Why Privacy Matters: Fashion as a Shield in a World of Machines

Rachele Didero, CEO and Co-Founder of Cap_able, explores the critical issue of privacy in the age of AI-driven surveillance. In this captivating talk, she addresses the challenges posed by facial recognition technology and how individuals are increasingly unable to opt out of being monitored in a hyper-connected world.

Drawing from her groundbreaking work at the intersection of fashion, technology, and ethics, Rachele shares the story behind Cap_able’s AI Camouflage for Data Privacy: textiles designed to make individuals invisible to machine vision while amplifying a message about safeguarding human identity. She highlights how fashion can act as both a statement and a solution, empowering individuals to reclaim control over their biometric data and protect the most vulnerable aspects of humanity.

This presentation includes live demonstrations of Cap_able’s innovative technology, showcasing its ability to disrupt AI recognition in real-time and spark a conversation about the role of human agency in a world dominated by machines.

Attendee Results:

• Learn about the pervasive challenges of AI surveillance and its impact on personal privacy.
• Discover how fashion can be a powerful tool to counteract facial recognition technology.
• Explore the ethical implications of data privacy and the need for human-centered design solutions.
• Experience live demos of AI camouflage technology, offering a glimpse into its transformative potential.

This session inspires audiences to reconsider their relationship with technology and embrace the importance of safeguarding human identity in an increasingly automated world.

Protecting Journalists in High-Risk Areas: Fashion as a Tool for Freedom of Speech

In this compelling session, Rachele Didero addresses the intersection of fashion, technology, and human rights, focusing on solutions for data protection and personal privacy in high-risk environments. With a specific emphasis on journalists working in dangerous regions, Rachele explores how AI camouflage textiles can shield individuals from facial recognition systems, safeguarding their identity and safety.

The talk introduces collaborative strategies between designers, technologists, and journalists to create wearable solutions—such as scarves or garments—that protect personal data and advocate for the fundamental right to freedom of speech.

Attendee Results:

• Understand the critical role of design in protecting human rights and freedom of speech.
• Learn about innovative textile solutions for countering facial recognition technology.
• Explore collaborative opportunities between creative and technological sectors to support vulnerable groups.

The Evolution of Textiles: From Tradition to Cutting-Edge Technology

Rachele Didero explores the fascinating transformation of the textile industry, tracing its journey from traditional craftsmanship to groundbreaking advancements in soft robotics, smart materials, and AI-integrated textiles. This session highlights the convergence of Made in Italy excellence with the latest industrial innovations, showcasing how traditional clusters of artisanal production are embracing sustainable and functional practices to meet modern demands.

The talk covers the dual challenge faced by the industry: balancing the race for sustainability with the growing need for multifunctional textiles. From eco-design solutions utilizing recycled materials to wearable technology integrating soft robotics, Rachele provides a comprehensive overview of how innovation is reshaping the global textile landscape.

Using insights from her collaborations with leading manufacturers and her Ph.D. research, she delves into the critical role of new technologies, including digital knitting machines, advanced looms, and bio-inspired processes, in driving both ecological and economic progress.

Attendee Results:

• Gain a deep understanding of the current trends in textile innovation.
• Explore the integration of sustainable practices with high-performance textile applications.
• Discover how Made in Italy craftsmanship continues to set global standards through a blend of tradition and technology.

Learn about the transformative potential of soft robotics and smart materials in redefining textiles for diverse industries.

Fashion as Ethical Activism: Balancing Innovation and Responsibility

Rachele Didero, CEO of Cap_able, explores how design and technology can act as powerful tools for ethical activism. In this talk, she delves into the unique role of adversarial textiles in challenging the misuse of AI and surveillance technologies, while advocating for privacy and personal freedom. Using Cap_able as a case study, Rachele demonstrates how fashion can balance technological innovation with ethical responsibility, addressing critical societal issues like sustainability and data privacy.

This session also examines how ethical design can inspire cultural dialogue, foster individual empowerment, and drive societal change. Attendees will gain insights into how designers and technologists can collaborate to create solutions that not only solve problems but also ignite broader conversations about human rights, freedom of expression, and the future of design.

Attendee Results:

• Learn how design can act as a catalyst for ethical activism.
• Understand the societal implications of AI and surveillance technologies.
• Explore strategies for integrating ethics into innovative design processes.

Discover how tangible, wearable solutions can address abstract societal challenges like privacy and sustainability.