Whilst researching into smart fashion at the beginning of the project I came across Pauline Van Dongen a design studio that specilises in wearable technology. During my research I had found it difficult to find smart fashion that was particularly fashionable and where the design aesthetic had not been compromised for the technology. The work of this studio however focuses on creating garments that are wearable and fashionable containing the latest technological advancements. The website states that:

TECHNOLOGY IS NOT THE STARTING POINT OF OUR DESIGNS, IT IS NEVER ABOUT ‘TECHNOLOGY FOR TECHNOLOGY’S SAKE’. OUR DESIGNS BEGIN AND END WITH THE BODY, OR EVEN MORE SPECIFICALLY: A MOVING BODY IN SPACE.

Technology is something I would like to incorporate into my work so this studio has provided great inspiration to see how they have created designs where it has been successfully included in a fashionable garment. Although embroidery is not used one of the designs, the solar shirt, does give the impression of embroidery in how the solar film has been used.

Solar shift 2014

The solar shirt was created in collaboration with Holst Centre using film solar cells and integrated electronics in fabric. The following video shows how the solar shirt can be used in everyday life:

This was one of many projects that have been completed incorporating technology successfully into a fashionable garment that can be worn everyday. Now that i'm sampling ideas and looking at techniques to incorporate into my work I have revisited these designs as inspiration for how I could use smart textile applications for fashion. Although no embroidery has been used I can take inspiration from how the technology has been placed on the garments and where it has been used.

I also came across a blog for the studio which has some great inspirational photos alongside the work they have created.

http://paulinevandongen.tumblr.com/