To further
expand its avatar feature, Meta is launching a new avatar fashion store that
features a variety of collections from big fashion houses like Balenciaga,
Prada and Thom Browne. Meta
plans to launch the store across Facebook, Instagram and Messenger.
In addition
to this, Meta has plans of allowing digital creators and brands to design their
own fashion items for the store and sell them, which ultimately makes this initiative
a monetization tool as well.
Meta has
recently developed other ways of promoting its avatar feature, including adding
an avatar reactions option on Instagram and launching improved 3D avatars for
use across both Facebook and Instagram, in various ways. The tech giant is also
in the process of creating new photo-realistic avatars to create more
true-to-life depiction of the characters that people can use for professional engagements.
The addition
of a fashion element would further enhance self-expression through the avatars.
However, it is interesting to note that Meta’s initiative is not really an
original idea, since gaming companies like Roblox and Fortnite have similar
platforms where users can purchase or acquire clothing upgrades for their gaming
characters. The fashion items on these platforms, too, are from renowned brands
like Gucci,
GAP, and Tommy Hilfiger.
Meta’s strategy of providing a virtual space of self-expression
could be a foundational step towards the Metaverse evolution, as the company is
determining the future of social engagement in the virtual world.
