To go along with its newly launched PETA-approved vegan clothing collection called Co-Exist, H&M created a virtual experience within Animal Crossing. The animal-friendly fashion collection is making its debut in the video game world with H&M's first-ever virtual fashion show. At the event, Pascal Brun, H&M’s global sustainability manager, will be in attendance, along with female gamers and influencers who will sport styles from the collection.
In all, 11 pieces from the new collection have been virtually recreated, including puffer jackets, furry neon scarves, leather-like blazers, slogan sweatshirts and colorful mini dresses. This virtual experience can be found on H&M's Looop Island, which can be accessed via Dream code. Gamers who want to outfit their own avatars have the chance to do so via the game's Able Sisters Shop.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Virtual Fashion Shows
- As retailers explore virtual and mixed reality experiences, there is an opportunity to disrupt the traditional fashion industry and create interactive and engaging experiences for consumers.
- Virtual Try-on Experiences
- As consumers increasingly turn to online shopping, there is an opportunity to create virtual try-on experiences that provide a more personalized and interactive shopping experience, potentially reducing returns and increasing customer satisfaction.
- Eco-friendly Fashion
- As sustainability becomes more important to consumers, there is an opportunity to disrupt the fashion industry by creating eco-friendly clothing options that are still fashionable and accessible.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Fashion
- As H&M incorporates virtual experiences into its product launch, there is an opportunity for fashion brands to use technology to engage with consumers and enhance the shopping experience.
- Gaming
- As more brands turn to video games to engage with consumers, there is an opportunity for gaming companies to partner with fashion brands to create virtual experiences, further monetizing the gaming industry.
- Retail
- As traditional retail models are challenged, there is an opportunity for retailers to explore new strategies, such as virtual experiences and eco-friendly product lines, to differentiate themselves and attract customers.
