Pedagogy and Professional Development

Navigating the Future: Essential Skills for Fashion Graduates in the Era of AI

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Abstract

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence and advanced digital tools is reshaping the competencies expected of new graduates entering the fashion industry. This study analyzes 2,892 entry-level job postings from 2025 to identify the evolving knowledge, skills, and technological proficiencies required of apparel design and merchandising professionals. Guided by the ITAA meta-goals and TAPAC accreditation standards, the analysis highlights continued demand for foundational competencies, such as design principles, textile knowledge, product development, and forecasting, while revealing a growing emphasis on software proficiency, 3D design tools, and emerging AI-related skills. Soft skills including collaboration, communication, global competence, and ethical decision-making remain central to workforce readiness. By mapping current industry expectations, this research provides educators and administrators with actionable insights for aligning curricula with workforce needs. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating technological and AI competencies to prepare fashion graduates for an increasingly data-driven, digitally mediated professional landscape.

Keywords: fashion education industry competencies

How to Cite:

Dorie, A., (2025) “Navigating the Future: Essential Skills for Fashion Graduates in the Era of AI”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21900