Body scanning technology is revolutionizing the apparel industry, offering precision, customization, and efficiency like never before. By capturing accurate body measurements through 3D scanning, brands can optimize sizing, enhance shopping experiences, and reduce returns. Below are seven key applications of body scanning technology in apparel, supported by relevant statistics.

1. Accurate Sizing and Fit Optimization

One of the biggest challenges in the apparel industry is inconsistent sizing. Traditional size charts often fail to accommodate diverse body shapes, leading to poor fit and high return rates.

Impact of Body Scanning:

• 3D body scanning provides detailed body measurements, ensuring precise garment fitting.

• According to a study by McKinsey, 70% of online apparel returns are due to poor fit, which body scanning can significantly reduce.

2. Personalized and Custom Clothing

Customization is becoming a trend in fashion, and body scanning technology makes it easier for brands to create tailored garments.

Key Benefits:

• Brands can produce made-to-measure apparel, eliminating the need for standard sizes.

• According to Forbes, 81% of consumers prefer personalized fashion experiences, making body scanning a crucial tool for brands.

3. Virtual Try-On Solutions

Virtual fitting rooms are changing the way consumers shop online. With body scanning, shoppers can see how clothes will fit before purchasing.

Market Growth & Benefits:

• The virtual fitting room market is projected to grow to $10 billion by 2027 (Statista).

• Studies show that 65% of consumers are more likely to buy if they can try before they buy (Retail Dive).

• Retailers like Zara and ASOS use virtual try-on solutions powered by body scanning.

4. Sustainable Fashion and Waste Reduction

The fashion industry generates 92 million tons of textile waste annually (Ellen MacArthur Foundation). Body scanning helps reduce waste by enabling precise manufacturing.

How It Helps:

• Brands can produce only what is needed, reducing excess inventory.

• 3D scanning technology can reduce returns by up to 50%, cutting down waste.

5. Inclusive Fashion for All Body Types

Many consumers struggle to find clothing that fits well due to body diversity. Body scanning technology ensures that everyone, regardless of size or shape, has access to well-fitting apparel.

Benefits:

• 67% of U.S. women are considered plus-size, yet most brands only cater to standard sizing (NPD Group).

• Body scanning allows for extended size ranges without increasing production costs.

6. Enhanced Uniform and Workwear Production

Uniforms and workwear require precise sizing for comfort and efficiency. Body scanning technology simplifies mass production for corporate and military uniforms.

7. Advancement in Augmented Reality (AR) Shopping

The integration of body scanning with AR is transforming e-commerce by providing interactive and immersive shopping experiences.

Growth in AR Shopping:

• The AR clothing market is expected to hit $6.5 billion by 2025 (MarketsandMarkets).

• Virtual body scanning reduces size-related returns by 40%, boosting profitability.

• Major brands like Gucci and Prada have implemented AR-based body scanning for online shopping.

Conclusion

Body scanning technology is reshaping the apparel industry by improving sizing accuracy, enabling personalization, reducing waste, and enhancing the shopping experience. With consumer demand for better-fitting and sustainable clothing growing, brands that adopt this technology will gain a competitive edge.