Maybe it’s because I’m in NY, maybe because I work in digital, but lately here “wearable tech” is such a buzzword that it starts to be used to drum up excitement even when it’s not strictly “wearable tech”.
At the beginning of December, Ralph Lauren announced the new high tech version of its Ricky handbag. And yes, it has been called wearable tech by the venerable NYTimes, but I dare to disagree and call this tech chic, for two very simple reasons: a) you carry a handbag, you don’t wear it; b) let’s face it: a battery charger and a light incorporated in the bag, do not really possess the innovative character usually associated with wearables.
Ralph Lauren Ricky bag with battery charger and light incorporated
That is not to say that this high tech version of a classic is not innovative. It is about time that manufacturers, especially those in the luxury market, start to incorporate some tech in women’s accessories and not only men’s gadgets. As technology is everyday more woven into our lives, our daily accessories need to adapt and maintain their utility by helping us navigate our world online and offline or soon they will be replaced. Even some simple additions like a battery charger or GPS may go a long way to improve our connected 21st century lives.
It is also the second time in 3 months that Ralph Lauren makes news in wearable tech. During the last US Open in August, it announced, Polo Tech, a high-performance sport shirt with bio-sensors. So tip o’the hat to the brand ‘s commitment to this new industry and also for the flair to blend such a classic American look and high tech.
The mix of US classic style and high-tech solutions seems to be the path followed by some of Lauren’s direct competitors. Since September NY Fashion Week, it has been a succession of fashion tech news from top American designers and it really looks like US fashion is enthusiastically embracing technology, not only in their marketing efforts, but also into their fabrics and accessories.
Michael Kors, another quintessentially American designer, has expanded his successful line of phone wristlets with signature phone covers, battery chargers and even earphones. Not the cutting edge of tech, but a good start, or may be even an excellent start since that they are already available online at Michael Kors. You can get it for Christmas, no wait!
Finally, Tommy Hilfiger has introduced a limited edition of solar powered jackets for the 2014 holiday season. The jacket, available in women and men style, consists of a detachable set of ultra thin solar panels, which connect to a battery pack in the front with 2 USB ports.
Tommy Hilfiger Solar-Powered Jacket
Of course, it is not just the big names that are entering the new wearable tech playground, but also the youngest and more innovative designers have been ready to take advantage of the increased range of creativity opened by the new technologies. here is a brief rundown of the most fab wearable tech:
I recently wrote about Opening Cerimony & Intel MICA smart bracelet.
While the US Queen of Flats, Tory Burch, partnered with Fitbit for her high tech bracelet and pendant .
Rebecca Minkoff, the rising star of US fashion. has chosen a direction similar to Michael Kors and last September introduced a line of chic tech accessories.
There is no doubt that, if the last months of 2014 are setting the pace for the coming year, 2015 will definitely be the year of Geek Chic! Stay tuned…