Walmart Uses AI Tool to Cut Fashion Lead Times by 18 Weeks

Date: April 11, 2025
Author: Hannah Abdulla

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Walmart has changed how it makes fashion. It now uses an AI tool that cuts lead times by 18 weeks. The tool is named Trend-to-Product. It uses generative AI to speed up design and production.

Changing Fashion Production

The usual process takes about six months. Designers spend time studying trends from runways, social media, and trend services. Walmart now adds a new step. The tool collects data from many online sources. This data helps the team build items that match current trends fast and well.

How Trend-to-Product Works

Trend-to-Product builds mood boards with themes, colors, textures, and design ideas. Making mood boards used to take many hours. The tool now starts the boards on its own. After the boards take shape, it makes tech packs that show suppliers how to produce each item. With these tech packs, suppliers know what to do. The design-to-production process now takes one hour. Walmart can send new collections to stores and online in six to eight weeks.

Impact on Design and Production

Jen Jackson Brown, Senior Vice President for Apparel Brand and Design at Walmart US, says the tool cuts the process by 18 weeks. She says people and tech work side by side. The tool lets the team spend less time tracking trends and more time making quality items for customers.

Andrea Albright, Executive Vice President of Sourcing, welcomes the tool. She says the company saw a chance to add AI at the start of the process. She hints that the tool may find new jobs beyond fashion soon.

Conclusion

The new tool shows Walmart’s strong drive to push retail forward in fashion. AI speeds work and helps the company stay sharp in a fast-changing market. Other retailers may follow Walmart’s steps to boost their speed and meet customer needs.

AI-Driven Discount Methods Change Fashion Industry in Inflation

BERLIN, GERMANY – The fashion sector faces inflation. A new report by 7Learnings and Dealavo shows how pricing shifts occur in the market. Pricing data comes from 966 brands and 1,006 retailers. The study covers trends in 2023 and 2024. ### Responding to Inflation with Smart Discounting

Retailers shift how they set prices. They raise prices for 2024 but slow the rise. They cut discount rates on some items. They do this to keep prices fair and protect their brand. The report finds that brands now set like prices on their own sites and on online shops. In the past, brands charged more on their sites. Many brands now match these prices to win customers.

The Role of AI in Price Tweaks

Retailers add AI to help with price tweaks. AI helps them choose the best discounts. AI tools study how customers buy and what the market needs. Tamaris used AI to adjust its discounts. With AI, Tamaris cut its discount rate by 5%. This cut helped raise profits and kept sales strong.

Insights from 7Learnings

Felix Hoffmann, co-founder and CEO of 7Learnings, sees data as a strong guide. He says, “Our study shows that fashion companies that add AI and smart tech can set better prices and win in the long run. Our report gives advice that helps companies adjust pricing and discount methods in future months.”

Advice for the Future

The report calls on fashion companies to focus on small, data-based discount moves. Using AI, they can fine-tune prices. Instead of wide seasonal sales, shops can act based on what buyers need. This plan helps raise profits and keeps buyers tied to the brand.

About 7Learnings

7Learnings is an AI-powered pricing firm based in Berlin. Founded in 2019, the firm helps retailers predict price effects, set the best prices, and cut manual work by up to 80%. Its clients include known brands like Westwing, Bonprix, and Tom Tailor.

For more details, please use the contact information below.

Contact:
7Learnings
Address: Engeldamm 64b, 10179 Berlin
Phone: +49 30 403677370
Email: [email protected]

The report gives a clear view of trends that help fashion retailers apply smart discount tactics. This guide shows a way to keep success in a tough market.

The Human Touch: Raphaele Sohier on What AI Can’t Capture in Fashion Photography

By Henry Tuppen
October 7, 2023

Fashion shows shine on glossy runways and busy streets. Yet, fashion stays true when experts work side by side. Stylists, producers, photographers, and set designers join forces. Each one brings skills that build clear images.

For our Autumn/Winter 2025 (AW25) issue at New Wave Magazine, we built a team in Paris for Fashion Week. One standout was photographer Raphaele Sohier. Her work feels honest and warm in a field that grows with AI. Her photos hold a raw look in a world where machines often lead.

The Collaboration That Caught Attention

During a busy Paris week, I watched Sohier work close with her team. As events flew by, her art mixed with bright emotions. Her work broke the usual mold. Our team enjoyed her visions so much that we have teamed with her once more. This step starts a new creative phase.

When talk of AI models and tech in art comes up—such as H&M’s note on AI models—I think hard on why human links matter. Fashion is not just front-row looks; it is about true bonds and projects built with care. People give life to work when they work together.

An Insightful Conversation

I sat with Raphaele to learn how she sees fashion and photography. We talked about her start, her sparks, and her future ideas.

Beginnings in Photography

NW: How did you start with photography?
RS: I played with a camera because my dad had one. At first, I just had fun. In high school, I earned a bit for photos, but I focused on basketball and studies then.

Inspirations and Influences

NW: Who inspires your work?
RS: I look up to photographers like Elizabeta Parodina for her bold use of color, Aidan Zamiri, and Gabriel Moses. I also gain ideas from the small details of everyday life.

Working in the Field

NW: How long have you worked in this field?
RS: I have worked as a photographer for over two years. Yet, I have loved photography all my life.

NW: What makes fashion photography different?
RS: Fashion tells a story through styles and clothes. I mix light, design, and teamwork to create one clear story.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence

NW: What do you think about H&M using AI models?
RS: I see new changes. But I do not believe machines can replace human art in photos. People seek bonds with other people. It does make me worry how fast tech grows. I trust that a human touch stays in creative work.

Celebrating Achievements

NW: Are there particular projects you remember well?
RS: Yes. Working with Vogue Arabia changed my career. Teaming up in Montreal was also a special time. We worked as a unit and grew together.

Advice for Aspiring Photographers

NW: What advice helps newcomers in photography?
RS: Stay true to who you are. Work hard on your art and on yourself. Good mental care helps shine in creative work.

Ups and Downs in the Field

NW: What obstacles do you see in your work?
RS: Keeping the same quality is hard. There is a steady push to move to the next job, and that can tire anyone.

NW: And what are the best parts?
RS: The best part is working with others who share passion. That team fire sparks new ideas.

The Creative Process

NW: How do you plan for a photo shoot?
RS: It starts with an idea. Sometimes the idea comes from a client, sometimes from me. I join up with stylists, makeup artists, and models. The goal is to stick true to our plan. On shoot day, I adjust light and camera, then work on the images later. In editing, I try small changes to get the best look.

NW: What does set preparation involve?
RS: I scout locations and plan many details. I coordinate roles with the creative leader. Teamwork helps each part fit into the whole story.

A Day on the Set

NW: How does a shoot day differ from a free day?
RS: On a shoot day, I wake early to check the plan and sketch light ideas. Off days mean editing, socializing, refreshing my portfolio, and finding fresh sparks. I mix rest and work to keep my mind clear.

The Path to Success

NW: What roles help one learn about photography?
RS: Helping established photographers is very useful. Working in production also shows how a shoot works. I once worked in real-world production. There I met a mentor who changed how I see the game.

NW: If you were not a photographer, what work would you choose?
RS: I might work in a health field like kinesiology. The study of movement has always drawn me in.

NW: How do you find work in such a busy field?
RS: Meeting new people matters a lot. Early on, I reached out, shared ideas, and worked hard until I met clients I liked.

Wrapping Up

NW: What note would you share with those new to the field?
RS: This field runs fast and is tough, but it fills you with growth if you keep learning. Change is normal. It is best to keep going; there is always a place for new looks.

Raphaele Sohier shows us a clear view of modern photography. She trusts teamwork and the warm hand of humans in work that may feel cold with tech. The future may hold new trials, but her drive and art will keep human links strong.

The Rise of AI in Fashion: 10 Best AI Fashion Designer Tools for 2025

April 1, 2025
By Alex McFarland
Unite.AI

In a fast world of fashion, tech meets style. Designers now use fresh tools to build designs quickly. AI helps them shape work in real time. This article lists ten top AI tools in April 2025. Each tool works as a partner to support art and save time.

Changing Fashion Design with AI

AI in fashion is more than a passing fad. It fuels fast changes and gives each designer space to shape their work. All types of creators, both seasoned and new, can pick up these tools. The AI stays close by, working word by word with the designer.

Here is a close look at ten AI fashion tools that mold today’s fashion.

1. The New Black

The New Black connects ideas and design in one smooth move. The platform reads short text breaks and builds cool items fast. It works for shoes, bags, and items made with 3D printing.

Key Features:

• Produces designs based on clear input.
• Allows quick changes and fixes.
• Links designers with a group of makers for idea sharing.

Read Review | Visit The New Black

2. Off/Script

Called "A Kickstart for Fashion," Off/Script lets you share your sketches with others. The group votes on ideas and supports your rights. It takes care of the full design task from start to finish.

Key Features:

• Lets the group pick the best design.
• Runs the process from design to production.
• Connects directly with producers who can make the piece.

Visit Off/Script

3. Ablo

Ablo opens up design for many users. It gives brands a tool to widen their work. The tool lets several makers work on one design, linking minds as a team.

Key Features:

• Helps brands grow with smart tools.
• Supports shared work among designers.
• Uses AI to break old design limits.

Visit Ablo

4. YesPlz

YesPlz shifts online shopping to a new gear. It acts like a personal shopper that notes what you like. Then it shows you neat choices that match your taste.

Key Features:

• Lets users see items clearly with a visual tool.
• Remembers user taste to serve smart picks.
• Comes with a text helper that gives style advice.

Visit YesPlz

5. Botika

Botika fits online stores that need quick, true-to-life photos. The platform uses AI to build product pictures fast, cutting both cost and time.

Key Features:

• Delivers high-quality photos in short order.
• Reduces cost for small shops.
• Offers many view styles to boost ads.

Visit Botika

Conclusion

Fashion and tech now move as close partners. AI tools help shape fresh work in design and speed up making. They push designers to try new style paths and fix old work routines.

As the field moves forward, AI will change how genres form and how people see fashion. The tools give each designer a hand in creating work that feels personal and true. Whether you work as a designer or just love fashion, these tools help you do more in today’s scene.

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For more news on AI in fashion and more tool reviews, visit our website at Unite.AI.

H&M Plans to Introduce AI Clones of Models, Sparking Controversy in Fashion Industry

By Issy Ronald, CNN

Updated 11:13 AM EDT, Fri March 28, 2025

H&M has shared a new plan that ties tech to fashion. The store, known as one of the largest clothing retailers, will soon create digital copies of its models. The project will produce 30 clones this year. The new plan may bring new work ways but also brings up hard questions on consent, pay, and jobs in fashion.

Digital Twins Concept

H&M wants models to keep control of their digital look. The company says that when a brand uses the copy, the model earns pay. This system lets models work with more than one brand much like they do when they work in person. The way pay works is meant to keep models safe in a digital era.

Mixed Reactions from Industry Stakeholders

Some in fashion see promise in H&M’s plan, while others worry. Paul W. Fleming from the UK’s Equity union spoke with hope but asked for more worker rules. He said that new computer tools must come with strong rules to keep workers safe. He added that a rush to use AI should not mean lower pay or worse work conditions.

"There must be clear rules to protect workers in union deals and laws," Fleming said. "The push for AI must not bring worse work for anyone."

Concerns Over Job Displacement

Sara Ziff, a model and labor activist, spoke on what this plan could mean for work. Ziff said that the plan brings up clear questions on consent and pay. She warned that digital copies might take the work of makeup artists, hairstylists, and other creative workers.

"In a field that has not always treated workers well, this plan may cut many jobs in our community," Ziff said.

The Broader Trend of AI in Fashion

H&M is not the first to try digital models. In March 2023, Levi Strauss & Co. said it would add AI models. They explained that the digital images would add to live photo shoots and not replace them. Last July, Spanish retailer Mango used only AI to make a campaign. AI in fashion now brings both change in ads and hard questions on true representation.

Conclusion

H&M’s plan to use digital copies of models may start long talks on fair work and new tech in fashion. As brands test new ways to work, talks on consent, fair pay, and job safety grow more needed. The work behind fashion must count as the world changes to a digital age.

Raspberry AI Upgrades Gen-AI Platform for Fashion Creatives with New Visual Marketing Tools

New York, NY – BUSINESS WIRE – Raspberry AI stands tall in generative AI for fashion creatives. The firm adds three new tools to its platform. The tools help marketing teams and merchandisers work fast. They cut design time, lower expenses, and boost profits.

New Features Transform Creative Processes

The tools let in-house creative groups see ideas fast and test new campaigns. They let teams try different product sets and shop designs with ease. Marketers and merchandisers face tough work in today’s rapid fashion cycle. These fresh tools shorten the time to finish a project and spare many work hours.

Mattia Giorgi, Head of AI and Innovation at Gruppo Teddy, said,
"Raspberry AI’s platform grows our team’s creativity and work speed. We now save many hours in design and marketing. This change helps us cut costs and use fewer resources."

Overview of the New Tools

1. On-Body Visualization
   This tool gives a virtual try-on view. It lets teams build lookbooks and web pages easily. Marketers can set up styles and see garments on digital models. The tool makes photo-real images that show items as they look in real life.

2. 3D Avatar to Photorealism
   This tool turns 3D avatar images into real photos in one click. Creative pros can show models in clear poses and styles. The tool helps brands get images ready for ads, billboards, and packaging with little fuss.

3. Background Generator
   This tool lets creatives change photo backgrounds in a snap. It offers many scene choices so brands skip expensive location shoots. Marketers can make images that match local tastes without extra travel costs.

Impact on Industry

Cheryl Liu, CEO and founder of Raspberry AI, said,
"Fashion teams now need AI that brings products to market fast and cuts cost." With these new tools, brands can get style images on the same day they create them. Raspberry AI’s platform works from idea to final design. It spots trends among buyers and gives clear market hints. The system speeds up idea work, tests prototypes, and turns sketches into technical designs in minutes.

With clients like KnitWell Group, Deckers Brands, and Kellwood, Raspberry AI leads in boosting creativity and saving money.

About Raspberry AI

Raspberry AI offers an AI image-generation system for retail brands. The system helps brands match products with customer needs. It lets teams build mood boards, capture lifestyle and product photos, and draw technical images from simple text prompts.

For more on Raspberry AI and its fresh solutions for the fashion world, visit their official website.

Media Contact:
Michael McMullan
Berns Communications Group
Email: [email protected]

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Raspberry AI works to cut waste in fashion and build teamwork among brand groups. The launch of these new tools marks a key step in changing fashion marketing and merchandising.

D-Congress 2025: How AI Is Powering Fashion, Culture, and E-Commerce

Exploring the Intersection of AI, Retail, and Sustainability

At D-Congress 2025, held at the Svenska Mässan in Gothenburg on March 5-6, leaders met with a clear aim. They saw AI change fashion, culture, and online trade. Experts and industry heads shared ideas on new methods, eco plans, and future customer trends. Sweden stands as a top name in digital trade. Its rich past and art tie closely to smart commerce.

A Global Perspective on E-Commerce Innovation

Per Ljungberg of Swedish Commerce opened the talk. He said, "Sweden is a nation powered by trade." He connected our culture and firm rules to fresh ideas in music, fashion, and tech. D-Congress now leads as the largest event in retail and online selling in the Nordics. Experts and firms present their new ideas. In his talk, the Swedish Prime Minister marked the event’s role in Sweden’s drive for eco plans and smart trade.

AI at the Heart of Retail Transformation

Speakers met on the bond of AI with fashion and online trade. Nicklas Hermansson, an expert in media and AI, said many jobs may in time be done by machines. He warned that many shops must change fast. His words met with interest from people in many fields.

Dr. Achim Berg, who knows much about fashion and high-end goods, spoke next. With help from Alex Kessler at i-D magazine, he said that AI brings fresh ideas. They spoke of hard issues in product returns and eco care. People from many trade groups listened close.

Strategies for E-Commerce Growth

The online trade part of the event spoke of ways to grow sales. Experts like Casper Lie from Global-e discussed local rules and how to improve shopping. One talk from Pandora showed that using AI across methods led to a 21% growth in 2024. ## Sustainable Practices Increasing Profitability

A clear topic was the mix of eco care and profit. Panelists such as Martin Börjesson from J.Lindeberg and Sylvia Wennberg of H&M spoke of smoothing work, cutting product returns, and building eco plans with AI. They agreed that firms must put eco care at their core to win in modern trade.

TikTok’s Role in E-Commerce Innovation

TikTok ran a session on its own AI tools, Smart+ and Symphony. The tools help manage ads and build content. Entrepreneurs Anna Erlandsson and Jacob Friberg told how brands like Stronger and Swappie grew sales and brand view in a crowded scene.

Redefining Retail with AI

Christian Krebs from Pandora spoke of a future where AI makes shopping feel fresh and personal. He said that online sites can copy the feel of a store visit. Pandora now fits a market of great style at fair cost and grows sales. Sebastian Siemiatkowski of Klarna also shared his thoughts. He talked about how money tech in trade shifts fast and how his firm will follow these changes.

Conclusion: Embracing an AI-Driven Future

D-Congress 2025 ended with a clear note. AI can change the future of fashion, art, and trade. Speakers told firms to adopt AI and change fast. As real and online worlds blend more, the talks at the event give a clear guide for those who wish to win in the AI age.

For more on D-Congress and its talks, keep in touch with news from world trade leaders.

Changing Fashion Photography: HuHu AI Studio Leads the Way with AI-Powered Image Creation

Introduction to HuHu AI Studio

In the fashion world, change comes fast. HuHu AI Studio uses artificial intelligence to change how brands make and manage images. Three big fashion brands now use this tool. They earn more than $100 million each. They saw a 43% boost in customer interest and a 17% rise in sales. They also cut costs and work faster. Old methods could not do this.

The Power of AI in Fashion Image Creation

HuHu AI Studio combines AI with human skills. It creates thousands of quality images in a few days instead of many weeks. The tool lets brands pick models, set scenes, and choose styles that match their look. The system gives brands clear control over their visuals.

Tianqiang Liu, CEO of HuHu AI, said, "HuHu AI Studio changes how brands make and use images. Our AI makes work faster and cuts costs while keeping each brand’s look."

Addressing Challenges in Old Fashion Photography

Old fashion photography shows many problems. Costs run high. Work takes a long time. Options stay few. These problems slow down product launches and raise expenses. Finding models, locations, and style adds more work and cost. The final images may not work as hoped.

HuHu AI Studio fixes these issues with a clear AI tool. The tool generates different models and scenes. Brands can create visuals that match their marketing plans. This tool cuts extra steps. It helps brands and teams make images that boost customer interest and grow sales while staying true to the brand look.

Conclusion

Fashion brands seek new ways to boost their marketing. HuHu AI Studio stands at the front of this change. It cuts costs, speeds up work, and lifts customer interest and sales. The AI tool helps brands meet the fast needs of the market. With HuHu AI Studio, the future of fashion photography is here. It brings new ways to work fast and keep each brand’s look.

Can AI Help Us Dress for March Madness?

Winter cool fades; spring warmth grows. March sits in between. The weather feels mixed. Mornings stay cool; afternoons warm up. Many feel lost when they choose clothes. Sweaters mix with short sleeves, jeans pair with shorts. Can AI help pick an outfit?

A Weather-Driven Dressing Dilemma

I check the weather each night before work. My routine tool, Alexa, tells me the forecast. It speaks: low is 48°F, high is 58°F, and rain falls all day. I feel uncertain about my clothes. I ask, "Can AI help me decide?"

Exploring AI Fashion Advisory

I use my iPhone to ask Gemini Flash model 2.0. I say, "If I show you my closet, what should I wear tomorrow?" The response says it cannot see my closet. Still, it gives a reply. It suggests wearing layers. I should start with a long-sleeve shirt or a light sweater and add a rainproof jacket. It even hints at packing a scarf and gloves. I wonder if it knows I might stay indoors; I need a reply that fits me better.

A Comparison with Siri

I then try Siri on my iPhone 16 Pro Max. I ask the same question. Siri only recites the weather report. It does not add any clothing advice. I hope Siri gets better at this soon.

ChatGPT to the Rescue

I reach out to ChatGPT 4.0 next. I ask it for help with my outfit choice. ChatGPT asks me to turn on my iPhone camera so it may see my closet. After a quick look, it advises a long-sleeve shirt with a light jacket or sweater and comfortable pants. Our talk feels clear and close. AI responds in a way that suits my needs.

Navigating Color Blindness

I see colors, but I have trouble with subtle shades. I once asked my wife each morning for a second look at my clothes. I then ask Gemini about my blue plaid shirt with jeans. Gemini confirms the colors work well. It names my shirt "blue plaid" even though I once thought it appeared black. I feel thankful for this check. When I check with ChatGPT, its reply also tells me my clothes match well. This news makes me feel sure about my style.

The Future of AI Fashion Advice

Both Gemini and ChatGPT give me useful advice. None can yet scan my entire closet or read the weather with one click. Still, these tools help me today. In our digital world, smart assistants aid our daily choices, even when March weather flips. With more progress, smart dressing may come soon.

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AI keeps growing smarter. We may soon have tools that decide our outfits with data and clear checks. Whether you face mixed March weather or plan a night out, these aids could join our daily routines.

Artificial Intelligence Fuels Surge in Secondhand Clothing Sales, Industry Leaders Claim

The fashion industry shifts. Secondhand clothing sales rise as artificial intelligence grows. James Reinhart, chief executive of ThredUp, one of the largest online resale sites, points out that global sales of used garments grew 15% last year. That growth came in at more than four times the pace of the overall fashion market.

Growing Market Share for Secondhand Clothing

Analysts at GlobalData, paid by ThredUp, show that sales of pre-owned clothing now hit around $227 billion (£175 billion). This sum makes up 9% of worldwide fashion sales. The number is much larger than it was five years ago. It shows that resale sites now claim a share once held by major brands.

Sales of secondhand clothing are expected to rise by 11% this year. AI search tools now help buyers find the items they want. These tools keep related words close, so shoppers quickly see choices based on past purchases.

Influencing Factors and Consumer Trends

The economy plays a part. Tariff changes on Chinese goods may push U.S. shoppers toward used clothing. As prices climb, many Americans seek better value. Reinhart says that when money is tight, buyers turn more to resale options.

ThredUp’s report shows 58% of buyers now choose used clothing. That is an increase of 6 percentage points from last year. The figure is even higher among young people. Among those aged 18 to 29, 68% bought secondhand items last year.

Innovations Changing the Resale Landscape

New AI tools change how people shop for used clothes. They help buyers put together looks using photos. They also show more affordable picks when customers check their carts. Reinhart said these updates make buying used clothes much more straightforward than in regular stores.

Vinted, a key resale company, will open its first street shop in London this week. Visitors view collections put together by well-known influencers. Items are not sold on the spot. Big stores like Primark and Selfridges now include sections for vintage clothing.

Sales Performance and Industry Challenges

Even though sales in the resale market grow, Reinhart said they have not met the goal of 10% of the global fashion market. Budget shops such as Shein and Temu have given buyers many choices and put pressure on resale sites.

Changes to small package limits in the U.S. and Europe might add import taxes to online sellers. This change could favor resale sites. U.S. rules differ from tougher European rules on textile waste.

ThredUp itself saw a modest sales increase of 1% last year, reaching $260 million. The company also reported a $40 million loss from ongoing work after it cut its European branch. Still, Reinhart noted that the old idea of used clothing not making money does not hold. ThredUp has made a base profit for over a year.

Other firms show progress too. UK company Depop reported a 31% increase in sales to reach £71.3 million in 2023 while reducing losses. Vinted, on the other hand, enjoyed a 61% increase in sales, nearly hitting €600 million (£513 million) and made a profit for the first time.

The rise in used clothing sales shows how buyers now value saving money and care for the environment. The resale market is set to grow as new technology makes shopping simpler and faster.