When real and virtual fashion meet: digital models and influencers
In recent years, we have witnessed the growing presence of technology in the fashion industry. NFTs have been gaining prominence with brands such as Lacoste or Laagam, fashion collections have been designed for video games and even a Fashion Week has been created in the metaverse. But what we are going to talk about today is a trend that is on everyone’s lips and that has both followers and opponents. We are talking about digital models, figures generated by artificial intelligence that have revolutionised the way in which brands promote their products.
Lil Miquela and Imma digital models
In the midst of a constantly evolving digital age, the fashion industry has found a new way to communicate. Digital models or “digital influencers” have arrived to challenge established paradigms. With their ability to break creative barriers and reach global audiences, these models are changing the way we perceive and experience fashion.
A new chapter in fashion: Zlu the influencer ally
And who are these new influencers and digital models opening a new chapter in the fashion world? Meet Zlu, the coolest digital model alien in Paris. What makes Zlu different from other digital models is her unique appearance. While the appearance of some like Miquela(@lilmiquela), Imma(@imma.gram) or Shudu(@shudu.gram) are more similar to the human form, Zlu represents the imagination of its creator Ilian Gazut which translates into an avant-garde blue alien.
The influencer Zlu Alien in collaboration with Karl Lagerfeld and with an outfit from the Paris subway.
Zlu first appeared on social media in April 2022. A year and a half later he has 727.9K followers on TikTok(@iam_zlu) and 124K on Instagram(@iam_zlu). This peculiar character has been created entirely by computer by the company Zut Studio and has attracted the attention of many brands such as Fila, Pull&Bear, Swarovski or Karl Lagerfeld who have wanted to collaborate with him. Not only making use of Zlu in social networks or the metatarsus, but they can also count on his services in shop windows, displays or fashion shows.
Here’s why Zlu has generated so much buzz
One of the reasons why Zlu has gained such a following is because of his uniqueness and novelty due to the fact that his character generates attention and curiosity.
The universality that an alien character generates is an appeal to a global audience, freeing up the cultural references and prejudices that might be associated with humans.
Spectacularity: as a giant, he generates curiosity and speculation.
Thanks to his unique personality and interests, as an influencer, Zlu’s main focus is to create engaging, creative and entertaining content with the aim of championing diversity in the world of fashion, art and lifestyle.
While Zlu’s arrival on Earth has caused a sensation in the media and pop culture, the digital model has sparked discussions and debates about identity, diversity and inclusion. Some people see Zlu as a symbol of alienation and fear of the unknown, while others embrace it as a role model. Undoubtedly, the connection between the virtual and the real universe is an increasingly latent evidence in the fashion industry, and it seems that this ally is here to stay.
Images courtesy of the Instagram accounts mentioned above.
