Protolabs and GE Additive take 3D printing to Met Gala

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A leading fashion designer has collaborated with Protolabs and GE Additive to showcase 3D printed sculptural garments and accessories at the Met Gala, an event described as fashion’s ‘biggest night out’.

Zac Posen, who has designed dresses for Uma Thurman, Michelle Obama and Rihanna, used this year’s Met Gala to highlight the growing influence of additive manufacturing in the world of fashion by displaying a transparent 3D printed bustier.

Worn by actress Nina Dobrev, the garment was created using Protolabs’ expertise in stereolithography and was inspired by the concept of freezing natural objects in motion.

The three-way collaboration involved manufacturing experts at the company’s UK and German facilities, as well as engineers from GE Additive.

Posen said: “The Met Gala is special for designers because it’s the biggest fashion event in the world. This year it is particularly special because we’re working with GE Additive and Protolabs to 3D print ideas that are unachievable using fabric.

“For me, science, engineering and art all work together. That’s why standing at the forefront of 3D printing is so important.”

Daniel Cohn, general manager of Protolabs, said: “In a fashion project like this, 3D printing gives designers almost complete creative freedom.

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