Readings:

"Fashioning The Future: Tomorrow's Wardrobe"
"Extreme Textiles"

Thoughts on the Readings

Historically, fashion's expression of technology relies on the "imagery of science." I believe the reason why wearable technologies hasn't significantly advanced is because there is a disconnect in communication between the engineers and the creatives. The cost and variety of new materials are not readily available for research. Some of the limits include programmable textiles, low-voltage conductivity, and the reliability of these these materials.

There are some interesting works by Softswitch and Rachel Wingfield, both looking for inspiration in history. Softswitch designed a jacket for snowboarders, which was inspired by an astronaut's glove, to control and play music. Rachel Wingfield's designs help people with Seasonal Affective Disorder, specifically, light affecting mood. I am interested in making "play" more meaningful with wearables.