Runway Show Highlights Wireless Fashion And Devices

CTIA WIRELESS 2007®, the world’s largest event for the wireless industry, has awarded Ozan Cakmakci of the University of Central Florida the second annual Fashion In Motion scholarship for his Eyeglass-based display design. Ozan is currently a student in UCF’s College of Optics and Photonics and has been involved in research and development in the ODALab. CTIA WIRELESS® ran March 27-29 at the Orange County Convention Center.

Honored for his innovative entry and showcased in the finale runway show, Ozan Cakmakci is the recipient of the $10,000 Scholarship awarded by CTIA WIRELESS® to the most outstanding wireless entry. Numerous submissions were received and featured in the Fashion In Motion scholarship competition, which takes place this week during CTIA WIRELESS®.

The Eyeglass-based display is a revolutionary new user interface that enables consumers to watch multimedia content or view emails and documents, just as one would do on a portable computer or cell phone. The wearable device allows for hands-free operation.

“Students were asked to combine wireless technology and fashion to produce products with a vision of the future in wearable wireless communication technology,” said Robert Mesirow, show director and vice president of CTIA WIRELESS®. “The designs were outstanding and our judges were impressed with the level and sophistication of the designs. We extend our congratulations to Ozan for his innovative design.”

Participants submitted their designs of either existing or prototype products, and were judged by leaders from the technology and fashion industries. Entries were judged on innovation and creativity; viability; applicability to culture and lifestyle; and fashion and style.

Judges included: Jennifer Schonborn, editor, Elle Magazine; Dr. Alexandra Fede; and Dr. Jenny Tillotson of Sensory Design and Technology Limited.

Attendees were also able to participate in judging by texting their choice for the best student project shown. Voting results will be posted on ELLE Mobile at Wap.elle.com. Fashion In Motion voting is sponsored by ELLE and ELLEgirl.

The CTIA Fashion In Motion runway show is a collection of innovative and creative products and prototypes in the wearable wireless arena. This couture-style fashion show features the latest wireless devices, accessories, technical textiles, smart fabrics and fashions that are available today, as well as a look at designs of the future.

This year’s Fashion in Motion sponsors include Samsung, Skinit, T-Mobile, Motorola, La Perla, Alexandra Fede, Nokia, Sony Ericsson, Chatt Plus, Panda International, Digit Wireless, ELLE, ELLEgirl, Gizmag.com, Peruse, adidas by Stella McCartney, Stylefuture and USA Today.

Last year’s winner of the $10,000 Fashion in Motion Scholarship was Manon Maneenawa of the University of Bridgeport, for his Triple Watch Cell Phone design.

Source: CTIA WIRELESS 2007