On October 24, 2024, we had our EFHA workshop on “3D Digitisation Practices in Fashion Heritage.” Organised in collaboration with the Centro di Ricerca Gianfranco Ferré and the Missoni Archive, this intensive gathering offered a deep dive into the transformative potential of 3D technology for preserving and sharing fashion heritage. Featuring leading voices in fashion archives, museums, and digital innovation, the workshop highlighted methodologies, case studies, and emerging technologies that are shaping the field of cultural heritage.
Federica Vacca from the Centro di Ricerca Gianfranco Ferré opened the workshop by framing the pressing need for innovation in heritage preservation. As fashion is inherently ephemeral, with fabric and form vulnerable to the passage of time, they emphasised how 3D digitization serves not just as a documentation tool but as a conduit for future cultural engagement. By digitising complex garments, fashion heritage can be preserved, explored, and even reinterpreted across generations and geographies.
Federica Vacca, alongside Angelica Vandi and Greta Rizzi, delved into the sophisticated 3D digitization practices at the Gianfranco Ferré Archive. Known for his architectural approach to fashion, Ferré’s work is an ideal candidate for 3D digitization, as it challenges technology to capture intricate details—such as fabric structure, volume, and movement—that define his designs. Their digitization efforts have enabled Ferré’s masterpieces to transcend physical limitations, providing immersive access to his legacy. This process also involves resolving technical challenges specific to fabric dynamics, ensuring that the digital replicas maintain the tactile and visual fidelity of the originals.