What a retailer needs to launch a virtual try-on
to launch a virtual try-on, a retailer needs a prioritised catalogue with reliable product material, 3D models (or colour data) for each reference, an integration with their online store or their point of sale, an internal team that is responsible, privacy compliance and a way to measure results. The recommended approach is to start with a tightly scoped pilot.
1. An objective and a business case
- What do you want to improve? Conversion, returns, average order value, awareness.
- In which categories? Choose where the try-on adds the most value.
- What is the success threshold? Define targets before you start.
2. Prioritised catalogue
- List of candidate references (by sales, margin, returns, purchase doubts).
- Pilot of 10-30 references with good turnover.
- Clean master data: codes, variants, colours, measurements.
3. Product material
Depending on the category:
| Category | Material needed |
|---|---|
| Glasses, jewellery, watches | Measurements, drawings, photographs, physical samples, CAD |
| Make-up | Colour samples, finishes, pigment data |
| Footwear | Patterns, measurements, physical samples |
| Clothing and accessories | Patterns, photographs, fabrics, sizes |
The more information you have, the faster and more faithful the production of the models will be.
4. 3D content production
- 3D models or colour layers, depending on the product (modelling guide).
- Variants (colours and finishes) correctly associated.
- Optimisation for web and mobile (guide).
- Quality control against the real product.
5. Platform and integration
- Online store: button on the product page, a link to the catalogue and to "Add to basket".
- Physical store: mirror, screen or QR code.
- Web or app: a decision based on your case (web vs app).
- Analytics and CRM: events and a connection to your systems.
- Catalogue management: a process for adding new references.
6. Internal team
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Project lead | Coordination and decisions |
| Product / merchandising | Selection of references and material |
| eCommerce / digital | Integration and UX |
| Marketing | Launch and promotion |
| IT | Security, integrations, performance |
| Legal / privacy | Compliance and wording |
| Customer service | Support and feedback |
7. Privacy and legal points
- Clear information about camera use.
- On-device processing whenever possible.
- Do not store images without consent.
- Biometric and facial data: particularly sensitive processing; consult your data protection officer.
- Cookies and analytics in line with the regulations.
- Accessibility: alternatives for anyone who cannot use the camera.
8. Launch plan
- Closed pilot with employees or selected customers.
- Correction of quality issues.
- Launch in the pilot category.
- Promotion: web, email, social media, store.
- Measurement over several weeks.
- Progressive expansion of the catalogue.
9. Measurement
Define before launch how it will be evaluated: usage rate, conversion, returns, order value, satisfaction and project cost. See how to measure virtual try-on performance.
10. Budget and timelines
There are no universal figures: they depend on the number of references, the category, the integration and the technology. Ask for a quote that details model production, integration, licences, maintenance and support.
Quick checklist
- [ ] Objective and KPI.
- [ ] Pilot category and references.
- [ ] Product material.
- [ ] 3D models or colour data.
- [ ] Technical integration.
- [ ] Team and owners.
- [ ] Privacy review.
- [ ] Launch plan.
- [ ] Measurement defined.
Key ideas
- Start with a pilot in the most favourable category.
- Product material is the basis of quality.
- Integration with the store and analytics are essential.
- Facial data require particular legal care.
- Measure, learn and expand in phases.
Frequently asked questions
How many references do I need to start?
A pilot of between 10 and 30 is usually enough to obtain data.
Do I need my own technical team?
Not necessarily; the supplier can take on a large part of it. But you need an internal lead.
What happens when I launch new products?
Their model has to be produced; it is worth agreeing a workflow and timelines.
How long does the pilot launch take?
It depends on the material and the integration; a well-defined pilot can move quickly.
More guides on this topic
How to add AR product visualisation to an online store
A guide to adding AR product visualisation to an online store: 3D models, formats, integration on the product page, platforms, performance, analytics and best practice.
How to create an interactive retail campaign with QR codes and augmented reality
A guide to creating an interactive retail campaign with QR codes and augmented reality: concept, touchpoints, mechanic, reward, legal points, launch and measurement.
How to measure virtual try-on performance
Metrics for measuring a virtual try-on: usage rate, time, conversion, order value, returns and satisfaction. A/B test, attribution and how to avoid bias.