Why 3D Still Matters: Reflections from the CLO3D User Summit in Munich
Updated: Aug 14
Plus what’s new (and coming soon) in CLO3D
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the CLO User Summit in Munich. This event brought together brands, vendors, educators, and innovators. They are all pushing the boundaries of what's possible with 3D design technology in the fashion industry.
With the current buzz around AI, it's easy to think that 3D tools are becoming outdated or less relevant. However, this summit made one thing crystal clear:
AI isn’t replacing 3D; it’s enabling it.
AI vs 3D? Let’s change the conversation
One of the biggest takeaways from the event was that 3D is not in competition with AI. In fact, it makes AI in fashion usable and valuable.
3D design tools like CLO3D provide access to rich, accurate data. This data can be used across the entire product lifecycle. From initial concepting and range-building to supply chain coordination, e-commerce, and marketing, 3D allows for precise design. It helps simulate fit, visualize fabrics, and produce assets that can be reused.
Generative AI has a place in early ideation. However, when it comes to accuracy, fit, fabrication, and downstream use, 3D still delivers the goods.
What’s new (and coming soon) in CLO3D?
CLO shared several exciting updates and sneak peeks during the event. Here are a few things to look out for:
AI Studio – a powerful yet accessible tool for quick visual ideation and concept development.
Soft Hair Simulation – more realistic avatar customization for better visual communication.
Ripping & Tearing Simulation – useful for sportswear, distressed garments, or impact testing.
Smart automation behind the scenes – improvements that streamline repetitive tasks without removing creative control.
Faster library updates and more consistent fabric mapping.
Improved asset integration – with tools like Swatchbook and potential future integrations with platforms like Miro.
What stood out to me most was how CLO is integrating AI in ways that support the creative process, rather than replace it.
It’s about people, not just tools
A highlight for me was hearing Sean Barbour and Fritz Rometsch share the H&M 3D journey. It wasn’t just about success stories. They also discussed what didn’t work and what they learned from it.
This kind of honesty is crucial. It reminded me that digital transformation isn’t a flick of a switch. It’s a human journey, full of experimentation, learning, and adaptation.
Strict rules and rigid best practice expectations often kill creativity and slow progress. Instead, we need to support people in exploring what works for their teams, product types, and workflows.
Education must be in the room
One thing I feel strongly about is that education must be involved in these conversations.
We’re not just training the next generation of designers. We’re leading research, building workflows, testing new tools, and helping shape the future of fashion. If education isn’t in the room, the gap between vision and reality widens.
It was brilliant to connect with inspiring educators and researchers, including Laura Jane Fish, Kyra Gibson, Gabrielle Shiner-Hill, Daniela Nascimento, Victoria Vasquez Pecile, Yasmin Koppe, Carles López, and Penelope Norman. The work they’re doing is essential.
We need more decision-makers in the room too
Another key takeaway was the importance of bringing non-CLO users into these spaces.
I’m talking about heads of product, merchandising, sourcing, and strategy. These individuals may not use the software daily, but they hold the power to invest in and scale digital adoption.
These are the people who need to see what’s possible. They need to hear real-life case studies and challenges to understand the value of what their teams are trying to achieve.
Final thoughts
This event reminded me of the importance of stepping out of our silos. Sometimes we need the echo chamber to validate our thoughts. Other times, we need to be challenged by new ideas, new people, and new ways of working.
Huge thanks to Fernanda Bernardi and the whole CLO Virtual Fashion team for creating a space that brought together industry, education, and innovation.
A special shout-out goes to Holly New and Liwia Labuz, the Rising Talent Award winners. Your work is a clear sign that the future of digital fashion is in good hands.
Curious about how any of this affects what you do?
We work with brands, educators, and individuals to help bridge the gap between digital tools like CLO3D and real-world adoption. Whether you're just getting started or need help scaling, we'd love to support you.
Book a call below or email erica@cadforfashion.co.uk and let's have a chat!
Erica & the CAD for Fashion Team x
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