Seventeen years ago, I created Eric, a lifestyle avatar ahead of his time. Today, 9dcc’s AI influencer, Dolos Diary, carries that vision forward, merging tech, fashion, and blockchain innovation with a bold NFT campaign redefining how brands engage audiences.
The Dawn of AI Influencers
The fashion-tech world is abuzz with the announcement that 9dcc, the pioneering onchain fashion brand, has signed Dolos Diary (TikTok.com/@dolosdiary), its first AI agent influencer. Dolos, depicted as a Roman statue with razor-sharp humor and a penchant for viral engagement, steps into the spotlight as the ambassador for 9dcc’s upcoming Black Box NFT drop on December 18, 2024.
With over 50,000 followers and a flair for captivating audiences, Dolos is far from a traditional influencer. Instead, he’s an embodiment of technological innovation, representing a bold, experimental partnership that redefines how fashion brands connect with digital-first consumers.
The Visionary Roots of Digital Identity: From Eric to 9dcc’s Dolos Diary
Seventeen years ago, while working with PEI Enterprises, including Playboy Magazine, I embarked on an ambitious project that would foreshadow the rise of today’s AI influencers like Dolos Diary. I envisioned creating an avatar to represent the quintessential reader—a lifestyle symbol tailored to reflect our audience’s aspirations. I named him Eric, crafting not only his appearance but also an entire home, persona, and lifestyle to embody the spirit of our brand. Eric was more than an avatar; he was an archetype, a digital character that could engage readers in a dynamic and personal way. When I presented this concept at a global conference in Sicily, I was met with skepticism. Perhaps the world wasn’t ready for Eric yet; perhaps my vision was simply too ahead of its time. But looking back, I see that the seeds of today’s AI-driven marketing were planted in that moment of creative risk.
Fast forward to today, and brands like 9dcc are turning this futuristic vision into reality. With Dolos Diary, 9dcc isn’t just leveraging AI to sell products—they’re revolutionizing how brands connect with their audiences. Dolos, styled in the finest pieces from COLLECTION-01, engages followers with wit, sarcasm, and viral content across platforms like TikTok and X. But this partnership is more than entertainment; it’s an experiential campaign tied to the exclusive Black Box NFT drop. This drop combines the allure of premium fashion, the innovation of blockchain, and the excitement of gamified experiences to deliver something entirely new in the fashion-tech space.
Here are the five most important things about what 9dcc is doing and why it matters:
- Bridging Digital and Physical Realms: Through their Networked Products™, 9dcc blends premium materials with blockchain technology for a seamless phygital experience.
- Innovative Marketing with AI: By signing Dolos Diary, 9dcc demonstrates the power of AI influencers to create meaningful, viral engagement.
- Gamified Consumer Experiences: The Black Box NFT campaign isn’t just a drop—it’s an interactive adventure, offering rewards like exclusive fashion and even a rare CryptoPunk NFT.
- Expanding Community Connections: With NFC technology and digital quests, 9dcc fosters a dynamic and connected consumer ecosystem.
- Leading the Onchain Fashion Movement: As the first onchain fashion brand, 9dcc redefines what’s possible at the intersection of style and technology.
Looking back on my experience with Eric, it’s thrilling to see how ideas that once felt “too futuristic” are now shaping the industry. In many ways, the world has finally caught up. Where Eric paved the way, Dolos Diary is showing us just how far that path can lead.
The Campaign: A Journey Beyond Fashion
In this campaign, Dolos Diary will be styled in pieces from 9dcc’s COLLECTION-01, responding to fan comments with his signature wit while creating viral content across TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and other social platforms. But the partnership isn’t just about promotion—it’s about engaging audiences in an interactive, gamified experience designed to generate anticipation for the Black Box drop.
The 9dcc Black Box offers more than just fashion; it delivers mystery, exclusivity, and a touch of blockchain history. Each box contains:
- A premium piece from COLLECTION-01, like an Essential Baseball Cap ($95), Printed Denim Trucker ($540), or Satin Bomber Jacket ($600).
- 9dcc Network Points, essential for climbing the brand’s leaderboard.
- A chance to win CryptoPunk #7492, a coveted NFT valued at over $150K.
Only 2,750 Black Boxes will be available, each unlocking a unique blend of digital and physical rewards.
9dcc: Innovating at the Intersection of Fashion and Technology
Founded by gmoney in 2022, 9dcc has built its reputation as an avant-garde onchain label that seamlessly merges premium fashion with cutting-edge blockchain technology. Its products, dubbed Networked Products™, integrate NFC chips that provide holders with interactive experiences—from quests and games to collectible tokens—bridging the gap between the digital and physical worlds.
By leveraging Dolos Diary’s AI capabilities and 9dcc’s tech-forward ethos, this partnership showcases a bold vision for the future of fashion marketing, where creativity, interactivity, and technology converge.
The Whimsical Finale
As Dolos Diary gears up to unveil the 9dcc Black Box, one thing is certain: this Roman statue is here to break the internet, one sarcastic reply at a time. Whether you’re a blockchain enthusiast or a fashionista looking for the next big thing, December 18, 2024, is a date to mark on your calendar. Will you snag a Black Box? Will you win the CryptoPunk? Or will Dolos simply roast you in the comments?
Whatever happens, one thing is clear—fashion has entered the future, and it’s hilariously sarcastic.
About the Author:
Joseph DeAcetis is a visionary force in the world of fashion, celebrated as one of the finest wardrobe stylists and art directors of his generation. His expertise and creativity have earned him accolades throughout the industry, placing him at the forefront of fashion’s evolution. Joseph’s work seamlessly weaves together style, culture, art, and fashion, with a special focus on the shifting landscape of menswear.
Over the course of his distinguished career, Joseph has had the privilege of styling and even interviewing global icons such as Elon Musk, Justin Bieber, Richard Branson, Katy Perry, Tom Brady, and A$AP Rocky, to name just a few. His influence extends beyond styling, as he has also been a prolific writer, contributing award-winning columns to esteemed publications like Esquire, People Magazine, Robb Report, and Playboy. His deep insights and captivating storytelling have established him as a leading voice in fashion journalism.
Joseph most recently served as Creative Fashion Director at Forbes Media, where his dual role as critic and reporter allowed him to explore the intersection of technology and fashion, always championing the transformative power of style. As the founder and president of POTRO, the premier Latinx menswear brand, Joseph is redefining modern menswear with a commitment to celebrating Latinx heritage and craftsmanship.
With an authoritative yet relatable voice, Joseph DeAcetis continues to inspire and influence the world of fashion, setting new standards for success and innovation.
Comments, questions, or feedback? visit me at stylelujo.com
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