Abstract

RetroVerse is a conceptual augmented reality (AR) application that reimagines the vintage fashion shopping experience by addressing the information gaps that often make secondhand purchasing uncertain and inefficient. As the resale market continues to grow, consumers frequently struggle to identify garments, verify authenticity, evaluate condition, compare prices, and determine fit, requiring them to rely on multiple platforms and personal knowledge before making a purchase. To address these challenges, RetroVerse integrates augmented reality, image recognition, and contextual product information into a unified shopping experience. Through video and live garment scanning, users can access brand history, manufacturing information, condition assessments, marketplace price comparisons, and virtual try-on features within a single interface, supporting more informed purchasing decisions. The project was developed through literature review, competitive analysis, user journey mapping, and an iterative design process to identify user needs and refine the proposed solution. The resulting prototype demonstrates how interaction design, information visualization, and immersive technologies can be combined to improve both digital and physical vintage shopping experiences. Although RetroVerse remains a conceptual design, it establishes a framework for future development and illustrates the potential of augmented reality to enhance user confidence, streamline decision-making, and promote more accessible and sustainable secondhand shopping.

Publication Date

8-3-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Visual Communication Design (MFA)

Department, Program, or Center

Design, School of

College

College of Art and Design

Advisor

Daniel Deluna

Advisor/Committee Member

Adam Smith

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Download

Share

COinS