UX Research for TrueToForm

UX Research for TrueToForm

UX Research for TrueToForm

This is the story of how I worked as a research assistant to validate the accuracy of TrueToForm's 3D Fit Widget and the many ups and downs along the way.

This is the story of how I worked as a research assistant to validate the accuracy of TrueToForm's 3D Fit Widget and the many ups and downs along the way.

This is the story of how I worked as a research assistant to validate the accuracy of TrueToForm's 3D Fit Widget and the many ups and downs along the way.

background

TrueToForm's 3D Fit Widget

Ever second-guessed what size to order when shopping online? You’re not alone—42% of online returns happen due to fit issues, with many shoppers resorting to bracketing (buying multiple sizes to try at home). For retailers, this translates to billions in lost revenue annually.

TrueToForm (TTF) is solving this problem with its 3D Fit Widget, a tool that predicts garment fit based on body measurements. Originally designed for made-to-measure clothing, TTF now helps shoppers confidently find their ideal size through:

Survey Avatars: AI-generated avatars based on similar body data.
Body Scans: Personalized avatars created from a quick phone scan for precise sizing.
the challenge

Testing for Accuracy

How well does the fit prediction algorithm really work? That was the big question—and, at this point, all we had were assumptions. We needed real data to prove (or disprove) its accuracy.

Our high level goals were to:
  • Determine how spot-on (or off) the fit predictions were

  • Spot patterns in sizing discrepancies

  • Understand how many participants felt the recommended size actually matched their preferred fit

  • Uncover pain points and areas for improvement

With these in mind, we set out to put the algorithm to the test.

my role

Assistant UX Researcher

As a research assistant, I worked closely with the lead UX researcher to support testing from start to finish. I facilitated tests, curated data, extracted insights, and led affinity mapping. I also synthesized qualitative findings and presented key takeaways to stakeholders.

With a lean team of two researchers, two engineers, and the Co-Founders, we took on the masive project to validate the 3D Fit Widget—navigating tight budgets, an ambitious timeline, and plenty of surprises along the way.

the approach

Virtual Fit Prediction vs Reality 

To put the algorithm to the test, we ran moderated fit tests with 27 participants, comparing real-life garment fit to the algorithm’s predictions—based on both survey data and body scans.

And because no research project is without its challenges, we made it all happen on a tight budget and timeline. (How? Let’s just say creativity and resourcefulness were ✨essential✨ )

Kicking off Testing

We ended up conducting 27 moderated tests via zoom with women in the USA, between ages 18-40, who frequently shop for clothing online and have experience using size prediction tools.

Pre-test instructions

We asked participants to perform a body scan using the TrueToForm app PRIOR to the online session.

Mailing test materials

We mailed each participant three different sizes of the same red t-shirt, along with a clothing measuring tape.

Moderated testing

During moderated Zoom sessions, we guided participants with taking physical measurements of their bust, waist, and hips, which were later compared to the measurements from their body scan.

Recording observations

We then observed as participants interacted with the fit widget, noting any qualitative insights as we compared how the shirts fit in reality against the predictions from both the scan and the survey.

27 participants, 81 T-shirts, and six weeks of testing later—we’ve got answers, some setbacks, and plenty to reflect on.

27 participants, 81 T-shirts, and six weeks of testing later—we’ve got answers, some setbacks, and plenty to reflect on.

27 participants, 81 T-shirts, and six weeks of testing later—we’ve got answers, some setbacks, and plenty to reflect on.

The Discovery
Determining How Spot-On (or Off) the Fit Predictions Were

📈 The survey prediction exceeded expectations

We originally estimated 70% accuracy, but survey-based fit predictions outperformed, averaging 77.4%—a win beyond our initial goal.

📉 The body scan prediction fell short

Despite aiming for 95% accuracy, body scan predictions averaged 85.7%, leaving room for improvement.





Spotting Patterns in Sizing Discrepancies

❌ Sleeve length was the biggest culprit

  • Midway through testing, we found that avatars were being generated with incorrect shoulder widths, directly skewing sleeve predictions.

❌ Waist fit inconsistencies emerged

  • Since garments have a fixed waist position, individual torso length affected how the waist actually fit. This finding led the team to consider integrating torso height into future predictions.





Understanding How Participants Felt About the Recommended Size

👚 Fit preferences weren’t one-size-fits-all

Some participants preferred a snug, form-fitting look, while others leaned towards a looser, more relaxed fit—making it really hard to get a success rate - proving that fit is more personal than just numbers.

👱🏻‍♀️ "I’d buy the 2X because even though it’s a little, baggy, it’s more comfortable this way. I like my shirts to be on the larger side"

👩🏽‍🦱 "I prefer my clothing to fit tighter, so I usually choose smaller sizes to avoid excess fabric.”





Uncovering Pain Points & Areas for Improvement

📝 Fit language caused confusion

Users found terms like "tight" and "loose" confusing since they’re not commonly used in fashion.

So, midway through testing, we updated the language to better match industry norms:

While we didn’t have exact metrics, confusion noticeably dropped.


👤 Avatars Felt Bland & Lifeless

Users describe the avatars as bland, clinical, and lacking personality, comparing it to "naked mannequins" or a "TSA scan."

👩🏼‍🦰 “Nothing excites me about this avatar. It reminds me of a medical app.”

To explore a better alternative, I used AI and Photoshop to create avatars that feel more engaging and approachable—without being uncomfortably realistic. 

These explorations aim to breathe life into the avatars because shopping should be fun, not bland and clinical!

b

In summary, the survey results showed promise, but the body scan predictions and user feedback remind us that we still have work to do to make sizing feel more personal and engaging.

Reflection

What We Learned

Looking back, we might have taken on a bit more than we could handle with just two researchers and limited resources. The first surprise? The cost of recruiting our target of 30 participants was eye-opening. We wanted to streamline the process with a user recruitment platform, but the price tag was way beyond our budget—especially since we had to provide each participant with three T-shirts and a measuring tape.

So, we rolled up our sleeves and got creative! I crafted social media ads targeting our ideal demographic, which was successful but also involved a lot of scheduling and admin work that ate into our tight timeline.

Another curveball was ensuring participants measured themselves accurately while we guided them remotely. Without control over their environment, we often questioned the accuracy of their measurements.

Identifying true patterns in discrepancies was challenging due to several factors:

  • Variability in T-shirt sizes

  • Lack of oversight in the measuring process

  • Inconsistent participant assessments

  • Researcher bias—sometimes participants insisted a loose-fitting shirt was fitted, leaving us to make judgment calls.

What We Would Do Differently

In hindsight, we’d create a more controlled environment and experiment with different materials, like stretch vs. non-stretch, to improve accuracy.

What’s Next?

As the developers focus on refining the backend, we’re excited to leverage the valuable qualitative data we gathered during testing to improve V1 of the 3D fit widget. With our research in hand, we’re prepared to make some impactful enhancements!

Need a thoughtful designer?

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Black and white avatar

Joanna Corona

UX/UI Designer

Joanna is a NYC-based product designer, most recently at fashion tech startup TrueToForm, where adaptability and innovation drove her work.

Black and white avatar

Joanna Corona

UX/UI Designer

Joanna is a NYC-based product designer, most recently at fashion tech startup TrueToForm, where adaptability and innovation drove her work.

Black and white avatar

Joanna Corona

UX/UI Designer

Joanna is a NYC-based product designer, most recently at fashion tech startup TrueToForm, where adaptability and innovation drove her work.