Abstract: Visual appearance is a significant aspect of how we perceive others and how we want to be perceived. With items such as eyewear, make-up and facial jewelry the style, colour, size not only impact how others perceive us based upon the selections themselves but also how these fit or suit the user's face, which is unique. With online retailing the purchaser does not get feedback as in bricks-and-mortar retailing from friends, retail assistants etc. At best the user is exposed to a basic recommendation system which is generally procedural based with a priori aesthetic rules and user classification. However, users are often incorrect in their classification of themselves whilst the aesthetic rules are hidden, can contradict, and do not take into account current fashion, age or culture. Embodiments of the invention provide automated recommendation engines for retail applications based upon simply acquiring an image of the user.