In a groundbreaking moment for fashion and technology, an unconventional model and its robotic sidekick took center stage at Shanghai Fashion Week. The NMTG fashion brand stunned the audience by featuring a humanoid robot alongside a robotic dog on the runway, marking a bold step toward the future of fashion. This remarkable debut highlights the industry’s evolving relationship with robotics and AI, blurring the line between human and machine on the catwalk.
The humanoid robot and its canine companion hail from Unitree Robotics, a company at the forefront of advanced robotics. The humanoid, Unitree G1, showcased impressive strides as it strutted down the runway in a metallic bodice adorned with maroon and cream fringes. The carefully crafted dual-toned fringes added a fluid movement to its otherwise mechanical walk. The robotic dog, on the other hand, was dressed in delicate frilly lace, blending futuristic aesthetics with high fashion.
Despite the spectacle, the reaction from fashion enthusiasts was mixed. Many viewers found the concept unsettling, fueling ongoing debates about robots replacing human models. Social media was flooded with critical comments, with one user sarcastically questioning, “Are the models gonna lose their job too?” Another compared the humanoid’s stiff movements to someone who had just completed “a 10-day horse ride.”
Some were quick to point out that while the humanoid’s presence was impressive, it lacked the signature poise of legendary supermodels. A particularly humorous comment read, “Obviously hasn’t mastered the Gisele Bündchen walk yet!” highlighting the difference between robotic precision and human grace on the runway.
This marks the first time a humanoid robot has actively dominated the runway, taking on a role typically reserved for human models. While robots have made appearances at fashion shows before, they were often part of passive tech showcases, led by human performers.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time AI and fashion have intersected. Earlier this year, at the Giuseppe Di Morabito show, supermodel Yasmin Wijnaldum performed an interactive runway segment with Ameca, the world’s most advanced humanoid robot, pushing the boundaries of innovation and fashion.
Whether futuristic or dystopian, the presence of robots on the runway is a conversation that won’t be fading anytime soon. Shanghai Fashion Week has once again proven that the future of fashion is evolving in unexpected and thought-provoking ways.
Related Topics
- Prosenjit Chatterjee Stuns in Traditional Attire at Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI
- Shalin Bhanot Dazzles as Showstopper for Niki Mahajan’s Khadi India Collection at Lakmé Fashion Week X FDCI
- Karisma Kapoor Stuns in Classic Black & White Saree at Lakmé Fashion Week 2025
