TechCouturism, an Alternative Showcase for New Fashion Designers

Abstract

In the age of the new millennium a global phenomenon has emerged where many products and designers have explored the infinite possibilities of the fashion and technology interaction. The digital means of the communication industry coined a varied and interchangeable array of terminologies, such as wearables, fashion technology, and wearable devices, without considering evident conceptual and purpose differences between the artifacts. The authors recognize the creative and widespread communication potential of this trend and understand the importance of defining precise characteristics of a distinguishable technology-fashion integration. After analyzing the case studies of Hussein Chalayan, CuteCircuit and Iris van Herpen, the authors suggest the neologism TechCouturism as an ideological movement that reconciles technology and the combination of textile crafts and design typical of haute couture. Finally, research on the topic has come to recognize the term TechCouturism as a marketing means for innovative and creative talents searching for acknowledgement among multiple competitors.