Cementing her status as one of fashion’s most cherished innovators (not that we would ever question it), Iris Apfel has now launched her own line of wearable tech.
The 94-year-old style icon, who has never strayed into tech territory before, revealed her new ‘Wisewear’ collection in Las Vegas this week: a selection of jewellery that allows wearers to monitor their health, and keep track of their physical activities.
“There is a definite need for this because there are a lot of people who won’t run around doing business looking like they are going to the gym,” Apfel told Mashable. “Most (wearables are) quite hideous, and I don’t run around in sweatpants.”
The collection currently only consists of three bracelets: the “classic” Kingston, the “modern” Duchess and the “body and edgy” Calder. However, Apfel has big plans to expand the line – branching out into more characteristic statement pieces, as well as necklaces, brooches and men’s accessories. “If a technology is going to strive to save my life, then at least take the next step to make me look good while doing it,” she added.
Given that the icon is nearly a century old, the Wisewear line is an amazing achievement. Each piece is a great example of forward-thinking fashion – coming complete with built-in geolocated distress messaging, activity tracking and haptic feedback. You can even keep track of your mobile notifications by receiving real time alerts throughout the day.
“While technology is measured by the ability to invent something new, something novel, fashion is measured by the ability to introduce a design that can remain forever classic,” Apfel shared. “Novelty can compete with tomorrow, but to create something classic is timeless innovation.”
The pieces are now on sale for $300 each (around £200), and can be purchased online at WiseWear.com.
