Fashion and technology are coming together more than ever, and Google’s latest move is proof of that. On June 27, 2025, Google launched Doppl, an AI-powered app that lets you virtually try on outfits without stepping into a store. Available for iOS and Android users in the U.S., this experimental app from Google Labs is changing the way you shop for clothes. But how does Doppl stack up against other virtual try-on tools, and what does it mean for the future of online shopping? Let’s discuss it.
What is Doppl and how does it work?
Doppl aims to make fashion personal and fun. Imagine you take a picture of yourself, upload it to the app, and then “try on” whatever outfit you see—whether it’s from a friend’s Instagram post, purchased at a thrift store, or bought from an online retailer. The app uses artificial intelligence to create a digital version of you, mapping the clothes to your body to create a realistic preview. It doesn’t stop there—Doppl can also turn those still images into short videos that show how the outfit might flow or fit as you move.
In a nutshell, it works like this:
- Upload photo: Take a full-body picture of yourself to create a personalized digital avatar.
- Choose outfit: Choose any image of clothing, from social media screenshots to store photos.
- See it in action: Doppl creates a realistic image or video of you wearing the outfit.
- Save and share: Put your favorite looks in a virtual wardrobe or share them with friends for feedback.
Since it’s still in its early stages, Google warns that fit and details may not always be accurate. But as an experimental project, Doppl is a bold step toward merging AI with everyday style choices.
How Doppl compares to other virtual try-on tools-
Virtual try-on technology isn’t exactly new — retailers and tech companies have been dabbling in it for years. But Doppl brings something new. Let’s compare it to other players in the game:
- Google Shopping’s Virtual Try-On: Google has been in the virtual fashion space before. In 2024, Google Shopping introduced a feature that allowed users to see clothes on different model body types. Doppl takes it a step further by putting you on the same outfit instead of a generic model. It’s more personal and not tied to a specific retailer, giving you the freedom to experiment with any look you like.
- Amazon’s Virtual Try-On*: Amazon has its own version of this, which lets users preview clothes on a digital model. While it’s cute, it’s mostly limited to items sold on Amazon’s platform. Doppl’s edge? You can upload images from anywhere—think Pinterest, a friend’s closet, or a boutique window. This makes it less about shopping and more about exploring styles.
- Snapchat’s AR filters: Snapchat and other social media platforms use augmented reality (AR) to let users “try on” virtual clothes or accessories. These are fun but often cartoonish, prioritising entertainment over accuracy. Doppl’s AI aims for realism, using advanced algorithms to mimic the way clothes drape and move.
- Zalando and ASOS: European retailers such as Zalando and ASOS have experimented with AR-based try-ons, but these often require specific retailer apps or are limited to certain clothing categories. Doppl’s standalone app and ability to handle tops, bottoms and dresses from any source make it more versatile.
Dopple’s biggest draw is its flexibility. Unlike most tools that push you to shop, Dopple feels like a playground for fashion lovers. It’s not just about shopping — it’s about creativity and self-expression.
Why virtual try-ons are a big deal
The rise of virtual try-on apps like Dopple reflects a broader trend: online shopping is getting smarter and more interactive. According to a 2023 study from the National Retail Federation, more than 70% of online shoppers return items because of poor fitting or not meeting expectations. Virtual try-ons aim to fix that by giving you a better idea of how clothes look before you “buy.” This can save shoppers money and reduce the environmental impact of returns, which often end up in landfills.
Here’s why tools like Doppel are becoming popular:
- Diminishing returns: Seeing an outfit on your body (or a close digital version) helps you make better choices Sustainable Shopping: Fewer returns mean less packaging waste and fewer carbon emissions from shipping.
- Personalized Experience: AI tailors try-ons to your body shape, making online shopping feel more like an in-store fitting room.
- Fun and Social: Sharing virtual looks with friends adds a social element, turning shopping into a collaborative experience.
- Dopple’s video feature is particularly exciting. Still images only Shows a lot, but a video preview lets you see how a dress moves or how jeans stretch.
The technology behind Doppl: AI meets fashion
The magic of Doppl comes from Google’s advances in AI and image processing. The app uses a custom fashion-based image generation model that understands body shape, fabric texture, and the way clothes move. It builds on Google’s earlier work with Gemini and Veo 3, which power realistic video generation.
Google’s Doppl app is a fun, innovative take on virtual fashion, blending AI with personal style in a way that feels fresh and accessible.
Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or just tired of returning ill-fitting clothes, Doppl is a must-try. It’s a glimpse into the future of shopping, where AI doesn’t just help you buy – it helps you define who you are.
Sources:(nrf.com), (statista.com) (edu.google.com)
