Students displayed their collections, all inspired by the theme ‘AI is Contagious’
Pearl Academy, in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), unveiled an iteration of its event, ‘First Cut’ at the grand finale of Lakmé Fashion Week, held on 17 March 2024, at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. This collaboration offered a platform for budding fashion designers to explore the intersection of technology, consciousness and sustainability.
This platform helped in showcasing the debut collections of final-year fashion design students, providing them with a stage to introduce their creative endeavours to the global design community.
With each iteration, ‘First Cut’ has pushed the boundaries of traditional fashion shows, with each event telling a story in three acts. Previous editions have delved into pressing global issues such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Turkey earthquake and even the historic moon landing. In its latest rendition, the spotlight was cast on Artificial Intelligence (AI), a force reshaping contemporary society with both fascination and apprehension.
Showcased alongside some of India’s leading designers, students from Pearl Academy campuses across the country displayed their collections, all inspired by the theme ‘AI is Contagious’. The narrative unfolded across three acts, addressing the dual nature of AI.
The first act captured the anxieties and uncertainties surrounding AI’s potential to displace traditional professions. It delved into the existential questions of automation, pondering its implications on employment and the essence of human existence.
Transitioning to a more optimistic tone, the second act celebrated AI’s integration into the identity of Generation Z. In a testament to the rapid assimilation of technology, AI has seamlessly become an intrinsic aspect of the lives of today’s youth. From personalised recommendations to intuitive interfaces, Gen Z embraces AI, making it a defining facet of their cultural ethos.
Contrasting the high-tech exploration of AI, the 2024 showcase underscored Generation Z’s fervent commitment to sustainability. The show honoured the eco-conscious mindset prevalent among this demographic, emphasising their discerning approach towards consumption. By juxtaposing technology with sustainability, the event underscored the potential for symbiotic coexistence between innovation and environmental stewardship.
