LEDs used as fashion accessory

Whilst scientists have attempted to integrate electronic technology into clothing for many years, those more concerned with the fashionable side of dressing up have also been harnessing various contemporary systems in more consumer-friendly ways.

This is where techno-centric fashion label CuteCircuit comes in, as it specialises in creating clothing that’s not only beautiful but also packed with imaginative technology. One example of its work is the M-Dress, which integrates a mobile SIM card, antenna and calling capabilities, but its most impressive and inspiring projects have involved LED systems embedded in glamorous evening wear.

One of CuteCircuit’s LED dresses, which incorporates a network of over 24,000 individual LEDs to form a multicolour display, is actually on display at a museum in the US. Elsewhere it has been commissioned to create LED dresses for pop icons including Katy Perry, resulting in much publicity and debate because of the unique functionality offered by the frocks.

The dresses with integrated LED systems are powered by tiny watch batteries which CuteCircuit cleverly disguises under the label, while a small circuit allows for the LEDs to be programmed into a sequence of the wearer’s choosing.

The major problem with the LED dresses in their current state is that they are relatively unwieldy and not really practical for extensive wearing. But comfort and convenience are not really a concern for those who are looking to light up like a million stars when they hit the town.

CuteCircuit’s Francesca Rosella said that the LED-based products produced by her label were intended for young people who are looking for inventive, unusual clothes. She said that it was now more widely acceptable to own a piece of wearable technology, with the geeky hang-ups of previous generations melting away into a culture of general acceptance.