As we face global challenges like climate change adaptation, disaster response, and workplace safety, design can’t be confined to a single area of expertise. Solutions to these complex problems require a fusion of knowledge from various disciplines such as fashion design, industrial design, technology, electronics, psychology, social sciences, and technical textiles. This multidisciplinary approach is essential to develop practical, sustainable, and economically viable solutions.

Hence, DFAI (Design Fusion AI) was established with a vision to develop innovative products and services that address these global challenges.

Merging Disciplines for Innovative Solutions

My journey began in Fashion Technology and Apparel Production, where I honed my skills in traditional fashion design and garment manufacturing. I had the privilege of working with prestigious manufacturing companies across India, Egypt, and the UK, developing garments for renowned brands like Zara, Levi’s, Victoria’s Secret, Marks & Spencer, Buffalo, and Maggie Jeans. While this experience enriched my technical expertise, it did not fully satisfy my passion for creating impactful designs.

During my Masters in Fashion Innovation at the Manchester Metropolitan University, I discovered the field of Functional Apparel. I worked on projects such as sensory garments for children with autism, wearable shelters for Syrian refugees, and anti-ligature clothing for inmates in the UK. These projects required a deep understanding of specific customer needs and collaboration with experts in design, illustration, psychology, marketing, and textiles. The success of these projects highlighted the importance of a transdisciplinary approach to design.

My PhD project focused on designing a one-size-fits-all lifejacket for flood-affected people in India. This endeavour combined my expertise in traditional fashion techniques with new skills in 3D printing, laser cutting, foam moulding, anthropology, and usability testing methods. This project reinforced my belief in the power of integrating diverse disciplines to solve real-world problems.

A Journey of Impactful Design and Technological Integration

Currently, I am developing specialized products for emergency responders, law enforcement personnel, firefighters, business professionals, inmates, and food industry staff. My most recent exploration involves leveraging AI tools such as ChatGPT, DALL-E, Leonardo-AI, and Co-Pilot for design, illustration, market research, marketing, user-needs analysis, product testing, and quality manual development. These AI tools have significantly enhanced the speed, quality, and efficiency of my work.

I envision incorporating AI into functional apparel, for example embedding generative AI into sensors for garments used by firefighters and medical personnel. This requires collaboration between designers from various fields to create truly innovative and functional apparel.

I am excited about the future of functional apparel design and its potential to improve the lives of people with special needs, enhance the performance of athletes, and support the duties of law enforcement personnel and firefighters. DFAI is dedicated to driving this innovation and making a meaningful impact on society.