A Conversation with Faith Bradley: On Fashion, AI, and the Art of Teaching

By Carolina Echevarria

When I called Faith Bradley for this Interview, I knew we'd talk about fashion. Still, I didn't expect to leave the conversation thinking so deeply about the future of Creativity, technology, and education. Faith teaches at both Columbia and NYU, researches how AI intersects with design and marketing, and has a career path shaped by curiosity and innovation. Throughout our call, she spoke with warmth, honesty, and clarity about her journey, her students, and the evolving fashion landscape.

Carolina Echevarria: First off, how are you?

Faith Bradley: I’m doing well, thank you!

Carolina: Let’s start from the beginning. How did you become involved in fashion, and what led you to a career in teaching?

Faith: I currently teach at Columbia and NYU, but my academic journey began at George Washington University. I became particularly interested in how technology influences every aspect of our lives. I started studying data and movement, including how people travel, make decisions, and interact with systems. That led me to research around the Visa Waiver Program and the REAL ID Act, and eventually brought me to the State Department. From there, I pursued a Ph.D. and started teaching.

Carolina: That’s such a unique path. And now your research focuses on how generative AI is intersecting with fashion and marketing?

Faith: Yes! I’m fascinated by how AI is being utilized across various creative industries, particularly in the fashion sector. It’s showing up in design, marketing, recommendation systems, and even creative production. I don’t think AI replaces creativity; it enhances it. It can speed up processes, aid in ideation, and support people in fascinating ways.

Carolina: I agree. I was just at the Vogue Summer School last week, and they were discussing how AI is impacting the fashion industry. It’s becoming part of the conversation.

Faith: Exactly. The big question is how to strike a balance, how do we maintain artistic value while also embracing new tools? How do we protect creative work from being exploited by AI, while still using it to support designers and marketers? It’s something I see my students navigating already. Some are working in very tech-forward spaces, while others are at traditional houses like Hermès. The range is so exciting.

Carolina: I’d love to hear more about the student culture at NYU. What’s it like?

Faith: NYU students are fearless. They’re creative, free-spirited, and incredibly focused on their goals. They think differently, in a very non-traditional way, in the best possible way. It’s inspiring to work with them. And Colombia is amazing too, but in a very different way. It’s more structured and academic. NYU has this open, artistic energy that stands out.

Carolina: That must be such a rewarding environment to teach in.

Faith: It is. They keep me on my toes every single day.

Carolina: How do you help students connect what they learn in class to their bigger goals?

Faith: I always tell them: whenever you’re learning something, ask yourself how it gets you closer to your dream job. I want students to actively think about where they’re headed and how their learning applies to real life. If they can tie it back to something they care about, they’re much more likely to engage and take ownership.

Carolina: I love that approach; it shows how invested you are in your students’ futures.

Carolina: Switching gears a bit, who are some of your fashion icons?

Faith: Tom Ford, Karl Lagerfeld, and Ralph Lauren. Tom Ford brings that sexy, sophisticated edge. Karl was mysterious and modern; he redefined Chanel in such a brilliant way. And Ralph Lauren is timeless. He creates for every lifestyle and every generation, which is so powerful.

Carolina: Do you have a favorite collection from each of them?

Faith: Definitely. For Karl, I loved his Rome in Dubai collection. He broke away from Paris and brought fashion to new geographies. Tom Ford’s early Gucci era was bold; he proved himself under pressure. And his fragrances? I’m obsessed. With Ralph Lauren, it’s all about elegance. You can wear his pieces from morning to night; they always work.

Carolina: That’s such a strong lineup. One last question: Can you share a moment that made you especially proud of a student? And, what’s your go-to New York City fashion essential?

Faith: I feel proud every time a student gives back. One that stands out: a student got a graduation gift and used it to buy a present for her mom. It was a truly genuine moment of gratitude, and it meant a great deal to me. And watching my students succeed, that’s everything. As for my NYC essentials? A Birkin or Kelly bag, Chanel gloves and shoes, my Cartier watch, and of course, a simple black dress. You can never go wrong with that.

Carolina: That’s classic, and so chic. Thank you again for taking the time to chat with me. This was such a thoughtful and inspiring conversation.

Faith: Thank you! It was a pleasure. I can’t wait to read the piece, please send it my way when it’s live!

Carolina: Absolutely, it’ll be on the site by Friday!