When fashion meets tech
We’ve all heard of wearable tech, but what happens when fashion and technology brands choose to collaborate? The results are usually… mixed. But as wearable tech gets more popular the line between the two is being blurred, so we’ve picked out some good - and some not so good - examples of tech and fashion teaming up. Which ones make it onto your catwalk?
When fashion meets tech
We’ve all heard of wearable tech, but what happens when fashion and technology brands choose to collaborate? The results are usually… mixed. But as wearable tech gets more popular the line between the two is being blurred, so we’ve picked out some good – and some not so good – examples of tech and fashion teaming up. Which ones make it onto your catwalk?
Puma x Polaroid RS-0 and RS-100
Taking photos doesn’t usually require you to wear a particular uniform, but if you’re snapping away with a retro Polaroid, it’d be rude not to pair the classic instant camera with some of Puma’s suitably retro RS trainers. Based on the Running System range from the 1980s and with nods to Polaroid’s rainbow colour spectrum logo, whichever of the two pairs you choose to pick up, they’re sure to confirm your reputation as a, er, snappy dresser.
Levi’s Commuter X Jacquard
Back in 2007, Levi’s made a pair of jeans with an iPod connector and a set of controls stitched into one of the pockets, to free us all from the tyranny of taking it out to change tracks. In the decade since, the company seems to have switched allegiance, because the Commuter X Jacquard denim jacket was made in collaboration with Google, allowing the wearer to control their Bluetooth-connected phone by tapping and brushing the sleeve. The downside? You can only wash it 10 times.
Nike PG2 PlayStation
To most people in the UK, Paul George is just a very tall bloke you wouldn’t want to end up standing behind at a gig. To a basketball fan, though, he’s an NBA All-Star who plays small forward for Oklahoma City Thunder, which is somewhat ironic considering he stands 6’9 tall. George is also a keen gamer, which is why Sony asked him to design these PlayStation-inspired trainers, complete with light-up tongues, eyelets in the colour of the console’s famous controller icons, and a code on the back to download a special PG theme for your PS4.
Atari Speakerhat
Of all the industries that needed disrupting, we could probably think of a few that need it more than hats. Train travel, for example. Or estate agents. They need disrupting right into space. But Atari saw the humble baseball cap and decided it needed Bluetooth and a pair of speakers built into the peak. There’s a microphone in there somewhere too, so you can use it to make calls as well as bother everyone around you with your music, just bear in mind they’ll be able to hear every word that’s said.
Hermès Apple Watch
How do you make an expensive Apple Watch even pricier? That’s right, you get French fashion house Hermès involved. Not to be confused with the dreadful courier company – there’s no way those drivers wear watches – Hermès is best known for making leather goods and that’s where its Apple Watch involvement is most noticeable, with 14 straps available, plus an exclusive watch face. Just as well considering the cheapest one is £1249.
Tommy Jeans Xplore
Considering it’s no longer the ‘90s you might be surprised to see Tommy Hilfiger on this list, but apparently the decade that brought us Global Hypercolour, Sunny Delight and Gladiators is very much back in fashion. The Tommy Jeans Xplore range of t-shirts, jumpers, jackets and more, has Bluetooth chips sewn in, which tell an accompanying app how often you wear each one. You know, in case the smell doesn’t give it away organically…
Nintendo Vans
As a general rule, wearing anything with video game characters on it should be confined to the sofa on a hungover Sunday, but you can make an exception for these Nintendo Vans. Available in high-top, slip-on and standard lace-ups, there’s a psychedelic Mario pattern and some covered in Zelda characters for any unashamed Ninty zealots, but it’s the more understated pairs with the platform pattern and classic NES controller design that most appeal. The ‘Game Over’ design on the soles is just the icing on the cake.
Dolce & Gabbana x Smeg: Sicily Is My Love
Kitchen appliances tend to be pretty boring: black, white, beige, or silver if you’re lucky. Not if you pay a visit to Dolce or Gabbana’s gaff. With this range of products, which includes a toaster, coffee maker and kettle among others, it looks like the brief was to cram in as many colours as possible. Inspired by the landscape of Southern Italy, they’re an offering you just can’t refuse.
