Fashion redefined: Try clothes at home and buy online in UAE

Online shopping is gaining ground. Fashion outlets across the city might still be making money but a new solution gaining ground is threatening to put them out of business.

In a game-changing move eBay, the online retail store that  also sells clothing will soon be able to let you experience how the product fits on you, thereby eliminating the need for you to visit your neighboring mall.

Online shopping be it from your mobile, tablet or a desktop becomes all the easier as you will immediately be able to see how the new product fits on you. eBay has announced that it has acquired PhiSix, a computer graphics company that creates 3D models of clothing from photos, pattern files and other sources and simulates the behaviour of the garments.

Both companies did not reveal any financial details. A statement released jointly by both companies said, PhiSix’s technology has exciting possibilities – both online and offline – as it allows consumers to see how clothes fit, look and move in different environments without actually having to try them on.

Signing in into your eBay account could then mean that your avatar will be able to go around trying a whole lot of online products.

These 3D models allow shoppers to use a virtual fitting room to view the clothes in various scenarios – such as walking down the street or hitting a golf club, rather than using a dressing room.

A new video uploaded onto You Tube gives an idea about what eBay plans to introduce soon.

The company says by rolling out the new solution developed by Phi Six it can help consumers reduce the large number online sales that are returned every year.

PhiSix’s innovative technology can help solve one of the common problems online shoppers face – fit and look.  With a virtual fitting room enabled by PhiSix technology, shoppers can determine fit with physically accurate simulations of the garments.

The technology is able to recommend a size for the user’s body based on basic measurement inputs. 

“All of these points to an immersive shopping experience that enables consumers to try on clothes virtually before buying online, which the company believes will reduce returns and enhance the overall shopping experience,” the statement said. 

The technology could also be integrated across the entire eBay Inc. portfolio to enable a more immersive and compelling user experience so consumers can make informed choices whether at home or in a store.

“PhiSix’s technology enables consumers to understand the fit and movement of clothes in an online shopping environment,” said Steve Yankovich, vice president of Innovation and New Ventures of eBay Inc.

“Consumers can experience the merchandise in a more efficient way, which we believe will drive sales for retailers and create a delightful experience for shoppers,” he added.

Many retail stores including some in the UAE have already started incorporating similar features where you do not need to visit a trial room. A special large screen in the size of a mirror thanks to the hinect technology scans your body shape and lets you virtually try on many new models.

But what eBay is doing is to simply not make you visit a retail store at all.

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