Smart couture
These gadgets are what you get when fashion and tech collide, writes Nur Zarina Othman
‘JAC’ THE CABLE
IT is not a newly launched technology-meets-fashion item but the Jacquard is more relevant today than when it was first launched.
Jacquard is the first full-scale digital platform for smart clothing. Using touch gestures, you can access different abilities, such as getting directions or skipping to the next song.
Specifically tailored with the urban cyclist in mind, the Levi’s Commuter Trucker Jacket is designed for getting around the city.
Tiny electronics contained in the flexible snap tag connect the Jacquard Threads in the jacket’s cuff to your mobile device.
Life-on-the-go sounds better through Bose wireless headphones as Jacquard now has a Bose Aware Mode that allows you to access noise cancellation right from your cuff.
It also works with your favourite rideshare app. With a gesture, a location too can be saved to your Activity, so you can easily find it later. Convenient.
PRICE: US$350 at Levi.com
SELF-TIE SHOE LACE
WELCOME to the future of footwear. Step into a self-lacing shoe that lights up and adjusts to the shape of your foot and activity in real time.
You run, it runs. You jump, it jumps. It’s a revolution disguised as a robot.
Nike E.A.R.L. (Electric Adaptable Reaction Lacing) is the technology that makes self-lacing shoes possible. It electronically adjusts the lacing, pressure and fit to the contours of your foot.
They are not just shoes. They are a whole interconnected platform, another point — along with your phone, and definitely your Apple Watch Series 4 Nike+ — of connection within the Nike universe.
The Nike Adapt BB is equipped with a custom motor and the gear train senses the tension needed by the foot and adjusts accordingly to keep the foot snug.
PRICE: US$350 at Nike.com
FASHION APPLIANCES
CALLING all fashionistas who have no option but to be in the kitchen — the Dolce & Gabbana X SMEG collaboration is back!
The high-fashion appliance dream collaboration has stunning new launches for this year.
The opulent collection — part of the Sicily is My Love line — features refrigerators, hoods, a hand blender, stand mixer and toaster.
Each appliance is meticulously crafted and tells the story of Italian history, culture, cuisine, and beauty, all through intricate illustrations of Sicily.
PRICE: US$1,500 (about RM6,120) at Elledecor.com
DIAMOND SOUND
OFFERING the same specs as Apple AirPods2, the Lux AirPods models by brikk feature a version with charging case that is coated in a thick layer of gold with two carats of diamonds.
Each ear piece has one carat of perfect VVS Clarity de Colour genuine brilliant cut diamonds. Every stone is hand-set onto the earphones surface with perfection and precision.
PRICE: US$12,995 at Brikk.com
WHAT FASHION SOUNDS LIKE
FENDI’S wireless headphones will be whispering music to your ears. The round case contains two wireless headphones.
Complete with internal battery that lasts up to 60 hours, you will have no problem staying in touch. Its USB port allows this pod to be used as power bank too. Compatible with devices via Bluetooth, the leather casing comes complete with a new Fendi logoshaped applique in gold-finish metalware and is made in Italy. PRICE: US$690 at Fendi.com
COMMUNICATION IS GOLD
THE Lux iPhone XS is the most opulent collection of communication devices available.
The genuine Apple iPhone X 512GB is housed in a custom mirror polished aluminium case with velvet and carbon fibre interior and comes with multiple accessories such as clear cases, screen protection and original cables packed in an outer black presentation box.
The Lux iPhone XS classic collection features an all-surface coated in 24k yellow gold with a robotic engraved medium heptagon pattern.
PRICE: From US$9,995 at Brikk.com
YOGA SENSE
THE Nadi X experience lets you practise yoga on your own terms.
The patented technology comes with integrated sensors and haptic feedback (vibration) to help you improve your yoga.
Nadi X is good for pre- and post-workout at home and wherever you go. It uses Bluetooth Low Energy to connect to your smartphone. You can clip behind the left knee and set the vibrations strength.
The app lets you choose between different workouts according to your preferences.
To wash, either put on hand wash or a gentle cycle. Nadi X can be tumble dried.
PRICE: US$249 at Wearablex.com
PIMP YOUR FITBIT
MADE by Public School for Fitbit, the band is inspired by speed, power and motion.
The limited edition watch band is a non-traditional take on timepieces, another example of a fashion accessory driven by technology.
Fitbit has previously collaborated with American brand Public School to release a limited run of the fitness accessory, celebrating the minimal, sleek designs of Public School combined with the discrete tech from Fitbit.
Together, they created the Axis band in stainless steel and the Type III Paracord bracelet in black.
PRICE: US$295 at Fitbit.com