A groundbreaking event at Shanghai Fashion Week featured a humanoid robot and its robotic dog walking the runway, sparking debate on technology’s role in fashion.
At the recent Shanghai Fashion Week, a groundbreaking event took place that blended technology and fashion in an unprecedented manner. The NMTG fashion brand showcased a unique collection featuring not only human models but also a humanoid robot and its robotic dog, marking the first instance of a robot walking the runway in a live fashion show. This notable occurrence reflects the fashion industry’s evolving interaction with advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence.
The humanoid robot, dubbed Unitree G1 and created by Unitree Robotics, exhibited remarkable strides as it participated in the catwalk. Dressed in a metallic bodice adorned with maroon and cream fringes, the robot’s attire drew attention for its design that animatedly complemented its mechanical movements. Accompanying the humanoid was a robotic dog, draped in a frilly lace fabric, adding to the overall futuristic aesthetic of the presentation.
The event, however, elicited a mixed response from spectators and social media users alike. While some observers appreciated the innovation, others expressed discomfort and skepticism about the implications of robots taking on roles traditionally held by humans in the fashion industry. Comments flooded in, with one user jesting about the potential job loss for human models, stating, “Are the models gonna lose their job too?” Another comment highlighted the robot’s gait, comparing it humorously to that of a person who had just completed a long horse ride. Additionally, a remark noted that the robot had yet to master the finesse of established supermodels, questioning, “Obviously hasn’t mastered the Gisele Bundchen walk yet!”
This reaction underscores the complexity of introducing advanced technology into a field that has historically celebrated human artistry and expression. Although this was indeed the first time a humanoid robot took a dominant role on the runway, earlier instances of robotic involvement in fashion shows have occurred. In March of this year, supermodel Yasmin Wijnaldum performed interactively alongside Ameca, one of the world’s most advanced humanoid robots, during the Giuseppe Di Morabito show.
The fusion of robotics and fashion seen at Shanghai Fashion Week may signal a new frontier in how designers and brands explore the capabilities of technology. As the fashion world continues to experiment with such innovations, the conversation surrounding the role of robots in creative fields seems poised to grow even more complex.
Source: Noah Wire Services
