This week, retailers tapped technology to stay agile, ensured measures to reduce labor abuse and maintained operations amid political turmoil.
RFID tags have been around for years, but recently the fashion sector has used more of this tech to combat counterfeits and heighten store experiences. (Engadget)
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India’s economic growth could be attributed to some negative factors, including the rampant use of child labor in several industries. Organizations in India, including Child Rights and You, are working to support children from low-income families and raise awareness worldwide. (The Washington Post)
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What’s considered sustainable apparel may not be entirely sustainable. The industry is missing universal standards on what it means to truly be sustainable and ethical—causing marketing fluff to hide potential flaws in their supply chains and keep consumers in the dark. (The Washington Post)
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Turkey may be going through political turmoil, but the nation’s fashion scene isn’t giving up. Local brands, including Dice Kayek and Sama Danesh, are staying true to their roots and continuing operations despite the conflict. (The New York Times)
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Unlike competitors, Barney’s isn’t resorting to discounts during luxury’s slump. Barney’s CEO Daniella Vitale says the luxury retailer is staying afloat with exclusive merchandise and a strong e-commerce presence. (Fortune)
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Hollister is making a comeback—the brand’s new look includes less of its classic logos, new store formats and more reliance on trending fashion items, including distressed denim. (Bloomberg)
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Alibaba is coming for brick-and-mortar retail. The e-commerce giant invested as much as $8 billion in Chinese stores over the past two years—opening supermarkets in the nation’s major cities and incorporating technology at brick-and-mortar locations nationwide. (Forbes)
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Keeping up with the latest fashion trends is tedious, but AI could help. Experts say the future of fashion could be tech innovators, as designers tap companies, like IBM, to analyze consumer behavior and predict apparel changes each season. (Quartz)
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