Renowned fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee has voiced skepticism about the long-term role of artificial intelligence (AI) in creative industries, particularly in the realms of craft and culture. Speaking at the IFCCI Luxury Symposium 2025, he acknowledged AI’s transformative potential in fields such as healthcare, where precision and efficiency are paramount. However, he warned that its application in creative arts could lead to consumer fatigue and eventual disengagement.
Sabyasachi attributed the current challenges in the fashion industry to relentless consumerism and an overwhelming deluge of digital content. He observed that the oversaturation of AI-generated images and marketing materials is creating a sense of disillusionment among consumers. This, he predicted, will drive a resurgence in appreciation for human craftsmanship and authentic artistic expression.
The widespread adoption of AI in creative fields has sparked an ongoing debate about the balance between technological innovation and traditional artistry. While AI tools have revolutionized fashion design, enabling rapid prototyping and data-driven trend forecasting, they have also raised concerns about the erosion of originality and the devaluation of human-led design processes. Sabyasachi contends that AI’s ability to replicate patterns and generate designs may lead to a homogenization of creativity, stripping fashion of its cultural richness and individuality.
Anticipating a shift away from AI-driven design, Sabyasachi urged luxury brands to prepare for a “post-AI future” by prioritizing human expertise and traditional artisanal skills. He stressed the importance of striking a balance between leveraging technological advancements and preserving the heritage of craftsmanship. By doing so, brands can remain relevant and cater to a growing demand for genuinely handcrafted products. He further noted that the luxury sector has always thrived on exclusivity and personal touch, elements that AI struggles to replicate.
One of the key arguments against an overreliance on AI in fashion is its impact on cultural storytelling. Sabyasachi pointed out that fashion is deeply intertwined with history, identity, and personal narratives—elements that machines cannot fully comprehend or replicate. A garment handcrafted by a skilled artisan carries the legacy of generations, reflecting the nuances of a particular region, tradition, or artistic vision. In contrast, AI-generated designs, no matter how sophisticated, lack the emotional depth and cultural authenticity that define true luxury.
The luxury fashion industry has already begun responding to this sentiment. Major fashion houses, including Chanel and Hermès, continue to champion artisanal craftsmanship, investing in training programs for traditional skills such as embroidery, leatherworking, and hand-weaving. These brands recognize that, while AI can enhance efficiency in certain areas, the essence of luxury lies in human artistry and meticulous handcrafting.
Moreover, consumer behavior is evolving in ways that align with Sabyasachi’s predictions. Studies indicate a growing preference for sustainable, handcrafted, and ethically produced goods. The younger generation of luxury buyers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, values authenticity and emotional connection over mass-produced, algorithm-driven trends. This shift suggests that fashion brands that prioritize craftsmanship and human-led design will maintain a competitive edge in the market.
Another crucial aspect of this debate is the role of AI in the business and marketing side of fashion. While Sabyasachi criticizes the overuse of AI-generated content in branding, AI remains an invaluable tool for consumer insights, supply chain optimization, and personalized shopping experiences. The challenge for luxury brands, therefore, is to integrate AI in a way that enhances operational efficiency without compromising artistic integrity.
Looking ahead, the future of AI in fashion will likely be defined by a hybrid approach—where technology supports, rather than replaces, human creativity. AI can assist in reducing waste, predicting consumer preferences, and streamlining production processes, but the heart of fashion will continue to beat with human ingenuity and cultural expression.
Sabyasachi’s call for a “post-AI future” is not a rejection of technology but rather an appeal for mindful innovation. As the fashion industry navigates this transformative period, the enduring value of human craftsmanship will remain a cornerstone of luxury. Brands that successfully merge tradition with modernity, embracing AI as a complement rather than a substitute for human artistry, will be the ones to shape the next era of high fashion.
