Fashion inspiration and technology: virtual reality in an experimental apparel design classroom

This study aimed to understand how apparel design students perceived virtual reality (VR) technology as a source of inspiration for garment design. Students interacted with VR technology as a part of an experimental apparel design project in an upper-level university course. Open-ended questionnaires, documentation, and reflections provided data for the study. A majority of the students indicated VR technology was beneficial as inspiration, and students said they would recommend VR use in future classes. After participating in this study, students expressed interest in exploring other interactive apps in future coursework that could allow students to draft patterns and design in VR. Student comments about interactions with the technology were useful and will inform future curriculum development. Little research has been published using VR in university apparel design classrooms, and this study serves as a starting point to gauge future interest in VR as a part of the apparel design process.