Sacha Brown: Is AI the Future of Fashion Innovation?

In this episode, CFDA Senior Director of Professional Development and Innovation, Sacha Brown, joins FASHIONPHILE Founder & President Sarah Davis to unbox the intersection of technology, sustainable craftsmanship, and the next generation of American design talent.  Drawing on her 16-year career at the Council of Fashion Designers of America, Sacha breaks down her transition from theatre in Toronto to fashion in New York City and how costume design shapes personal identity. She shares candid insight into the “medical residency” phase young designers go through, the CFDA Fashion Incubator, and why collaboration over gatekeeping is essential for the future of fashion. From preserving traditional artisan skills in NYC’s Garment District to using AI as an equalizer for small brands, Sacha reveals how tech empowers creators to focus on their craft while driving transparency and circularity across the industry.  The conversation delves into digital product passports, the power of in-person retail experiences, and why circularity isn't just a trend but a necessary foundation for modern luxury businesses.