Exploring the Abilities of 3D Printing and its Viability for Consumption in the Fashion Industry

With the ever-evolving state of today's technology, designers and retailers in the apparel industry are seeking out new technological methods that have the capacity to revolutionize and individualize their brand, as well as meet consumer needs and preferences. An emerging technology is 3D printing, which utilizes computer aided technology and a variety of filaments to construct an object. Though 3D printing technology offers the ability for rapid prototyping, a condensed supply chain, and a sustainable additive manufacturing process, there is question as to whether or not consumers are ready for 3D printed clothing to enter their wardrobes. The purpose of this study was to construct a 3D printed garment and measure consumer response to the application of this technology in ready-to-wear clothing. The results of this research indicate that a major transformation in ready-to-wear style is feasible and beneficial to the apparel industry because of 3D printing.