Hair, throughout human history, has been more than just a biological feature. It is a form of self-expression, a means of communication, and an integral part of our identity. As we trace back to ancient Egyptian civilizations, where wigs were used to symbolize wealth and status, and move forward to our modern times where hairstyles reflect political and social movements, hair remains a crucial aspect of our culture.
With the steady advancement of AI, we are entering a new era of cultural evolution that includes changes in hair trends and styles. Hamburg-based architect and designer, Pouria Babakhani, has accepted the intriguing challenge of visualizing the future of hair in the age of artificial intelligence. Using a text-to-image program, Midjourney, he has devised futuristic hair designs inspired by parametric design, futurism, surrealism, and mathematical art.
Pouria’s work encompasses a wide array of hair designs for different ethnic, age, and gender groups. This approach underscores the importance of diversity and inclusivity when employing AI. Hair design, as a case study to examine the capabilities of AI design software, brings to light the potential benefits and challenges of using AI in defining fashion trends.
AI brings to the table the possibility of generating unique hair trends that cater to individual needs and preferences. It offers a wider range of options for personal expression through hair, impacting our sense of identity. Moreover, AI can benefit society by introducing a diverse spectrum of innovative hair trends that reflect our varied humanity. Imagine AI-assisted robots crafting geometrically complex braids that humans might find challenging to create.
However, it is equally important to consider the potential pitfalls of using AI in hair design. There lies a risk of AI-generated trends discriminating against certain groups or ethnicities. We believe in the necessity of employing AI responsibly to ensure that the hair trends it generates are inclusive and do not perpetuate harmful stereotypes or biases. As designer Vivienne Westwood rightly said, “Fashion should be a form of escapism and not a form of imprisonment”. AI undoubtedly holds the potential to revolutionize the world of hair and fashion, but it is our collective responsibility to ensure its use is ethical and inclusive.