Haute Slop

The central argument is that the art and luxury fashion worlds are backing away from generative AI while also being pulled into it, and that the moralistic tone of much criticism has undermined the risk-taking that moves culture forward. The article cites the British Museum's removal of AI-generated images posted in January, which an Artnet report said came down within six hours, and Gucci's AI images from creative director Demna, who told CNN Style, "If I can use it to do something that gives me a quick idea or visualization of something, why shouldn't I do it?" It contrasts these with Hermès hiring illustrator Linda Merad in early 2026 to create digital assets with a distinctly manual feel. The article is written by Sarah Hromack, founder of Soft Labor.