INARA: The World's First Gen AI-Designed VR Fashion Show

On August 24, 2024, technology and creativity joined together at the IEEE Young Engineering Students Summit (YESS) 2024 in Kochi, India. The innovative event, INARA, debuted as the first-ever generative AI-powered VR fashion show, supported by an Emerging Technology Grant from the IEEE Computer Society (CS).

The inaugural show provided a peek into fashion’s future by merging generative AI, broadcast virtual reality, and cutting-edge technology into a captivating virtual runway experience. With the power of advanced machine learning and motion capture technology, participants in INARA brought digital fashion to life.

Pioneering Technology and Unparalleled Precision

INARA showcased how advanced machine learning and motion capture could advance fashion without the need for traditional hardware like sensors or motion capture suits. This seamless integration highlighted the evolving synergy between AI and creative industries.

“I’ve always been fascinated by how AI tools can make life easier and boost creativity,” said project lead Vaishakh Suresh, IEEE CS Kerala. “Fashion has been something I’ve loved for a long time…this project was born out of that excitement. I wanted to show how AI could open doors in the fashion industry, making it possible for anyone to create unique, breathtaking designs—even if they’ve never sketched or sewn. It’s been amazing to see how technology can turn dreams into reality.”

Event highlights

INARA’s main objective was to showcase the application of generative AI in the fashion industry, says Suresh. “We wanted people to realize the importance of prompt engineering, and how their imagination, along with their prompts, can lead to wonderful creations by leveraging the power of GenAI.”

258 participants joined in the event, comprising a total of 68 teams; each team consisted of three to five individuals. 25 teams were selected for the second round; out of these, ten teams were selected as finalists and were given the opportunity to present their 3-D designs in the finals.

In the final rounds, metahumans, dressed in AI-designed costumes, walked the runway, perfectly mirroring real-life models in real-time. In addition, real-time animation featured live dance performances with digital 3-D characters flawlessly replicating human movements.

• The winning team consisted of Sitalalakshmi B, Aysha Nassar, Muhsina Nazar, and AnnGrace Francis of Viswajyothi College of Engineering and Technology.
• The second prize was won by Mohammed Shiraz B, Shereen Rafi, and Atul Krishna of Government College of Engineering Kannur.
• The third prize was won by Abhiram R, Alexander K Ashok, and Muhammed Nidal N of Government Engineering College Kozhikode.

"Seeing my AI-generated design come to life in augmented reality was absolutely magical! It felt like watching my imagination take shape right in front of me. INARA showed me that technology isn't just about innovation—it's a whole new canvas for creativity,” said Rafi, who studies at the Government College of Engineering in Kannur.

Key learnings

As part of the Summit, participants were able to gain firsthand insight into the potential of AI-driven design and better understand how AI can contribute to creative fields. Volunteers led the organization of complex logistics, gaining practical experience in executing a high-tech event.

Beyond mentorship, the event provided students with practical exposure to advanced technologies, empowered their creativity, and inspired interdisciplinary exploration at the intersection of technology, art, and fashion.

In sum, INARA set a precedent for AI-driven fashion, motivating participants to explore similar innovative applications of technology, explained Suresh.

“I would like for Gen AI fashion shows to happen annually in collaboration with leaders in the fashion industry. These events could be branded as GenAI fashion hackathons, where winners are given the opportunity to have their designs brought to life by partnering companies. The resulting creations could then be sold in the market, with a share of the sales royalties awarded to the winners,” he added.

Next steps

Future iterations of the Summit will retain key elements like generative AI-driven design and the immersive VR runway experience, which highlight technology's transformative impact on fashion.

To enhance inclusivity and sustainability, organizers plan to integrate global participation through remote VR showcases and emphasize eco-friendly design practices. Complementary workshops on AI, VR, and sustainability will also be introduced to engage tech enthusiasts and creators.

"Organizing INARA was an unforgettable journey. Watching participants light up as they explored AI-driven fashion made me realize just how seamlessly technology and art can blend. It’s inspired me to reimagine how we use tech to tell stories and create beauty,” said Aryasree K, Chair, IEEE SB, Government College of Engineering Kannur, who volunteered at the event.