Ways to save time and money

Technology has changed how we shop, and the latest innovations are making it easier, safer and (in some cases) cheaper to speed through your shopping list.

Our Lab pros say these trends and services are the ones to watch.

Futuristic mirrors

When Jane Jetson needed to get dressed, she’d step behind a screen that projected different outfits onto her body. We’re almost there! Neiman Marcus stores in California and Texas are piloting Memory Mirrors from MemoMi that let customers create films of themselves from every angle. Compare footage to help you decide between, say, skinny and bootcut jeans. (Users download the store app and create a unique login to keep the images private.) Intel, which powers the technology, says the mirrors will be at more chains in 2016. At Rebecca Minkoff boutiques in New York City, San Francisco and Los Angeles, dressing-room mirrors ID what you’re trying on (using sensors on tags) and suggest other items you might like. And if the dress you snagged is too big, you can ask via a few taps on the mirror, for another size to be brought to you.

‘Talking’ stores

Rosie the robot was more than the Jetsons’ maid — she was a font of information. Through “beacon” technology, stores are offering similarly personalized assistance: Download a brand’s app and opt into its in-store program. When you arrive, sensors placed throughout the store can tell what department you’re in and zap relevant product info and deals to your phone. Macy’s uses the technology (through the Shopkick app) to send offers from its weekly ads; GameStop lets your preteen view exclusive video-game trailers; and Target sends discounts to your phone and indicates which clothing items near you are trending on Pinterest. By the holidays, a new feature will sort your shopping list based on the most direct path through the store.

Next-level shoes

Family shoe shopping rarely is a walk in the park. Luckily, cool tools are delivering happy feet. For Dad, the Left Shoe Company in Los Angeles and New York City will do a 3-D scan of his feet (it’s a series of camera shots, not an X-ray, so there’s no radiation risk) and creates a digital file of his specs. When he needs a new pair, he orders a style (online or instore) that matches his size and width. Apps let you assess kids’ shoe sizes before you go to the store by either scanning each child’s foot on a tablet (Foot Fairy) or using a digital measuring stick (Pediped). (The tech needs refinement, but it’s coming along.) And you can find your dream pair, thanks to Shoes of Prey: Select everything from heel height to fabric (online or in-store at select Nordstrom locations), and they’ll be shipped to you in two to four weeks.