I feel like every day I’m introduced to a new model of AI, and I need to make a conscious effort to keep up with it, especially to get the most value out of my ChatGPT subscription. Before starting this course, I had never really thought about the differences between General AI, Generative AI, Deep Learning AI, and so on. However, I’ve become much more aware of the types of AI I use in my daily life and how I can apply them to everyday questions and tasks.
To get more hands-on and fully utilize ChatGPT’s generative capabilities, I decided to ask him to help choosing which clothing items I should purchase. For a task to be considered “generative,” the AI needs to create new content (e.g., images, music, code) rather than simply analyze existing information. So, I asked it to generate images of the outfits I had in mind so I could better visualize them.
I’ve been wanting to buy a new coat for a while, but I kept putting it off because it usually takes me a long time to decide on the fit and color I want, and then even longer to find a store that sells something similar. To make this process more efficient, I first shared a link to my Pinterest board so he could know my preferences. Then, I asked it to search for coats I might like, and it returned a list of potential options with images and store links. This part of the process was more of a general AI function, involving search and curation.
^^ One of the suggestions that he gave me
Based on the items I liked most, I then provided ChatGPT with a screenshot of a dress I already owned and asked it to generate images of full outfits that included different coats. Before generating, I also gave my height and clothing size so that the proportions would look more realistic. This allowed me to clearly imagine how each piece might look on me, without actually having to try them on.
^^ Output of the generated image.
I found this use of ChatGPT incredibly helpful because it saves me a lot of time. Normally, it would take me at least 18 minutes to narrow down my options to a few stores, and then even more time to visit the shops and try things on. With generative AI, I was able to visualize my outfit options quickly and efficiently.
One way I could improve this process even further would be to provide ChatGPT with a full-body photo of myself. That way, the generated outfits could be customized to my actual body shape and features. In the future, it would be great if more clothing websites started integrating GenAI tools that allow customers to virtually try on clothes. This could completely change the online shopping experience, making it faster, more personal, and much more convenient.
This is a great, practical example. It’s so easy to just lump all “AI” into one bucket, but the way you broke it down is perfect. Using general AI for the search and then switching to generative AI for the visualization is a brilliant workflow.
I’ve been thinking a lot about how these tools can solve real, everyday problems beyond just writing text, and this is a perfect use case. The time-saving aspect is the real game-changer. You’re spot on about the future of this, the second that virtual try-on becomes standard, online shopping will never be the same. Thanks for sharing!
Your post was very relatable! I´ve also used ChatGPT for clothing advice before, and I totally get how much easier decision-making becomes when you can visualize your outfit options. Sharing your Pinterest board is a very smart idea, I´ll make sure to use it next time! GenAI can be very practical when it comes to personalizing results to your specific case, which is why I think using a full-body photo next time is going to make the process even more accurate and specific. I wonder what you thought about the generated images and how accurate or realistic you found them. You could test this out after you have tried some clothes in real life to compare how helpful ChatGPT was!