Sizing up garments with 3D technology

Global designers and clothing brands are increasingly using sophisticated tech tools such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to clothe their customers with the right fit

The age of mass customisation is being driven by predictive technologies that can anticipate, plan and produce for each consumer’s specific needs. This is particularly true of the global readymade garment industry. 

Irrespective of age, gender or geography, the first question for a consumer is whether a particular garment’s size will fit or not. Being in vogue is important but wearing the right fit is essential. 

Global designers and clothing brands are increasingly using sophisticated tech tools to clothe their customers with the right fit. The industry faces a return rate of 20-40 per cent because buyers find that their clothes don’t fit. 

Add to this the fact that the size nomenclature differs in various countries. Often the United States and Europe size system does not account for the body shapes of people in other countries. 

India has announced the launch of a size survey by National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). The INDIASize survey of 25,000 persons in six regions will heavily depend on emerging technologies to understand, record and create a new size code for domestic consumers. 

A full-body 3D scanner will automatically gather body measurements and capture images. This will help extract error-free data in a manner that would not be possibly done by hand. Each such scan will take about 10 seconds. The INDIASize project will help footwear and garment makers to reduce the return rate and improve the fittings of domestic buyers. 

Global brands are already leaning on artificial intelligence and 3D scanning to improve the size of sportswear, casuals and clothes for children. Berlin-based Fit Analytics works with global brands to help their shoppers choose the right fit. Consumers can use an online size advisor where they have to select their preferences. A customer can say that they have a slight curvy belly, need a tight shoulder fit while adding their height and weight. A series of images can help the consumer find the right configuration for their specific body shape. The machine learning algorithm will suggest the correct size for that consumer.

Such data is also used by clothing makers to create more options within a size category. Another such company, WAIR, based in California, says it has the world’s largest network of 3D body scanners which has helped it get over two million scans. “Over 3,000 3D body scanners operating in 55 countries are used to continuously capture validated 3D body scans. Over 400 body measurements are processed from each scan and users enter enriched personal information,” says WAIR. 

For young start-ups that want to take on legacy players, New York-based Shapeways can help design and create customised clothing with 3D printers. Designers can become entrepreneurs with minimal investment in manufacturing facilities, using 3D printers. More importantly, they can offer precision fitting, using body shape data for consumer categories which get left out from mass-market products. 

While predictive analysis of trends has helped the fashion industry, the use of AI, ML and 3D technologies will bring much comfort to consumers. Indian textile and garment makers are also experimenting with various emerging technologies for manufacturing. However, the move towards finding the right fit for the Indian consumer is becoming a priority. 

The INDIASize project has the potential to bring a wealth of consumer data for garment makers. While the sizing chart will be local, this will trigger a wider and continuing effort to create customised clothes and footwear for the Indian consumer. 

Sharper focus on consumer needs can now be done at lower costs and help cater to the affordable-market categories too.