The future design direction of Smart Clothing development

Literature indicates that Smart Clothing applications, the next generation of clothing and products, have been struggling to enter the mass market because the consumers’ needs have not been recognised. Moreover, the design direction of Smart Clothes unclear and unfocused. Nevertheless, a clear design direction is necessary for all development. Therefore, this research aims to identify the design directions of the Smart Clothes industry by conducting a questionnaire survey and focus groups its major design contributors. The results reveal that the current strategy of embedding wide range of electronic functions in a garment is not suitable. This is primarily because it not match the users’ requirements, purchasing criteria and lifestyle. The results the respondents’ preference for personal healthcare and sportswear applications suit their lifestyle, are aesthetically attractive, and provide a practical function.