"Beyond Standard Sizing: A 3D Revolution in Online Apparel Retail for Personalized and Precise Fit"

Abstract

Three-dimensional body scanning is a non-contact method of measuring the human body. This process is highly accurate, quick, efficient, and reproducible. According to Bragança, Arezes, Carvalho, and Ashdown, 2016, clothes that are not designed taking into consideration the dynamic postures greatly affect the users’ feeling of comfort and performance. 3D body scanning technology has great potential for successfully being employed in online apparel-selling applications. However, the successful implementation of this technology depends on the acceptance by consumers. While it has not acquired mass adoption, mobile scanning applications promise to bring benefits straightforwardly to the customer.

This research was undertaken on 315 respondents from Ahmedabad. Questions related to problems faced while buying perfect-fit garments online, the need for more personalized and precise fit options for online apparel shopping, and major reasons for returning or exchanging the garments as well as leading to reluctance towards expensive garment purchases online, were addressed. In addition, the concept of 3D body scanning technology in online apparel-selling apps solving the above-mentioned problems was explored. Likert scale questions pertaining to the views of the respondents towards 3D body scanning technology in solving the return/exchange issues, providing the perfect fit, helping in choosing the right dress were also asked. The responses were classified into 2 categories: Optimizing Shopping Experience with 3D Technology and Promoting Sustainability in Online Apparel Retail

Studies show that automated 3D body scanners can effectively and quickly take precise measurements of the human body and produce accurate, to-scale representations. The integration of 3D body scanning technology has emerged as a pivotal link between traditional craftsmanship and computer-aided design, offering promising prospects for enhancing precision in clothing design and production. Anticipated benefits from the implementation of this technology include heightened consumer satisfaction through personalized sizing and a consequential reduction in commercial waste attributed to the decreased frequency of returns due to ill-fitting garments.