Doji Revolutionizes Virtual Apparel Try-Ons with AI-Powered Social Avatars

Virtual try-ons have long been a goal for tech giants like Amazon and Google, aiming to boost online apparel shopping by making it more engaging and inspiring. Startups have also explored AI to solve challenges around fit and style inspiration. Enter Doji, a new startup that is redefining this space with an app focused on making virtual apparel try-ons both fun and social through personalized avatars.

Founded by Dorian Dargan and Jim Winkens—experts with backgrounds at Apple, Meta, and DeepMind—Doji leverages cutting-edge AI diffusion models to create photorealistic avatars. Users upload selfies and full-body images, which the app uses to generate a highly personalized digital representation. This avatar then tries on various clothing items, offering an interactive and social way to explore fashion.

Unlike other apps that rely on single images, Doji’s more thorough onboarding process ensures higher-quality avatars and better clothing matches. Users can select favorite brands and even submit apparel links to see how items would look on their avatars. While the app currently focuses on visual try-ons rather than fit accuracy, the team plans to enhance fit prediction and streamline the purchase experience within the app.

Doji’s launch has been met with enthusiasm, securing a $14 million seed round led by Thrive Capital to further develop its AI models. The app’s social features encourage sharing and discovery, making shopping a more enjoyable and personalized experience. Currently invite-only and available in over 80 countries, Doji aims to remove access barriers soon, expanding its reach.

The Broader Significance of AI in Virtual Try-Ons

Doji exemplifies how AI advancements are reshaping eCommerce by enhancing user engagement and personalization. The use of diffusion models to create avatars that users connect with emotionally marks a shift from static product images to immersive, interactive experiences. This approach not only inspires consumers but also reduces friction in online shopping, potentially lowering return rates and increasing customer satisfaction.

Furthermore, integrating social sharing features taps into community-driven discovery, which can amplify brand reach and foster loyalty. As virtual try-ons evolve to include fit prediction and seamless purchasing, platforms like Doji could redefine how consumers interact with fashion brands online, making shopping more efficient, personalized, and enjoyable.

Opportunities for Developers and Businesses

Developers can explore integrating AI-driven avatar creation and virtual try-ons into their own retail platforms to enhance customer experience. Businesses stand to benefit from increased engagement, reduced product returns, and deeper customer insights through data generated by virtual try-ons. The social dimension also offers new marketing channels and community-building opportunities.

As AI technology continues to advance, the potential for more accurate fit prediction and real-time virtual try-ons will grow, making this an exciting space for innovation and investment. Companies like Doji are leading the way by combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of user experience and fashion culture.