Expression. Connection. Empowerment.

When you wear a garment, whether consciously or not, you are conveying something about yourself; you are sharing aspects of your identity. At times, this expression is deliberate, reflecting beliefs, values, or passions, while at other times, it may be subconscious. Consider the instance when you wear apparel featuring the graphics of your favorite artist or sports team, or when you don clothing adorned with messages challenging societal norms. In these moments, you are projecting facets of your personality. While we may not always recognize this phenomenon, it becomes ingrained in our routines or feels inherently natural, each time we choose a particular garment, we are articulating something about ourselves. Therefore, expression has perpetually been a pivotal element of fashion, intrinsic to its essence. Throughout history, people have utilized fashion as a means of self-expression. Sometimes this expression was restrained, while at other times, it became more uninhibited, allowing individuals to fully articulate themselves. This will be better understood through the third element I will explore.

Throughout history, fashion has served as a foundation for building communities and tribes. Since ancient times, people have formed connections with one another through fashion. Regardless of the era we explore, fashion has consistently served as a means of connecting individuals and delineating relationships. Central to the essence of fashion is this innate ability to foster connections, transcending the need for verbal communication. People establish bonds simply by observing what others are wearing. Moreover, beyond fostering connections with others, fashion often facilitates a deeper connection with oneself. The garments we choose, and the ones we admire, sometimes reflect unconscious choices, yet through a keen examination, we can uncover profound insights about ourselves through this seemingly simple act of donning attire. Fashion thus transcends mere aesthetic expression, becoming a powerful medium for self-discovery.

Empowerment emerges as a natural consequence of expression through garments and the connections forged between people. Consider the impact of streetwear or the defiant spirit of the flapper era in the 1920s. These moments epitomized periods when individuals, driven by a shared desire for self-expression and a rejection of stifling societal norms, united to effect change through the power of clothing. Fashion served as their conduit for making their voices heard and achieving the “freedom” they yearned for. Recognizing that mere words were insufficient to enact change, they leveraged fashion to amplify and contextualize their messages. Across history, from diverse vantage points, fashion has consistently empowered individuals and catalyzed transformative shifts. However, it's crucial to understand that empowerment represents just one link in the chain. It unfolds only after people express themselves and find their tribe, forging connections that amplify their collective strength. Thus, empowerment emerges organically as people unite, express themselves, and find solidarity in their shared values and aspirations.

Expression, connection, and empowerment form the fundamental essence of fashion, transcending the mere perception of garments or accessories. This trinity lies at the heart of fashion's true soul. Even the garment you wear at this moment communicates something about you. Each of us likely possesses a garment that has fostered a connection with another person or has empowered us in some way. However, we may not have actively considered our garments from this perspective. To truly grasp this idea, one must possess the curiosity to look beyond the surface and continually question what lies beneath. Asking, “What if there is something more?” opens the mind to new possibilities. By embracing this question, we begin to realize that there is depth not only in fashion but in all aspects of life. This shift in perspective has the potential to transform our approach to life and its myriad facets. I firmly believe that understanding the essence of fashion can contribute to making the world a better place. ( A topic for another time )

I've often explored the essence of fashion in my writings, and I wanted to touch upon it once more to provide context for those who may not be familiar with my work or my perspective. Truth be told, I'm not particularly interested in the fashion industry itself—the numbers, the garments—it all holds little fascination for me. What truly captivates me about fashion are the three core elements I mentioned earlier. It wasn't until I understood the significance of expression, connection, and empowerment in fashion that I realized why I've always been drawn to it. While others may find different reasons to love fashion, I believe many share my appreciation for these fundamental aspects.

Now, in this technologically driven era, we inhabit, I find myself enamored with new branches of fashion that emerge from the rapid evolution of technology—specifically digital, AI, and onchain fashion. Though currently seen as different from traditional fashion, I foresee that in just a few years, if not sooner, they will be seamlessly integrated into the fabric of fashion itself. Eventually, when people think of fashion, they may first envision these innovative technologies before considering the physical garments we're accustomed to today. What excites me most about these developments is how they enhance and amplify the very qualities that drew me to physical fashion: connection, expression, and empowerment—the essence of fashion.

Before delving into looking at fashion’s essence through these new technological lenses, I'd like to provide a brief definition of each. For a better understanding, I advise you to do further research on them.

Digital fashion encompasses clothing and accessories that exist solely within virtual environments, currently created using 3D software such as CLO3D, Marvelous Designer, Blender, and others.

AI Fashion involves the use of various programs, such as Midjourney, to assist in the creation of fashion designs and concepts.

Onchain fashion bridges both physical and digital realms, with garments and accessories bought, sold, and traded through blockchain technology.

These brief definitions aim to offer context for those unfamiliar with these concepts, but I encourage you to explore them further for a deeper understanding. Now, let's explore how these branches tap into fashion’s essence…

When we picture digital worlds and virtual environments, we often imagine realms where the impossible becomes possible—a place where creations exist beyond the constraints of reality. This idea holds true for fashion in the digital realm. Whether discussing digital fashion or AI fashion—where digital fashion is predominantly worn and AI fashion is primarily exhibited—both offer avenues to challenge the physical norms we're accustomed to and realize the fashion we've always dreamed of.

In the digital sphere, we have the power to bring to life the garments we desire, representing ourselves in ways previously unimaginable. From wearable sculptures to attire inspired by buildings, the possibilities within digital fashion are boundless. Creativity is the only limitation in this realm; one can embody, wear, and showcase anything their heart envisions.

True innovation in digital fashion goes beyond mere replication of physical garments. It defies the constraints of the human body itself—ushering in a new era of self-expression unrestricted by physical limitations. Why confine ourselves to creations feasible in the physical realm when the digital landscape offers limitless opportunities? This is why I regard digital fashion as the golden age of self-expression.

Furthermore, digital fashion not only facilitates self-expression through wearing or purchasing but also streamlines the creation process. With mastery of a few programs on a computer, one can design and don these digital garments without the need for materials or traditional equipment. Digital fashion heralds a true golden age of self-expression, offering unparalleled freedom and accessibility from inception to realization.

Just as in physical fashion, the digital realm fosters connection as well. I've long held the belief that digital fashion has the potential to spawn new subcultures, and here's why. In a digital landscape where limitless creation is possible, the desire for uniqueness and authenticity will inevitably surge. This may lead to a decrease in uniformity and an increase in diversity among digital garments. However, despite this drive to stand out, the innate human need for connection remains paramount. The sense of belonging transcends material wealth, social status, and power—it's a fundamental human yearning.

Consider, for instance, a scenario where digitally crafted garments exhibit varying aesthetics yet share common symbols or motifs that serve as a unifying thread. Whether it's sneakers, dresses, hoodies, or T-shirts, each item may possess unique characteristics while still forming part of a cohesive identity. These symbols become the secret language of a tribe, known only to those who don the garments and belong to the community.

However, the collective connection doesn't stop there. Blockchain technology enables digital fashion creators to sell and trade their designs directly to the consumer, bypassing traditional intermediaries. This direct engagement fosters a deeper bond between creators and fans, as artists connect directly with their collectors. And this connection between the artist and fanbase catalyzes broader collective connections.

Each artist cultivates a community around their work, and the bonds forged between artists and their followers extend beyond individual relationships to create a network of interconnected individuals. The garments purchased from these artists serve as tangible reminders of this shared connection, fostering deeper ties between members of the community.

While the topic of digital fashion's impact on connection is vast, I hope to have planted a seed in your minds and hearts, illustrating how the digital realm taps into one of fashion's core elements: connection.

Now, we arrive at the third core element of fashion, which personally excites me the most, not only for its potential to empower people collectively but also on an individual level. Reflect on the earlier discussion of streetwear. People united, wearing physical garments to convey diverse messages and empower themselves. However, their impact was constrained by physical limitations, restricting both their reach and how they could express themselves. In contrast, within the digital realm, a single video or image can reach millions within seconds, and creativity knows no bounds. Furthermore, the garments can take any shape that the creators want. The messages can be more clearly manifested than ever. Can you fathom the empowerment that the blend of these two fosters? I'll leave that to your imagination as I delve into what truly ignites my excitement about how fashion's evolution empowers people on an individual scale.

Currently, active participation in the fashion industry, establishing a brand, selling garments, or securing a position with a renowned label remains a daunting task for individuals like myself—ordinary people lacking substantial resources or influential connections. However, the fusion of technology and fashion promises a paradigm shift, paving the way for the next Demna or Louis Vuitton to emerge from the digital sphere. Digital fashion democratizes design, granting anyone with imagination and determination the opportunity to become a fashion designer. AI Fashion offers a similar avenue for creative expression. Moreover, through blockchain technology, creators can directly sell their creations to consumers, bypassing intermediaries and ensuring fair compensation for their work.

This digital evolution is poised to unearth the fashion industry's future leaders. Physical brands are poised to enter the digital realm, leveraging their power to offer unparalleled experiences to consumers. And who stands to benefit the most? The innate digital creators. Brands will seek out their expertise and talent, reversing the traditional dynamic where creators pursued brands. Furthermore, we can anticipate the emergence of countless individual brands, poised to disrupt the industry. Digital fashion enables many to sell digital garments initially, with the potential to transition to physical products later, if at all. It also mitigates many of the costs associated with launching a fashion brand.

While not all digital-native brands may achieve widespread recognition—much like not every designer reaches the pinnacle of fame—I am confident that the next Demna or Louis Vuitton will emerge from this digital landscape.

And here lies the essence of fashion—how digital, AI, and on-chain fashion intersect with its core. This evolution fills me with excitement, as it underscores what fashion truly means to me. While some may perceive fashion merely as garments, for me, it has always encompassed these three elements. Witnessing them amplified in the ongoing digital evolution, and recognizing that these advancements are ultimately for the betterment of individuals, brings me immense joy.

Yet, if my words were not enough to plant a seed of reflection within your hearts, I would love you to pause and reflect on these questions: How do these emerging technologies redefine our understanding of creativity and identity? In a world where digital avatars can don couture as effortlessly as their real-life counterparts, what does it mean to truly express oneself? As we witness the line between physical and virtual fashion blur, how do we navigate this brave new world with integrity and authenticity?

I see these questions serving as guiding lights, illuminating the path forward as we embrace the transformative power of technology in fashion. This marriage brings to life a landscape where innovation knows no bounds, where the intangible and the tangible converge, and where we are invited to explore, experiment, and envision a future where fashion is not just a reflection of who we are, but a catalyst for who we can become!

And thus, looking ahead, I will leave you with the words of the great Coco Chanel: “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

Let us dare to dream, to defy conventions, and to shape a world where fashion is not just a mirror, but a beacon of expression, connection, and empowerment for all.

Artist Spotlight

Stephy Fung

If you have an interest in digital fashion, chances are you've crossed paths with the trailblazing Stephy Fung. My journey into the realm of "digital fashion" led me to seek out visionaries, those crafting the very essence of tomorrow's style. When I stumbled upon Stephy Fung, I was not only captivated by her artistry but deeply moved by her unwavering dedication to shaping the future of fashion.

It wasn't merely the stunning artistry that caught my attention, but her relentless commitment to empowering others in the realm of digital fashion — from the inception of an idea, to its manifestation, to navigating the path toward sustainability and success. Stephy's tireless efforts to foster the adoption of digital fashion are truly remarkable. Through live streams on Twitch, a thriving YouTube channel, and a myriad of other social platforms, she tirelessly advocates for her craft.

What truly sets Stephy apart is her ability to inspire without the need for words. She leads by example, showcasing the boundless possibilities of digital fashion through her mesmerizing creations and engaging tutorials. Last year, witnessing her bring one of her digital garments to life in the physical realm was nothing short of awe-inspiring.

The image above showcases a collaborative masterpiece between Stephy and The Fabricant. I had the privilege not only to admire but also to contribute to this piece of art ( co-creation ). The collaboration between Stephy and The Fabricant remains one of my most cherished ones.

For those eager to embark on Stephy's journey, I encourage you to follow her on Twitter for a narrative glimpse into her world and explore her "links" page to delve deeper into her captivating universe. Beyond her undeniable talent, you'll discover a soul as warm and generous as her artistic vision. Enjoy the journey!

Toystore

I had the privilege of connecting with Toystore some time ago, sparked by an exchange of comments on a shared post. Since then, my curiosity has been piqued, driving me to uncover the essence of the music he creates and the person behind it. In the time from our initial encounter to now, I've not only found solace in his music, resonating deeply with it when I need it most, but also discovered a genuine soul—one dedicated to the pursuit of improvement in all aspects of life's discourse.

At the end of last month, Toystore released his first song on Sound, titled "imsorry," and it instantly became a prized possession for me. This "hyperpop reflection" delves into realms of remorse and regret, navigating the urgency of time and the dance of memories with poignant grace. For me, music is an ever-evolving journey; what resonates today might not be tomorrow only to become my favorite the day after tomorrow. There's a unique feeling in collecting a music NFT, especially when it's a lesser-known gem like this. I extend an invitation for you to experience this indescribable feeling firsthand, to truly grasp the essence of my words.

I invite you to join Toystore on his journey, for I believe he possesses a rare talent that has the potential to blossom into something extraordinary. With time, his music and voice may transcend boundaries, touching countless souls along the way. His star is poised to rise higher, and being an early supporter... well, you know how the story often unfolds…

Thank you for reading!

Have a fantastic day!

Eduard🌹