VR Thrust Into the Spotlight Amid Pandemic

But can the tech world capitalize on it? NYFW brands waylaid by the coronavirus era aren’t waiting to find out.

The coronavirus crisis has clearly stoked interest in virtual reality, as brands flock to digital tools in the face of lockdowns and shelter-at-home orders.

Among the latest to join the ranks are brands affiliated with New York FashionWeek. Dozens of these labels are looking to go beyond social commerce or a mere livestream, hoping to deliver immersive, evocative experiences that can mirror the real thing.

The concept art looks far slimmer than standard VR headsets, approaching smart glasses territory. It’s not clear if the tech works as well as a full-fledged Oculus Quest, but that’s not the point.

If it can squeeze a decent enough experience into a small factor and offer a robust shopping platform backed by some of retail’s best names, then it has a chance of accomplishing something Oculus hasn’t yet — broader mainstream adoption.

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