The emergence of generative AI and its growing influence across various industries has sparked concerns about job security. Many experts have been discussing how this technology, with its ability to efficiently automate tasks, may potentially replace human roles in coding, graphic design, research analysis, fashion patternmaking, modeling, and even writing.
Fashion, in particular, has witnessed the power of generative AI, which can simulate human intelligence and replace professionals in certain tasks. The fear of job losses and the prospect of being replaced by AI-powered systems have raised significant worries. However, recent insights suggest that generative AI might not be a harbinger of job apocalypse but rather an entry into a new world of work.
According to a recent report from McKinsey & Company, while generative AI and automation may result in some job losses, even job categories highly exposed to generative AI could continue to create jobs until 2030. This indicates that even roles vulnerable to AI impact, such as clerical jobs, may persist.
Historically, technological advancements have led to disruption but have also fueled economic growth and employment opportunities. In the early stages of generative AI development, human support remains crucial, and AI cannot function effectively without it. Instead of an AI-dominated workforce, the future is likely to involve upskilling, changes in job scopes, and a collaborative approach between humans and AI.
The “Human-in-the-Loop” Model
Experts suggest that the “human-in-the-loop” model, which combines AI capabilities with human oversight and feedback, is essential for the success of AI. This approach ensures that human influence remains a core component of AI development and implementation.
In fashion, where aesthetics and human sensibilities are paramount, embracing efficiency, cost-cutting, and automation while retaining a human touch is crucial. While the fashion industry has been hesitant to adopt new technology in the past, the setbacks caused by avoiding e-commerce serve as a cautionary tale. Companies like Stitchfix have successfully integrated AI with human expertise to provide customers with personalized shopping experiences, setting an example for the industry.
The Importance of Safety Mechanisms
Ensuring the safe and responsible use of AI in fashion is vital. AI chatbots and generative AI models have occasionally exhibited inappropriate behavior and generated incorrect information. To prevent such issues, safety mechanisms must be in place, making human oversight crucial.
A human in the loop can perform various roles, including system training and validation, data labeling, and content moderation. This creates a demand for subject matter experts, reviewers, assistants, and data scientists with a deep understanding of fashion to ensure responsible and unbiased AI development and deployment.
Future Jobs in Fashion
Looking ahead, new roles may emerge in the fashion industry, such as “AI fashion designer,” especially as initiatives like AI Fashion Week gain traction. However, legal considerations related to intellectual property may need to catch up with AI advancements.
AI ethics officers and specialists are likely to be sought after by fashion houses and designers to navigate the complexities of AI implementation, intellectual property, and copyright issues. Developing internal policies, training programs, licensing agreements, and building trust will be essential steps in integrating AI into the fashion industry.
Despite challenges, experts believe that the fashion industry should embrace AI rather than shy away from it, as competitors are likely to leverage AI’s potential for innovation and efficiency. The evolving job landscape may also include roles like “avatar manager” as digital models and generative AI models become increasingly prevalent.
In conclusion, while generative AI may transform the fashion industry, it is not necessarily a threat to jobs. Instead, it offers an opportunity for collaboration between human creativity and AI innovation, shaping a new era of fashion.
