What 3-D Printing Means for the Fashion and Retail Industries

Scott also said the technology can change the way apparel is manufactured. "Instead of a sweatshop worker sewing a garment together, someone can make personalized, customized items sitting in front of their own computer writing code," he said. "This will drive better design."

Sensor-based technology and how it can be incorporated into fashion was discussed on the panel. Jef Holove, for example, the CEO at San Francisco-based BASIS Science, discussed his company's well-designed and fashion-forward heart and fitness monitors, the body monitoring phenomena, and how the various monitors consumers wear can all become indicative of a personal style.