Virtual Models

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Virtual Model

Digital fashion models have been promoted, using the latest in Computer-generated imagery, but these are usually not avatars, since their creators and/or the operators of Motion capture systems which are often used to make them move are kept in the background or ignored, as if the model had its own invented personality.

Many digital models using simpler Computer-generated imagery techniques are used in Web commerce to model fashion corresponding to a user's body shape, size and look or to give an idea of the results of exercise and diet. They are relatively static but fully interactive avatars of their users.

Large U.S. retailers such as L.L. Bean and Sears use virtual models as a way to have their customers "try" their clothing in their digital stores. An international company such as Lands' End uses virtual models on its British, Japanese and German sites as well as its U.S. one.

Buddy icons have been used by entertainment companies, such as record labels or movie studios, as a form of word of mouth advertising. Buddy icons advertising the releases of films or albums are available through Instant Messaging software or company/band websites.