A Brief History of Wearables

Abstract

As the world becomes more connected, our attention is increasingly divided. Clothing and accessories, when chosen carefully, can provide relief and assistance. For example, by adding more function to an outfit, you can consolidate the number of objects you need and make yourself more efficient when mobile. The ability to access e-mail or schedule an appointment on the go opens up new possibilities for where and how you can work. This chapter looks at the evolution of some of the earliest wearable technologies and the role they have played in fashion, technology, and society.