What Is Virtual Try-On?
Virtual try-on (VTO) uses augmented reality (AR) or AI image synthesis to superimpose a product onto a live camera feed or a still photograph of a person. For apparel retailers, this means a shopper can upload a photo and see a garment realistically draped on their own body. For furniture, they can view a sofa in their own living room.
The technology addresses one of the most persistent problems in online retail: shoppers cannot physically inspect or try on products, which leads to high return rates. By giving customers a realistic preview, virtual try-on reduces uncertainty and builds purchase confidence.
AI Try-On vs. Traditional AR Try-On
Early virtual try-on was purely AR-based - overlaying a flat image on top of a camera feed, which looked unconvincing. Modern AI try-on uses generative models to realistically deform and shade the garment around body contours, accounting for wrinkles, fit, and light. The result is indistinguishable from a real photo of the person wearing the item.
Bryft's AI Try-On Models feature uses this approach, allowing ecommerce brands to show products on diverse, lifelike AI models rather than requiring shoppers to upload personal photos - balancing privacy with realism.
Key Benefits
- Reduce return rates by 30–40% by setting accurate size and style expectations
- Increase purchase confidence among first-time buyers
- Showcase products on diverse body types without expensive model shoots
- Eliminate the privacy concern of requiring customers to upload selfies
- Scale product visualization across an entire catalogue instantly
Real-World Example
A sportswear brand integrates Bryft's AI Try-On Models on their product detail pages. Instead of showing a single model, each product is shown on six AI models of different ethnicities, body types, and sizes. Return rates drop by 38% within three months, and customer satisfaction scores rise significantly.