Whether you’re a retailer, a fashion blogger or a personal stylist, if your small business touches upon the fashion industry in any way, look out. A new trend some are calling “geek chic” should be on your radar.
Forget about the fall from popularity of wearables like Google Glass. From motorized skateboards to solar backpacks to smartwatches and more, this new trend would seem to more than just a passing fad.
The recent Silicon Valley Fashion Week stands as a clear indication.
Before hand, the event’s Facebook page predicted:
“Expect a catwalk with drones, robots, and all sorts of mad inventions from the leading minds in wearable tech and modern lifestyle.
“Trust us, this will be different than anything you’ll see in New York, Paris, or Milan.”
And the event didn’t appear to disappoint. The event featured glow in the dark clothing, a variety of wearables and drones acting as fashion models.
And that’s not all.
A variety of presenters made appearances to show off their products and creations.
Boosted Boards
Ever wish you could get the feel of a snowboard, wakeboard, or surfboard on your skateboard?
No? Well, apparently some people have.
And for those people, Boosted Boards has an interesting product.
The high tech skateboards feature electric motors, breaks and wireless control. The company already has dealers in California (of course), Colorado, Florida, Texas, and Illinois. So, you’ll likely see them soon.
Fiber Optic Dresses
Want that latest accessory that assures all eyes are on you?
How about something that glows in the dark?
Designer Natalie Walsh claims she was inspired to create her unique fashion statements by the fiber optic decorations at a festival.
These might not work for formal wear or as the right outfit for that next big board meeting or presentation. But if you’re headed out to Burning Man and want an outfit to amaze, you might consider Walsh’s creations.
Turn Signal Gloves
Yes, it’s just how it sounds.
If you’re riding your bike and feel the appropriate hand gesture for a left turn just isn’t enough, these gloves, called Zackees, will do the trick.
Admittedly, these gloves would come in handy when biking at night. But at first glance, they’re the kind of item likely to just make you shake your head in wonder.
Drum Pants
If you’ve spent years slapping out your favorite rhythms on your knees, prepare for the next frontier.
Drum Pants provide Midi compatible pads for your pants and feet that let you create the rhythm for your favorite music — without the need for a drum kit.
The company calls it the most intuitive way to play music, and it looks like it would be fun at parties.
But will professional drummers soon be replaced by knee slappers with a wearable rhythm section? It may be too early to tell.
A New Kind of Style
Chris Lindland, CEO of Betabrand, which sponsored the event, told CNet:
It’s giving a runway to people who would never find themselves on a runway normally. That’s people who make wearable tech. It’s people who are developers and hackers and plenty of fashion designers too.”
Hear more of Lindland’s comments and see video from the event below:
Geek Fashion and Your Business
So why should small businesses care about glow in the dark garments and skateboards that can pilot themselves?
Well, if you’re a personal stylist or other fashion consultant, you’ll want to keep track of what’s available.
You’ll know what to recommend depending upon the sensibilities of your clients, especially potentially those in the tech industry or with an eclectic sensibility.
If you’re a fashion blogger, consider that this may be a substantial new trend with subjects you will want to cover for your audience.
And if you’re looking for a new niche, this trend or a part of it may fit the bill.
Retailers, whether online or off, should never assume such products are too wacky for customers. Some have very practical applications. Others just seem fun.
Image: Betabrands/Facebook
Aira Bongco
Are we slowly introducing intergalactic alien wear to our wardrobe? I don’t know. If these things slowly become more functional and even essential, people just might adopt them into their daily lives.