Zegna's 'iJacket' lets you talk to the coat

(Credit: Gizmag)

In an odd way, the fashion industry may be uniquely qualifed to keep pace with consumer technology. Both fields, after all, can change with the wind--and often do.

Ermenegildo Zegna is becoming something of a poster child for that marriage, as shown last year with its iPod jacket and continuing with such innovations like its solar collar. Now, using "smart fabric" made by Eleksen--maker of such crazy stuff as a double-sided fabric keyboard--Zegna has created a coat that employs Bluetooth technology that can be used for mobile phone conversations.

The "iJacket" is a piece of "communication clothing" that functions much like other wired (or wireless) apparel, with controls sewn into the sleeves and collar, Gizmag says. It's waterproof too, which is good not just to weather the natural elements but also to protect against the occasional spilled chai latte.