Short and simple suggestion:
When you do not own a ship, you can still access it, by a Preview option, which will allow you to see it.
Currently, we do not have an ability to preview a ship and to apply some customization options at the same time.
I am suggesting, that Customization option should also be available, but it cannot be applied, only selected, since Preview Mode is activated. That would show, how would such ship look like.
This is just meant for a visual reference, especially, if you try to make some good screenshots for some contest.
Also, do not forget about this, since it is related, to ensure such possibility in full.
Do not forget to vote!
Thank you.