It was only a matter of time before high-tech solutions and devices revolutionised one of the biggest consumer markets in the world.
With wearables embedded in clothes that can monitor heat, cold or UV, to man-made, biodegradable fabrics, and made-to-order clothes enabled by AI and 3D design technologies, the US$2.4 trillion global industry is undergoing a massive makeover, says Beth McGroarty, research director of the Global Wellness Institute. Behind it, she believes, is a move towards more conscious consumerism.
Also fuelling new investment opportunities is our continuing love affair with tech, as well as a desire for convenience and personalised clothing solutions.
SMART ATTIRE
An era of ‘active wellness clothing’ that is connected, intelligent and healing is rising; think “anti-bacterial clothes and items that can heal or moisturise your body,” according to McGroarty. “Ralph Lauren’s PoloTech shirt monitors heart rate, stress and energy output; SUPA makes smart, heart rate monitoring bras; Wearable X makes connected yoga pants that vibrate to guide users through yoga postures and sequences,” she lists.
Currently 6.9 million units of smart clothing are being shipped worldwide, according to research company Gartner. It forecasts a rise to 19.91 million in 2022.
There are clothes that control air flow around the body from Swiss tech-sports brand Odlo, and clothes that help our bodies rejuvenate like Under Armour’s Athlete Recovery Sleepwear, created with superstar quarterback Tom Brady, which reflects infrared healing energy.
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