Google launches style search

By

Kate Dingwall

Published
Apr 14, 2017

Google has just launched an interesting new addition to its image search function, dubbed ‘style ideas.’ The feature lets users browse images for outfit ideas and other product categories by searching through 'inspirational lifestyle images’.

Julie Enthoven, Google’s Associate Product Manager, stated in a blog post, “Image Search is full of pics to help you find inspiration—whether it's places to travel, items to purchase or shots of your favorite celebs, art, and memes. But when it comes to fashion, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why today, we’re introducing a new feature called “style ideas” in the Google app for Android and mobile web, which will surely help boost your search style IQ. Now while perusing fashion product images, Image Search will surface a grid of inspirational lifestyle images and outfits that showcase how the product can be worn in real life.”

Similar to Pinterest, Style ideas will allow users to further visualize the items they are searching for on Google by searching through a database of street style and other inspirational images.

The feature will also let users search for items that resemble a given product. This means the user can search for luxury items and Google will provide several lower-cost products that have a similar aesthetic. Google will also be able to provide items in other product categories that may suit a user's taste. For example, if a user searches for a handbag, the algorithm will suggest sunglasses or jewelry that the user may also like. 

These features are now available on Google’s Search app, as well as on Google web browsers.