A Brighton-based designer has created an AI-driven platform designed to support the realisation of high-fashion garments.
Paul, founder of the PAUL MILANA COUTURE label, developed Pocket Atelier – a digital tool combining artificial intelligence with traditional couture techniques.
The launch coincides with preparations for design + AI 2026, a two-day industry conference examining how artificial intelligence is influencing contemporary design practice.
In previous comments, Paul explained his reasoning for developing the platform.
He noted that when constructing something with AI, it made sense to build it around his existing professional knowledge.
He described how the technology assisted him in evaluating his concepts and determining which approaches were most viable.
According to him, the system contributed not only to constructing the final product but also to establishing what that product should ultimately become.
Pocket Atelier features a nine-stage process guiding users from initial concept through design, technical development, pattern making and embellishment, concluding with project documentation.
The platform targets independent designers, professional couturiers, sample makers, fashion students and experienced garment manufacturers who may lack access to dedicated development teams.
Pricing is set at £18 for complete projects, with individual stages available for £2 apiece.
Paul has previously explained that while he desired additional specialists in his workshop, physical space constraints prevented maintaining a large team.
This limitation prompted him to explore whether specialist expertise could be recreated digitally.
The technology does not eliminate the requirement for qualified craftspeople.
Garments still demand cutting, assembly, fitting and finishing by experienced hands.
Instead, the platform delivers structured, uniform information to support the creative process.
Stephen, who oversees operations in Paul’s workshop, has described how the system allows the team to visualise Paul’s intentions more clearly.
He noted that all team members reference identical information, substantially reducing uncertainty in the production process.
Paul’s engagement with AI began with Terry, an assistant he developed to help manage his dyslexia while conducting design work.
This initial experiment in digital support expanded into a wider exploration of collaborative technology, eventually evolving into the Pocket Atelier system.
Paul has stated that he did not substitute his own expertise with AI.
Rather, he positioned the technology around his existing knowledge and leveraged it to extend the reach of his professional capabilities.
He emphasised that his objective was never to replace designers, couturiers or sample makers, but to provide tools he himself had wished were available during his career.