UK virtual try on software specialist Zyler focuses on pixels over plastic as it releases digital Christmas jumper

UK-based fashion technology company Zyler has released a digital Christmas jumper which anyone who visits their website or social media can ‘wear’ for free using its AI powered virtual try on tool.

This was designed by Zenaida Ossana, a 3D artist and fashion designer with a significant following on Instagram. She created the design using new AI platform Neural Fashion and was inspired by seascapes and mermaids in her creative process. She comments: “It was really fun to work on this design knowing that many people might be able to see it and experience the potential of digital fashion for themselves”.

The origin of the Christmas jumper tradition can be traced back to 19th century Scandinavia where thick warm and brightly coloured jumpers were worn to escape from the cold. More recently, Statista reported that on average 47% of consumers worldwide enjoy ugly Christmas jumpers. However, that is not what motivated this project.

Zyler collaborated with Ossana after being made aware of the shocking stats of the overconsumption of Christmas jumpers. True Origin reports that 12 million are purchased each year in the UK alone and 25% of those are only worn once.  

Research by environmental charity Hubbub found that 95% of jumpers are made completely, or considerably from synthetic materials. Generally they are acrylic, and this means that they take over 200 years to decompose.

Zyler’s innovation consultant and digital fashion expert Karinna Grant who led this project says: “We think this is a fun use of AI tech, combining VTO and digital fashion to offer consumers an alternative way to participate in this phenomenon.”

“We do also acknowledge that these technologies have an environmental footprint, however we believe that responsible use of AI and digital design considerably outweighs the negative impact of overproduction and discardment of physical clothing.”

Consumers can try the experience by visiting Zyler’s flagship Digital Dressing Room here. In less than 90 seconds you can see yourself wearing the design. All it takes is one click on the jumper, followed by adding a profile photo and a few measurements.

Consumers are encouraged to share on social media with hashtag #Pixelsoverplastic. If, however, people do need or want to buy a physical Christmas jumper, at the same link Zyler lets them try on several options.

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Zyler was among the finalists at the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, sponsored by Vista Technology Support, Scala, CADS, 3D Cloud, Brightpearl by Sage’s Lightning 50, Business France, and Retail Technology Show 2025, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended last month’s gathering.