Mana Fashion Services was proud to participate in Première Vision New York, one of the fashion industry’s leading international textile and sourcing events, where Matilda Kalaveshi, Head of Fashion at Mana Fashion Services, spoke on the panel “AI-Ready Fashion: Designing, Ranking, and Selling in the New Search Era.”

Joining Julie Aurélie Evans, Founder and Fashion Insights Director of Sustalytics, the session 

explored Fall/Winter 2027 trends, the commercial opportunities shaping the industry, and how brands can prepare for a future where AI is becoming a key part of product discovery, sourcing, and purchasing decisions.

As AI rapidly changes how buyers search for products, suppliers, and manufacturing partners, the discussion highlighted practical ways fashion businesses can improve their visibility while strengthening their digital presence.

Matilda’s Five Key Takeaways

1. AI is already influencing sourcing.

Today’s buyers are increasingly using AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini to discover fabric suppliers, manufacturers, and fashion brands. If a company’s products, services, and expertise are not presented in a way AI systems can understand, they risk being overlooked before a conversation even begins.

2. It’s not about where you show up – it’s about how.

Simply appearing online is no longer enough. AI-powered search favors businesses that provide structured, detailed information such as fabric compositions, certifications, minimum order quantities (MOQs), lead times, and product specifications. The more complete and organized the information, the easier it is for AI to recommend the right supplier or product.

3. Early adoption creates a competitive advantage.

Like the early days of search engine optimization and social media, businesses that begin optimizing for AI-driven search today have an opportunity to establish visibility before the space becomes increasingly competitive.

4. AI supports expertise; it doesn’t replace it.

While artificial intelligence can streamline research, writing, and administrative tasks, the relationships, creativity, strategic thinking, and industry expertise that drive fashion remain uniquely human. AI serves as a tool that allows professionals to spend more time on high-value work.

5. Getting started is more accessible than you think. 

Preparing for AI-powered commerce does not require advanced technical knowledge or significant investment. Small, practical improvements – such as organizing product information, improving website content, and experimenting with AI tools – can help businesses begin adapting today.

As the fashion industry continues to evolve, conversations like those at Première Vision New York reinforce the importance of combining technology with a strong business strategy. At Mana Fashion Services, helping international fashion brands and textile companies enter and grow within the U.S. market means staying ahead of industry shifts while providing the guidance businesses need to succeed.

Through global partnerships, showroom services, market-entry support, and ongoing industry education, Mana Fashion Services continues to help brands navigate the changing landscape of fashion, sourcing, and digital commerce.