Fashion technology is evolving rapidly, and there is no surprise in that. The pandemic has explicitly propelled businesses to move towards digital transformation, and technology has become more of a necessity now than before—no wonder the industry is witnessing the emergence of virtual models and influencers.
These images that are AI-generated are helping people promote their products and content without having to depend on any agency. Lil Miquela, for example, from LA, is creating ripples on social media as a robot who is also working as an influencer.
Do Virtual Models Make Great Marketing Strategies?
Virtual influencers are essential to your marketing strategy as they can get you more engagement than usual influencers. Research has also revealed that their interactions with humans are slowly changing, and businesses change using social media channels. However, what’s interesting is that men have specifically shown more interest in speaking to these digital humans than women.
Social Comparison
One of the worst things social media could face because of virtual models is the feeling of social comparison. Because of apps like Instagram, social comparison is on the rise, which could lead to declining mental health and feelings of self-worth. Women usually face this because they idealize specific parameters to meet beauty standards, which also negatively influences consumers who emulate those standards.
Transparency
Because of technology rising, business owners can easily find the right model suitable for their market. But with authenticity slowly becoming a huge concern, one can feel that these virtual models are taking it too far. For example, virtual models like Shudo Gramm create ripples online with their image as Barbie dolls. Humans know they are just dolls, but how would children perceive them? That’s something to think about. Maintaining transparency in the use of virtual models is essential as technology advances. While these virtual models may be captivating, it’s crucial to consider the potential impact on children’s perceptions, as they may not always distinguish between virtual characters and reality, raising important questions about the influence of such images on young minds.
What Do Studies Have To Stay About?
Recent studies have also said that getting exposure to dolls at a very early age causes young girls to idealize unrealistic body times, which could also lead to eating disorders and cycling. So, although toy models are not that bad, they are now made to appear like dolls, which makes one question whether they are real.
Are They Setting The Wrong Example?
Virtual models could set the wrong standards if their appearances are misused. Any digital fashion owner must remember that robots must emulate humans and reflect fundamental values like empathy, trust, and care. And one of the best ways to do that is by becoming relatable. Creating a kind of inclusivity by adding visible stretch marks for pregnancy shoots or showing plus-sized women wearing the trendiest outfits can promote a feeling of self-acceptance, thereby boosting self-esteem. By incorporating diverse and authentic representations in the realm of virtual models, we not only avoid setting unrealistic standards but also celebrate the beauty of individuality. Embracing real-life imperfections and showcasing a wide range of body types can help foster a sense of empowerment and acceptance among audiences.
To summarize, we can say that it’s essential for a digital fashion company at this time to embrace fresh new technologies like virtual influencers that will add more value to their businesses. However, they should be careful not to forget ethics and ensure all policies are built on trust and authenticity. If you want to curate your feed, Instagram is the best platform to give you the correct exposure. But be careful not to promote the wrong beauty standards.
And if you are looking for a brand that can solve all your concerns related to digital fashion, reach out to House of Fashion. Firm believers in using immersive experiences in fashion, this group of experts provides you with all the fashion experiences you need to stay on top of your game. From AR & VR digital wearables to virtual experiences and tech experiences, they will give your brand an ultimate lift. Want to know more about them? Get in touch today.
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