How do virtual models influence luxury brand sales?
At a time when artificial intelligence is transforming all sectors, luxury fashion is no exception to this revolution. AI virtual mannequins - photorealistic digital avatars created by computer - are now emerging as powerful tools for engaging, seducing and converting consumers.
Artcare, leader in the creation of virtual mannequins and immersive experiences in AI mode, observes on a daily basis the growing impact of these digital figures in e-commerce and marketing strategies. Their adoption is no longer just a fad: it is now a vector of commercial performance.
1. A lever for engagement on social networks
Virtual models create an immediate curiosity effect, with engagement performances that rival - or even surpass - those of human influencers.
Iconic IA model Lil Miquela has 2.6M Instagram followers and an engagement rate of over 3%, according to HypeAuditor, nearly 3 times the luxury sector average.
His campaign with Prada during Milan Fashion Week generated over 50,000 likes in 48 hours, without any physical presence.
Avatars like Noonoouri have collaborated with Valentino, Balenciaga and Dior, generating up to 2.3 million organic impressions.
For brands, these avatars offer a unique ability to capture the attention of an ultra-connected digital native audience, hungry for innovative, immersive content.
2. Total control of brand image
Unlike human influencers, virtual models enable luxury brands to control every aspect of the message conveyed: speech, appearance, tone, values. There's no risk of controversy, bad posture or bad buzz.
Balmain has launched its "Virtual Army" (Shudu, Margot, Zhi), three avatars created to embody the house's aesthetic and values. No detail is left to chance.
A Deloitte study (2023) shows that 65% of luxury marketers place visual consistency as a top priority in their campaigns.
3. Cost reduction and production flexibility
One of the most tangible arguments for brands is that virtual mannequins cost less and are more flexible.
A campaign with a physical model (for a luxury brand like Louis-Vuitton) costs between €80,000 and €200,000, including shooting, logistics, casting and post-production.
A digital campaign with an AI mannequin costs between €7,000 and €15,000 at Artcare - an average saving of 70%.
BMW' s campaign with Lil Miquela cost $9,000 and achieved a click-through rate 39% higher than traditional campaigns.
Avatars are also available 24/7, with no geographical, legal or health constraints.
4. Inclusiveness, diversity and universality
AI models enable brands to meet rising expectations of representation. Gen Z and Millennials want to see faces that look like them - or that transcend traditional beauty standards.
Imma, a Japanese AI model, has won over brands such as Nike, Dior and IKEA Japan, embodying a local, modern and inclusive visual identity.
5. Innovative positioning to generate buzz
Virtual mannequins bring an immediate "wow" effect, promoting the brand as avant-garde and creative.
Balenciaga collaborated with Noonoouri on a TikTok campaign in 2023, which generated 18 million views in 72 hours.
On Zepeto, a digital avatar platform, brands such as Gucci and Ralph Lauren generated over 2 billion interactions in 2022.
Brands that include these figures in their storytelling benefit from strong media buzz, and position themselves at the vanguard of e-commerce AI fashion.
6. Immersive experiences for e-commerce
Beyond visual campaigns, AI mannequins are integrated into interactive customer experiences:
Virtual try it on: allow users to try on an outfit on an avatar that looks just like them.
3D Lookbooks: model animation in immersive virtual environments.
Enriched product data sheets: show movements and textures on AI mannequins directly in the e-shop.
Conclusion: an essential growth tool
AI virtual mannequins are not just a technological gadget: they embody a new way of conceiving fashion, distributing it and selling it. Thanks to them, luxury brands can :
Gain visibility and commitment,
Reduce production costs,
Reinforce their innovative image,
And above all: increase sales in an ultra-competitive digital environment.
Raising your brand image
Enhance your brand image with customized virtual mannequins At Artcare, we combine technology and visual excellence to create unique virtual mannequins tailored to your world. Offer your brand high-precision imaging, true to its DNA, without logistical constraints or compromises on aesthetics and innovation. Discover a new approach to brand content and push back the boundaries of creativity.
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