intelligent

Even prior to the pandemic , it was expected that the global virtual fitting room market would reach over US $ 10 billion by 2026 . With increased regulation to manage hygiene and social distancing measures in-store , we expect that this figure has already risen and will only continue to do so as these innovations become all the more important given some people might no longer feel safe trying on clothes in fitting rooms . Since AR , AI and VR innovations can address some customer concerns around health and hygiene , we will likely see an increase in the adoption of such technologies into the fitting room .

Turning uncertainty into opportunity

The pandemic has thrown the globe into disarray and while none of us can predict the future , the one on our horizon now is very different to the one we anticipated just a few months ago .

Though full of uncertainty , there is an opportunity for retailers to find their feet again , but alongside emerging technologies like Blockchain and AR . �

To allow customers to try on items virtually , retailers should consider introducing technology which scans an actual product or barcode in-store on customers ’ smartphones to bring up details of the product as well as a visualisation of it on a 3D avatar . The customer can then browse for different sizes and colours and select the best fit .

This could allow customers to ‘ try on ’ as many products as they want without any timing constraints . It would also allow social distancing rules to be followed more easily . Contactless fitting rooms like this could be the bridge between the physical fitting and the convenience of online shopping .