Mirror at a click

In fashion’s next chapter, the fitting room is going virtual

- VAISHALI DAR

NTHE AGE of technology, shopping is also undergoing a transformation.

Forget crowded fitting rooms, long queues, and the uncertainty of online sizing charts — increasingly, consumers are stepping into a world where their smartphones double as mirrors, and a swipe on an app is all it takes to see howa jacket, pair of sneakers, or even a diamond necklace might look on them. Welcome to the era of virtual try-ons.

For years, augmented reality (AR) filters were seen as little more thana playful gimmick, something to add dog ears on Snapchat or sparkles to an Instagram selfie. But in 2025, those same tools are powering one of the fashion industry's most promising revolutions. Imagine scrolling through Zara's mobile app, pointing your phone at yourself, and instantly seeing howalinen dress drapes across your body. Or opening Lenskart's app and trying ona dozen eyeglass frames without ever leaving your couch. For Gen Z, raised on Instagram filters and digital avatars, this is less novelty than second nature.

“T hate going to malls, and I don’t like guessing if something online will fit me. If I can try it virtually and it looks good, I'm way more confident about clicking to buy,” says Rohini Mathur, a 25-year-old fashion student, who uses Snapchat AR lenses to test out sunglasses and jackets.