Fashion and rights: The rise of Artificial Intelligence in redefining Fashion paradigms

Fashion Design, both in its theoretical foundation and practical application, is experiencing a signifi-cant cognitive transformation. This evolution is best interpreted not simply as a mere transition but as a continuous process of adaptation that affects pro-fessions, processes, and cultures (Anantrasirichai & Bull, 2022). This ongoing change necessitates a critical re-evaluation and recalibration of current ontological and epistemological frameworks (Dufva & Dufva, 2019; Kraus et al., 2021), emphasizing the need to redefine and reconsider the principles and methodologies in the Fashion Design field. In this context, the emergence of artificial intelli-gence (AI) signifies the onset of an era of evolutions and revolutions in Fashion design thinking and practice, characterized by shifts, advancements, and radical changes (Ozmen Garibay et al., 2023). Fashion, traditionally reflective of societal, cultural, and economic dynamics, is now at a pivotal point due to the integration of AI into its processes. This transformation, both rapid and extensive, is reshap-ing the entire spectrum of the fashion industry, influencing various aspects such as design, produc-tion, customer purchasing experiences, and com-munication strategies (Särmäkari & Vänskä, 2022; Särmäkari, 2021). This leads to a significant paradigmatic shift in the field of design: the evolution in the generation of images and forms, especially through the use of generative algorithms, facilitates the creation of high-quality and realistic content. This evolution expands creative possibilities (Wingström et al., 2023; Miller, 2020), while simultaneously intro-ducing new ethical and methodological challenges (Siau, K., & Wang, W.; Luce, 2019). The arrival of these new tools is redefining the relationship between design and mathematics, between project and computational geometry, paving the way for an unprecedented interaction between different disciplines.New directions in knowledge and methodology are fostering the development of innovative research paradigms, as AI stands as one of the most signifi-cant technological innovations of our time, deeply rooted in the data revolution (Tedeschi & Lombar-di, 2017) and fundamentally based on mathemati-cal and logical structures. These structures form the core of AI’s ability to process, analyze, and inter-pret large volumes of data efficiently. Mathematics underpins the algorithms at the heart of AI, while machine learning and neural networks employ advanced calculations for continuous learning and improvement. The shift fostered by AI includes data-centric decision making (Verganti et al., 2020), where AI’s analysis of large datasets can inform and sometimes even influence design choices. AI can also intervene in creative abilities, enhancing them through gener-ation tools and machine learning (Thompson et al., 2016). It simplifies problem solving with efficient computing and simulation capabilities and facil-itates large-scale customization, allowing designs tailored to individual user preferences. In the fashion design field, AI extends beyond per-sonal consumer interactions, profoundly impacting the actual design processes (Särmäkari & Vänskä, 2022; Särmäkari, 2021; Luce, 2019). Designers, adapting to this AI-driven landscape, find their creative processes and problem-solving approaches being reshaped. The technology introduces a new paradigm in which design decisions are increasing-ly informed by data-driven insights. Consequently, the role of designers is evolving, requiring a harmo-nious blend of traditional creativity with AI’s ana-lytical capabilities, marking a significant evolution in both personal and professional realms influenced by AI.On the one hand, the pervasive and nuanced inte-gration of AI in daily activities marks a significant shift in how technology permeates everyday life. For individuals, this integration is evident in simple tasks, such as online shopping, where AI algorithms operate behind the scenes. By analyzing purchasing behaviors and personal preferences, these algo-rithms tailor experiences to individual needs, subtly guiding choices and shaping experiences (Andronie et al., 2021; Wong et al., 2013). This personalization raises significant questions about privacy and data management, highlighting the need to balance the benefits of customization with respect for indi-vidual privacy (Harrison et al., 2019; Xiong et al., 2019). On the other hand, the influence of AI in fashion exemplifies a broader paradigm shift where traditional processes are redefined by data-driven insights and innovative technological approaches.