Radical Prototype: 10/16
A Gentle Intervention in Digital Commerce
The Intervention
A browser-based overlay triggers on add-to-cart/checkout and asks: "Do you have something similar?" A gentle, judgment-free pause that enables conscious choice.
Key Features
Reflection Prompts
Before checkout (or when user hovers over the add to cart or checkout button), a pop-up card appears with simple, evidence-based reflection questions:
- How many similar items do you already own?
- How many times do you think you'll wear this in the next year?
- What would happen if you waited 24 hours before buying?
Users can set their own "reflection intensity" (light prompts vs. deeper nudges).
Closet AI Comparison
AI scans past purchase history, saved receipts, or user-uploaded closet photos. When they hover over an item (e.g., a Zara blouse), the extension:
- Shows side-by-side images of similar items they already own
- Highlights overlap in color, style, and usage occasion
- Provides a "cost per wear" projection based on their closet data
Impact Awareness
A small tag overlays the item page with environmental and ethical cues:
- Estimated water usage of item
- Carbon footprint equivalence (e.g., "= 50 miles of driving")
- Quick fact like: "Most fast fashion items are worn fewer than 10 times"
Not judgmental, but framed as informational.
Time Buffer
Option to add a "cool-down timer" (e.g., 24-hour waitlist) for certain websites.
Items can be added to a "Reflection Wishlist," where the user can revisit with fresh perspective.
Gamified Goals
Users set personal sustainability or spending goals (e.g., "Limit 2 new pairs of shoes per season").
Dashboard shows:
- Items purchased vs. avoided
- Money saved
- Impact reduced (water, emissions, waste)
Design Principles
Non-Judgmental
Questions rather than commands. Empowers choice without guilt or shame.
Contextual
Connects new purchases to existing wardrobe, making personal inventory psychologically present.
Timely
Intervenes at the exact moment of decision when behavior can still change.
Brief
A speed bump, not a roadblock. Seconds of reflection, not minutes of friction.