-1.png?width=500&height=500&name=Square%20icons%20(1)-1.png)
.png?width=1080&height=1080&name=Bold%20Metrics%E2%80%99%20digital%20twin%20technology%20helps%20some%20of%20the%20worlds%20biggest%20bands%20increase%20conversion%20and%20AOV%2c%20reduce%20returns%2c%20optimize%20their%20customer%20experience%2c%20and%20boost%20brand%20loyalty.%20(2).png)
In the competitive world of apparel, ensuring a perfect fit is paramount. A well-fitted garment not only enhances the customer’s appearance but also significantly impacts their shopping experience, loyalty, and overall satisfaction.
The Impact of Fit on Apparel Success
Fit is more than just a size on a label; it's a deeply personal aspect of clothing that affects how customers perceive themselves and the brand they are wearing. Unfortunately, many online shoppers encounter frustration when trying to find the best fit. The model may look great, but shoppers know their measurements are different, leading to uncertainty and disappointment when the garment doesn't fit as expected.
Customer Dissatisfaction and Bracketing
94% of surveyed consumers overwhelmingly cite size and fit as the most frustrating aspects of online apparel shopping. This issue significantly impacts customer satisfaction and loyalty, driving many shoppers to buy multiple sizes of the same item, keep what fits, and return the rest. This "bracketing" practice not only burdens consumers but also increases shipping and handling costs for retailers.
The Consequences of Poor Fit for Retailers
Sizing and fit issues have far-reaching implications for retailers beyond just customer dissatisfaction. Poor fit can lead to high return rates, excess inventory, and operational inefficiencies. Moreover, it can alienate first-time shoppers, those whose body dimensions have recently changed, or customers who have not engaged with the brand for an extended period.
Automating Fit Accuracy and Personalization
Historically, size and fit solutions were limited to basic sizing charts or comparison tools. However, advancements in AI and machine learning have revolutionized this aspect of retail. By creating digital twins of customers through simple surveys, brands can now generate accurate body measurements without the need for photos or measuring tapes.
This technology allows retailers to provide detailed information about how a garment will fit across a shopper's body, taking into account individual fit preferences. The result is higher customer satisfaction and increased conversion rates. Additionally, garment sizing insights can be used to manufacture better-fitting clothing, promoting sustainable production methods and reducing returns.
The Future of Fit in Apparel
As hyper-personalized experiences become a baseline expectation, ensuring positive sizing and fit experiences is critical for retaining customers. Poor fit can drive customers to seek alternatives, making it essential for retailers to provide friction-free experiences that instill confidence in their products.
By capturing body data and personalizing fit recommendations accurately, retailers can improve ecommerce performance, streamline operations, and enhance sustainability. Transforming fit experiences is not just about boosting sales; it's about future-proofing key performance indicators across the entire apparel organization.
To thrive in the current market landscape, Apparel brands and retailers must prioritize fit accuracy and personalization. By doing so, they can significantly enhance customer loyalty, reduce operational costs, and promote sustainable practices.
