Friday, October 6, 2023

R29 Editors’ 21 Favorite Cozy Season Essentials

It’s that time of year again: Roll out of bed, step into fluffy slippers, light a candle, make yourself a hot tea, and cuddle up on your couch under a weighted blanket. Fall is officially cozy season, and that means living our coziest lives at home. So right now, we’re pulling out our favorite cozy clothing and festive home décor from years past (or buying new ones to refresh our space with).

We’re pretty specific with our fall picks over here — whether its our favorite cozy fleece sweatshirts, go-to autumnal baking pans and cookware, or feel-good fall candles — and we’re more than happy to share them with you if it means you get to live your coziest life yet. Below, you’ll find blankets that’ll keep you nice and toasty, mugs that’ll make you feel like you’re at a fancy café, and much more. So read on to see how R29 cozy editors live (and thrive) at home when the air gets chillier.

Big Blanket Co. Original Stretch Blanket, $159

“Blankets are my everything; I use them the whole year, but the one I use changes with the season. I love this blanket from Big Blanket Co. for sleeping and snuggling under for nice fall flicks because 1. it’s huge; and 2. my blanket-hogging partner (and dog) can’t leave me freezing at night with this much blanket to go around. I’m serious when I say this is a huge, snuggly-soft blanket. I recommend it to everyone, blanket lovers and non-blanket lovers alike.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator

MCIRCO 3 Pack Glass Pie Plates, $19.99

“Anyone who knows me knows that I am a big baker, especially around the fall as the squirrels and I get ready for winter hibernation. I prefer baking apple crumble pie in glass pie plates, as they allow me to see the pie’s baking status and prevent burning. Glass also just presents very nicely and has the wow factor I’m going for. I particularly like this set of glass pie plates since they come in a pack of three (more pie for everyone), the handles make for easy carrying, and the little designs on the crust area are a nice aesthetic flourish.” — Becca Sax

Smartwool x FP Movement Hike Light Cushion Crew Socks, $24

“These are some of the most comfortable socks you’ll ever own. I first found Smartwool when I had to buy hiking socks, and the brand’s socks have been my favorite ever since. I usually wear slippers around the house, but if not, I wear socks — and these ones are always my top pick. Smartwool socks are so soft, comfortable, and cushiony for my dogs that I cannot stress enough how much I love them. While these are a bit thicker since they’re designed for hiking, Smartwool also has tons of other pairs for activities that need less cushioning.” — Becca Sax

Yankee Candle Harvest Large Jar Candle, $31

“A couple years ago, I went on a little trip to Massachusetts (The Summer I Turned Pretty stans, please do not ask any questions beyond this… I barely know the geography of upstate New York) and found my way to the Yankee Candle store. As some may know, classic Yankee candles are monster candles that will burn for years, maybe even decades if you like to savor your candle collection. My favorite purchase from that visit — the Harvest scent — has burned on. And a simple request from me: Please do not try to look cool and light your candles with your regular lighter. Grab yourself a candle lighter, and select one in a pretty color too — it makes everything safer and more cheerful during the darker months.” — Clare Palo, Senior Strategist, Audience Development

FP Movement Mountain High 1/2 Zip Fleece, $98

“My JW Anderson x Uniqlo cranberry (or ‘wine’) fleece has me in a chokehold during the fall and winter months. When the temperature dropped below 70 degrees recently, that fleece snuck its way to the front of my closet. That particular pullover is sold out, but I’m loving these FP Movement colorways to cozy up in. And if you’re super into fall apple picking, JW Anderson also made a luxury fleece splurge just for you.” — Clare Palo

Anthropologie Bistro Tile Margot Monogram Mug, $14 $11.20

“Cozying up with a nice cup of tea on a chilly morning is one of the best feelings, and my Bistro Tile Margot Mug from Anthropologie makes it much more special. It elevates a regular cup of jasmine green tea and is nice to look at while perched on your coffee table or desk. It’s also the perfect thoughtful stocking stuffer, as it’s monogrammed, so all you have to do is choose your giftee’s initial to give a cute custom gift.” — Vivien Lee, Affiliate Fashion Writer

Cozy Earth Stretch-Knit Long Sleeve Bamboo Pajama Set, $225 $180

“It’s not cozy season without a pajama set from Cozy Earth. I own two sets of the brand’s Long Sleeve Bamboo Pajamas, and I truly live in them all fall and winter long. The soft stretch-knit drapes around you, making you feel luxurious, and the lightweight set has temperature-regulating qualities that make them perfect for long naps on the couch and bedtime. The pretty shades and prints are also an additional perk.” — Vivien Lee

Nordic Ware Harvest Bounty Loaf Pan, $32.99 $28.09

“Instead of cookies or cake, I love baking bread — like, I have an obsession. As soon as the first brisk breeze appears, I run for my Nordic Ware Harvest Bounty Loaf Pan. The pan elevates any pumpkin bread you’re making with its sculptural design of pumpkins, pine cones, and acorns. It’s super easy to use and always comes out clean with a bit of butter around the nooks and crannies and a sprinkle of flour. I’m telling you now, The Great British Bake Off has got nothing on you. Here’s to creating the best fall showstopper bakes.” — Vivien Lee

Anthropologie Harvest Pumpkin & Sweet Vanilla Glass Pumpkin Candle, $78

“Every October, I like to cruise through Anthropologie’s fall candles for a fresh lineup. This year, I’ve already begun to fall in love with the Cheena Harvest Pumpkin Candle. Not only is it stunning to look at, but it has a glorious blend of pumpkin and sweet vanilla — reminiscent of freshly baked pumpkin bread — that gives warmth to your home. The candle also makes a great cozy coffee table piece with its dark orange hue and pumpkin-shaped exterior.” — Vivien Lee

Summersalt The Plush Velour Half-Zip Pullover, $65

“As soon as there’s a hint of chill in the weather, I don’t want to be wearing anything other than a fleecy sweatshirt; they keep me so warm and are super easy to dress up or down, but most importantly, they are fairly low-maintenance compared to sweaters. I’ve fallen head over heels for this velour pullover from Summersalt lately: the half-zip design and gorgeous olive color upgrades the look from comfy tracksuit to casual chic, and looks so cute as a set (with the matching lounge pants) or with jeans. I’ve been wearing this non-stop around the house and as a travel outfit to keep me warm and cozy on flights.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer

Fireside by Dearfoams Greta Genuine Shearling Clog, $80 $49.95

“I’ve never been much of a slipper person, mainly because I always feel like they’re going to be the reason I take a header down the stairs in my home. These Dearfoams ones, while incredibly cozy and soft, have a somewhat bootlike sole that feels super stable and non-slippy, even on carpet, and I’ve found them to be the ideal antidote for the incredible unpleasantness of stepping on my icy floors first thing in the morning.” — Sarah Crow, Affiliate Director

Ember Stainless Steel Temperature Control Travel Mug, $199.95 $175

“Cold drinks? In this economy? There is something so nice about having coffee that stays warm all day, especially when it’s cold outside. And while I know this Ember mug is a decidedly indulgent purchase, the incredible joy it brings me to get to enjoy drinks at something other than room temperature is worth every damn penny.” — Sarah Crow

Eli & Elm Cooling Side-Sleeper Pillow, $129.99

“To me, the best part about fall and winter is having an excuse to practically never leave my bed. Sad? Sure. Honest? 100%. And, after years of having literally the most garbage, bargain-basement pillows in the world (to the extreme detriment of my neck, back, and, TBH, face), I’ve finally invested in an actually decent pillow to sleep on. This Eli & Elm pillow has a cutout section that’s perfect for tucking my arm under and its slight incline (plus pretty heavy weight) have kept my neck comfortable night after night and have prevented me from tossing it off the bed, as I so often do with lighter pillows.” — Sarah Crow

Jenni Kayne Cedar Glass Candle, $65

“There’s nothing better than waking up on a cold gloomy morning, lighting a candle, and cozying up on the couch with a book and mug of coffee. I was gifted this particular Jenni Kayne candle a few years ago and have repurchased it for myself every fall/winter since. Its scent is warm and festive without being overpowering or obviously ‘holiday,’ and the vessel is simple and chic.” — Kate Spencer, Senior Affiliate Partnerships Manager

Great Jones Easy Bake Pan Set, $121 $100

“If your cookie and pumpkin bread output doesn’t increase 150% in the fall and winter, I’m not sure what you’re doing. I feel like the last thing that gets an upgrade is baking supplies, but this set by Great Jones in the ‘Broccoli’ colorway is going to make my cozy cooking experience so much more elevated this season.” — Kate Spencer

Kin Chocolate Kinsie Onesie, $99

“Satin and afros go together like peanut butter and jelly. And I go together with cozy, oversized onesies like jelly and peanut butter. So, imagine my delight when I — a Black woman with an afro — scored this satin-lined, oversized, and cozy onesie from the Black woman-owned brand Kin. The second the weather dipped below 70, I popped it on and wore it day after day in my apartment. I didn’t realize how much more comfortable the satin lining in the hood makes me feel when wearing it. This is all to say that if you don’t have this onesie in your closet by the time the leaves change, well, I don’t know what you’re doing.” — Alexandra Polk, Affiliate Lifestyle Writer

Lovesac Wombat Phur Radiant Footsac Blanket, $350 $262.50

“As a proud cold sleeper and even more proud cold feet owner, I adore this heated blanket during the chilly seasons. It’s dangerously supple, large enough to swaddle my 5’ 8” stature, and super customizable, with 10 heat settings. It would be a worthy buy even without the warm and toasty oasis that is its double foot pocket stitched at the bottom. Yes, there is a situation where we can purchase a heated blanket that bakes our poorly circulated feet as much as our legs, torso, and shoulders. ‘Tis a fall must-have in my home.” — Alexandra Polk

Illume Noble Holiday Woodfire Soy Candle, $32.99 $29.95

“This candle is a certified Refinery29 reader-favorite — and for good reason. Its smoky cedar aromas, suede notes, and cozy amber scents pair perfectly with both fall and holiday vibes. Add it to your next Amazon haul if you want to give fall and winter a warm welcome.” — Alexandra Polk

Your Heart’s Content Set of 3 Small Velvet Pumpkins, $31.99

“My favorite fall decor to put out every year are colorful velvet pumpkins. They add the right amount of warmth and festive-ness to my space without looking like tacky Halloween decorations. In the past, I’ve found all of mine from T.J. Maxx, but I’m also into this Amazon option, which allows you to customize a set of three (or more) pumpkins in a variety of colors. I’ll be buying these this season and dotting them around my home, from the living room to my bedroom.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer

Jordan’s Skinny Sugar Free Iced Cinnamon Roll Coffee Syrup, $11.95

“Listen, these syrups are the only way I’ve been finishing off my home-brewed coffee for years, and I refuse to stop using them. They actually allow me to drink my coffee without any creamers and just give me a serotonin boost in the morning. At the moment — and especially during the fall — my go-to is the cinnamon roll flavor. But I’m also partial to the caramel and vanilla flavors.” — Victoria Montalti

Squishmallow Pumpkin Pie Plush Toy, $17.84

“I have never been one to buy myself stuffed animals, but I’ll happily accept them as gifts. This one was gifted to me by younger sister, and it sits front and center on my bed during the fall. If you’ve ever had the pleasure to squeeze a Squishmallow, then you know just how magical the plush-meets-squishy fabric is, and if you haven’t, essentially it’s like cuddling a marshmallow. It’s amazing and I love using it as a mini pillow for extra cozy naps.” — Victoria Montalti

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Behold: The Best Prime Day Plus-Size Clothing Deals

Have you been scouring the internet for a worthy plus-size clothing sale or looking into Amazon like a shopping sleuth? Well, we've simplified the process by sifting through the overwhelming amount of attractive discounts to bring you a hand-picked selection of the best Amazon plus-size clothing deals to shop from ASAP.

That's right, Amazon Prime Big Deals Day is October 10-11, and there are amazing fall fashion deals you can shop right now. Whether you're looking for the latest shoes on sale, intimates, or activewear, there's a range of inclusive options. Shoppers can find deals like more than 30% off cocktail dresses, up to 45% off jeans, almost 60% off bralettes, and much more. So read on, get to shopping, and continue to check back here for updated Prime Day deals.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff—and, while we do receive commission from Amazon, all of the goods linked to on our site are independently curated by our Most Wanted shopping team editors. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

44% Lee Plus Size Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Jean


Sizes: 16 - 30 Petite & Long

Jeans are the foundation of a comfy and fabulous 'fit — shop Lee's discounted, relaxed-fit straight jeans. The bottoms have a flexible waistband for comfort and embroidered back pockets for a bit of detail.

Shop Lee at Amazon

Lee Plus Size Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Jean, $, available at Amazon

15% Hanna Nikole Plus Size Lace Sleeve Cable Knit Sweater


Sizes: 16 Plus - 24 Plus

Cable-knit sweaters are classic fall pieces, but have you seen one with lace balloon sleeves? Hanna Nikole has crafted a soft knit that won't pill and is available in five other autumnal hues.

Shop Hanna Nikole at Amazon

Hanna Nikole Plus Size Lace Sleeve Cable Knit Sweater, $, available at Amazon

23% Tommy Hilfiger Plus Size Quilted Long Fur Trim Puffer Coat


Sizes: 1X - 3X

If you're wondering how fall has already arrived, it'll be winter in the blink of an eye. You'll be ready with a fresh quilted coat once that first snowflake drops or crisp breeze flows.

Shop Tommy Hilfiger at Amazon

Tommy Hilfiger Plus Size Quilted Long Fur Trim Puffer Coat, $, available at Amazon

33% off In'Voland Plus Size Glitter V-Neck Cocktail Dress


Sizes: 16 Plus - 26 Plus

Are social gatherings beginning to pop up on your calendar? Prep your holiday dresses with a new sparkly one from In'Voland. There are a plethora of comfy and stretchy cocktail dresses in various hues, from cherry red to dark green.

Shop In'voland at Amazon

In'voland Plus Size Glitter V-Neck Cocktail Dress, $, available at Amazon

Playtex 2-Pack 18-Hour Ultimate Lift Wireless Full-Coverage Bra


Sizes: 34C - 48DDD

Playtex has supported women for decades, and their Ultimate Lift Wireless Full-Cover Bra is one you need ASAP. The moisture-wicking jacquard fabric is cooling, and the satin panel is stretchy for no bulging or gaping on the side or back. Did we mention that there's almost a 60% discount for Prime Day? No? Well, here you go.

Shop Playtex At Amazon

Playtex 2-Pack 18-Hour Ultimate Lift Wireless Full-Coverage Bra, $, available at Amazon

27% Off KOJOOIN Plus Size Flutter Sleeve Wrap Dress


Sizes: XL - 5X

Amazon is home to beautiful plus-size dresses, many of which are on sale. This wrap dress, in particular, is a versatile option that you can dress up or dress down. Overall, it's a steal.

Shop KOJOOIN at Amazon

KOJOOIN Plus Size Flutter Sleeve Wrap Dress, $, available at Amazon

40% Off Levi’s Plus Size Original Trucker Denim Jacket


Sizes: XL- 4X

You can't go wrong with a denim jacket, especially when it's a high-quality one from Levi's. Pair it with a sundress or comfy jeans for a trendy Canadian tuxedo.

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Levi's Original Trucker Jacket, $, available at Amazon

40% Off SIMIYA 3-Pack Seamless Stretchy Sports Bras


Sizes: XL-4X

Forty percent off comfy seamless bras? We're in. Cart up this three-pack and wear them as sports bras during physical activity or bralettes for everyday use.

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SIMIYA 3-Pack Seamless Stretchy Sports Bras, $, available at Amazon

50% Off The Drop Ombre Print Side Slit Skirt


Sizes: XL - 3X

We love a midi skirt moment, and this colorful style is screaming for tropical vacays. Style it multiple ways for day or night, and prepare yourself to receive many compliments.

Shop The Drop at Amazon

The Drop Ombre Print Side Slit Skirt, $, available at Amazon

25% Off Amazon Essentials Plus Size Classic Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress


Sizes: XL - 6X

Yes, animal print can be a neutral, especially when paired with solids. Grab this discounted dress and style it with a denim jacket and white sneakers for an easy put-together look.

Shop Amazon Essentials at Amazon

Amazon Essentials Classic Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress, $, available at Amazon

21% Off SHAPERX Seamless Sculpting Thong Bodysuit


Sizes: XXS - 5XL

If you like shapewear, you'll love this popular and highly rated bodysuit. There's a broad size range and several discounted colorways, so you can stock up on a few to wear under clothing and as tops.

Shop SHAPERX at Amazon

SHAPERX Seamless Sculpting Thong Bodysuit, $, available at Amazon

25% Off Just My Size Plus Size Stretch Jersey Capri Leggings


Sizes: 1X - 5X

With over 23k positive reviews, you know you can trust these plus-size leggings to serve you well. It features a wide waistband that won't ride down and seams that prevent chafing.

Shop Just My Size at Amazon

Just My Size Plus Size Stretch Jersey Capri Leggings, $, available at Amazon

38% Off Fruit of the Loom Plus Size Breathable Underwear — 6 Pack


Sizes: 9 - 13

If you're looking for a great deal on intimates, check out this underwear, which is on sale for less than $12 for six colorful pairs.

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Fruit Of The Loom Plus Size Breathable Underwear - 6 Pack, $, available at Amazon

67% Off TEREA Lexie Pleated Front Pant


Sizes: XXS - 5X

Super-summery pants that you can wear from the office to vacation and are nearly 70% off. Do we need to say more?

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TEREA Lexie Pleated Front Pant, $, available at Amazon

Up To 20% Off Cupshe Plus Size Ruched Back Tie One-Piece Swimsuit


Sizes: Large - 3X

We know and love Cupshe, and right now, this cutout one-piece swimsuit from the brand is discounted. Jump on this deal before the sale disappears, or worse, before this style sells out.

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Cupshe Plus Size Ruched Back Tie One-Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Amazon

Up To 45% Off Amazon Aware Ponte Knit Slim Pant


Sizes: XXS - 7X

With an impressive size range, these Amazon brand pants can be worn by everyone. Sport this wardrobe staple in the office throughout summer and beyond.

Shop Amazon

Amazon Aware Ponte Knit Slim Pant, $, available at Amazon

Up To 66% Off IN'VOLAND Plus Size Satin Cami Short Pajama Set


Sizes: 16 Plus - 22 Plus

Slip into a pair of satin PJs and never look back. At nearly 50% off, you're scoring big time with these matching plus-size pajamas.

Shop Amazon

In'voland Plus Size Satin Cami Short Pajama Set, $, available at Amazon

Up To 40% Off SANTINY Quick Dry Athletic Cargo Shorts


Sizes: Small - 3X

Pick up these shorts for your next hot girl walk. The pockets will fit all of your essentials, and the drawstring waist won't cut into your stomach.

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SANTINY Quick Dry Athletic Cargo Shorts, $, available at Amazon

Up To 35% Off Summer Mae Plus Size Twist High Waist Bikini Set


Sizes: 14 Plus - 22 Plus

If you're looking for a new bikini for the summer, look no further than this set. The twisted top is flattering, and the bottoms feature adjustable straps for the perfect fit.

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Summer Mae Plus Size Twist High Waist Bikini Set, $, available at Amazon

Up To 38% Off Hanna Nikole Plus Size 2 Piece Athletic Tankini Swimsuit


Sizes: 16 Plus - 26 Plus

As we know, Amazon also has an impressive assortment of plus-size swimwear, so you're bound to find a style that suits you. Consider this flattering two-piece tankini for nearly 40% off.

Shop Amazon

Hanna Nikole Plus Size 2 Piece Athletic Tankini Swimsuit, $, available at Amazon

25% Off OCSTRADE Plus Size Chiffon Flowy Cocktail Dress


Sizes: Large - 4X

Slink around in this flowy piece throughout the summer. This discounted dress would especially be perfect as a plus-size wedding guest dress.

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OCSTRADE Plus Size Chiffon Flowy Cocktail Dress, $, available at Amazon

20% Off AKAMC Medium Support Zip Up Wirefree Sport Bra


Another sports bra pack that should be on your radar these zip-up and crisscross ones are perfect for your next jog or high-impact workout.

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AKAMC Medium Support Zip Up Wirefree Sport Bra, $, available at Amazon

Up To 39% Off Tarse Wide Leg Flowy Lounge Pants


Sizes: Small - 3X

We found one of the best lounge pants on Amazon available in plus sizes, and you're in luck because they're currently discounted. So cart them up and wear them around your home in style.

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TARSE Wide Leg Flowy Lounge Pants, $, available at Amazon

47% Off Ekouaer V-Neck Button Down Cover Up


Sizes: Small - 3X

You've got the Amazon swimsuit, so now you need a cover-up to wear over it. This style is lightweight and sheer, yet covered up enough that you won't feel too exposed in.

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Ekouaer V-Neck Button Down Cover Up, $, available at Amazon

52% Off Sghenr Plus Size Stretch Distressed Skinny Jeans


Sizes: 14 Plus - 26 Plus

Score 40% off these skinny jeans, which you can easily wear time and time again throughout for casual outfits.

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Sghenr Plus Size Stretch Distressed Skinny Jeans, $, available at Amazon

Up To 43% Off Yonique Plus Size Criss-Crossed One Piece Swimsuit


Sizes: 14 Plus - 24 Plus

Whether you'll be vacationing in Italy or Greece this summer (or just want the essence of being in the Mediterranean) consider going for this lemon-printed one-piece.

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Yonique Plus Size Criss-Crossed One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Amazon

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3 Fashion AI Tools Solving Your Personal Style Woes

The artificial intelligence boom has taken over fashion. Over the past year, brands, retailers and fans have jumped on the AI bandwagon to see how this new technology can improve the way we shop and get dressed. 

And it’s all evolving fast. According to the consulting firm McKinsey & Co., generative AI could add anywhere from $150 billion to $275 billion to the apparel, fashion, and luxury sectors, over the next three to five years. Through generative text and image AI tools, fashion brands are able to hyper-personalize customer experiences that range from tailored product suggestions to live chat sessions to help people style themselves. And, of course, that has come with its own set of questions. Brands like Levi’s, for example, have announced that they’ll be using AI-powered models to diversify their e-commerce visuals, prompting concerns about the future of modeling, while a new AI-powered fashion magazine, titled Copy, has sparked concerns over the fate of creatives in fashion. Meanwhile, many consumers are skeptical about the use of their data, especially after the ChatGTP, the famous chatbot launched by the California-based company Open AI, experienced data breaches earlier this year. 

Still, when it comes to styling and shopping, there’s a growing interest from consumers in using artificial intelligence to expedite their decisions. According to Klarna’s “Future of Retail” report, 65% of consumers want a more personalized shopping experience, which for the company includes launching tools like an AI-powered shopping feed that tailors suggestions to match the user’s preferences. Google, on the other hand, is focusing on fine-tuning the virtual try-on experience, based on a recent survey by the company that revealed 68% of online fashion shoppers find it difficult to know if an item will fit them. 

As with any new technology, there’s still much to figure out about artificial intelligence. Yet, when it comes to fashion, it has shown so far that it can simplify our shopping and styling decisions, and even make them more personal. Ahead, take a look at the best three fashion AI tools to try during your next online shopping session

Best For Shopping: Klarna

It may be known mostly for its “buy now, pay later” model, Klarna’s shopping platform, which gathers items from retailers like Farfetch, Macy’s, and Bloomingdale’s, is one of the most practical tools to navigate online shopping. Recently, Klarna upgraded its platform (which can sometimes be very overwhelming, thanks to the wide range of products and retailers available) to an AI-powered feed that tailors suggestions to the customer’s tastes. “Klarna aims to bridge this subjectivity gap by transforming the shopping experience into an intuitive and tailored journey and will continue to explore ways to integrate new technologies, like AI, into our roster of current and upcoming shopping features to make it unique to each and every user’s personal preference,” says Josh van Sant, head of global consumer and product communications at Klarna. 

The company also recently partnered with ChatGPT for a new plugin, which allows users to ask shopping questions through the chatbot and is currently on a beta mode waitlist. “In a world where the shopping experience is evolving rapidly, Klarna is at the forefront of new technologies to ensure our offering of innovative products and features continues to revolutionize the way the world shops,” says Van Sant. 

Best For Styling: Cladwell 

Since Clueless debuted in 1995, we’ve all wondered if we’d ever get to replicate the mesmerizing styling tool from Cher Horowitz’s closet. Cladwell is the closest we’ve ever gotten. The styling platform includes a ChatGPT-powered tool that allows users to catalog their wardrobe and use prompts to get tailored styling recommendations with their own clothes. 

Prior to partnering with ChatGPT, Cladwell, which has already had over one million downloads, was powered through a proprietary algorithm since 2019, but, according to its founder and CEO Erin Flynn, the recent developments in AI led her to think of the chatbot to propel the algorithm even further. “I didn’t want to release something if it’s just the same as Chat GPT because anyone can use that,” she says. “It’s different because all the data that we are using is from the person’s closet.” Aside from the user’s closet, which people can catalog manually, Cladwell has a database of over 15,000 items that people can add to their digital wardrobe. 

Currently, the Cladwell app is free with premium features available for $7.99 a month. 

Best For A Fitting Room Experience: Google Try-On

If trying on clothes in person is your definition of a nightmare, Google’s AI-powered try-on feature may be the solution. Launched earlier this year, the tool allows users to see how an item would fit a similar body type. “The models and the poses are totally real,” says Lilian Rincon, senior director of Google Shopping, referring to the images used for the virtual try-on. “We’re able to use diffusion to superimpose what the clothing would look like on the model.” According to Rincon, the tool also adapts to the sizes offered by the retailer, so users can only try on items on body types that match the sizing available. Right now, the tool is only available for women’s tops, but Google plans to expand its try-on offering soon. 

Although there are other virtual try-on options available, Google’s tool simplifies the process by using already available images to visualize the clothes, instead of having the users submit photos of themselves. “The learning is that people often prefer just this, just trying it on somebody that looks like them,” says Rincon. 

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