Connected Wearables, Handbags? Yes, Please!

Just when you think everything that can be connected is indeed connected, think again. The fashion world is swiftly embracing the Internet of Things, and the Rebecca Minkoff brand has chosen to take a dive into the digital pool by creating new wearables.

Just ahead of Fashion Week, Rebecca Minkoff recently announced the launch of its connected handbags. The designer will have 10 limited edition bags available at a pop-up shop at the Grove in Los Angeles. Each of these digitally enhanced bags have a hang tag that gives entry to the spring/summer 2017 runway when scanned. Dubbed the #AlwaysOn Midnighter style, this handbag will give tech-savvy buyers something new to consider on their next shopping excursion.

As part of Rebecca Minkoff’s #BornDigital campaign, the brand aims to connect 10 billion pieces of clothes and accessories over the next three years.

“We know that all products in the future will have a digital life as part of the Internet of Things,” explained Uri Minkoff, cofounder and CEO of the brand. “Rebecca Minkoff wants to be first in letting our customers access this new world of experiences, content and services digitally by interacting with our physical designs. Most fashion brands lose sight of their products and customers; this technology now allows us to directly connect with shoppers through our products after purchase. We’re incredibly excited by a born digital future, and you’ll be seeing it integrated across many more of our products later in the year.”

Knowing what may be in store down the road is the key to not only predicting trends but also ensuring that a company is part of those trends. In order for merchants to have a real impact with new technologies, such as IoT-enabled products, they need to have a good implementation plan from start to finish. Now that the IoT is likely here to stay, it’s time to start thinking even further into its future.

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