GARDE and Tokyo Mode Gakuen Collaborate: Student Designs Implemented in 'Fortnite' with 'DIGITAL FASHION AWARD' Winners Announced

GARDE Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President: Kenji Muro), a company providing total services in interior design, consulting, and coordination, and Tokyo Mode Gakuen, a vocational school that trains professionals in fashion, design, business, interior, graphics, and beauty, have announced the five finalists and the grand prize winner of their industry-academia collaboration project, the 'DIGITAL FASHION AWARD.' This award was launched against the backdrop of industry challenges where, despite the adoption of 3D development tool 'CLO' in the fashion industry, its use remains limited to sample production and cost reduction, failing to connect to new revenue opportunities such as marketing, e-commerce, and metaverse expansion. The project was developed as an implementation-based award that presents a model for utilizing digital fashion as an 'asset,' starting from student creativity. The theme was 'Casual Party on Metaverse.' From 85 entries, 10 were selected for digital modeling using 'CLO.' Following a public vote at a real-world event, the top 5 works were selected. These works were implemented in 'Fortnite,' a global online game operated by Epic Games, and released as a participatory fashion event. After a final review by eight companies involved in promoting digital fashion, the grand prize winner was announced.