ONION
ONION is a versatile padded vest designed to adapt to different climates. Its front and side zippers allow for adjustable warmth, making it suitable as both an outer layer and a middle layer for outdoor activities or commuting.
BACKGROUND
Whether it's daily commuting or outdoor walking and hiking, people often adopt a layered dressing approach. However, if they need to remove the middle layer while walking, they often have to take off the outer jacket and backpack. Therefore, it made me think about how to enable people to quickly remove the extra layers when they feel hot.
DESIGN PROCESS
During the early stages, Mid-journey was used to explore and brainstorm many designs that provided ample inspiration for the cut. The process also involved using CLO3D to create patterns and simulate the padded effect. Finally, the finished product was rendered using Blender Cycle.
DESIGN FEATURES
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Comfort in Motion: Armpit-Zipper Feature for Swift Layer Removal during Physical Activity
The ONION padded vest features side zippers that can be easily opened to the armpits, allowing the wearer to shed a layer of clothing while wearing an outer jacket without stopping to take off a backpack or clothing during physical activity. The concept was inspired by the creator's observation and personal experience of feeling overheated and stuffy while urban commuting, while still needing windproof protection. This product offers a practical solution to the challenge of maintaining warmth and dryness while removing excess clothing.
Gear-friendly Design: Hassle-free Portability of Trekking Poles and Long Items
The inclusion of large pockets and adjustable elastic cords in the design allows users to conveniently carry hiking poles or other long items. The spacious pockets provide ample storage space, accommodating the length and bulk of items such as trekking poles, walking sticks, or even tent poles. These pockets are strategically positioned to ensure easy access and secure storage, enabling hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to have their necessary equipment readily available without the need for additional bags or attachments.
CMF DESIGN
Based on the design theme and application scenario, a mood board was created for exploring the colors, materials, and finishes. The aim was to extract inspiration from the scenery of nature and the city.
Trend Research
For many years, incorporating sportswear into daily clothing has become commonplace. People prioritize their health and fitness, and the growing popularity of activities like yoga and fitness has fueled the rise of sportswear brands like Lululemon. Clothing serves as a means of expressing one's identity, and individuals actively choose to wear sportswear in their daily lives to showcase their exercise habits and lifestyle attitudes.
During the pandemic, people's awareness of the environment and disasters has heightened. This awareness has indirectly sparked the trend of "gorpcore" in 2021 and 2022. Gorpcore refers to the fashionable incorporation of functional outdoor apparel, such as hiking or walking gear, into everyday outfits. These garments are designed with excellent breathability, waterproofing, and lightweight features, offering both functionality and comfort for daily commutes. Notable brands in this category include Arc'teryx, Salomon, Oakley, and others.
Fashion brands and streetwear brands have actively engaged with these functional apparel brands, fostering collaborations to attract a broader customer base. Collaborations such as Salomon with Maison Margiela and Comme des Garcons, Oakley with Brain Dead and Palace, and Beams with Arc'teryx have facilitated exciting exchanges between different consumer groups. Moreover, people's increased environmental consciousness has led them to seek clothing that is long-lasting, functional, and versatile across various settings.
In summary, considering the sustained popularity of this trend, I believe it will continue to thrive as individuals increasingly value clothing that combines style, functionality, and environmental sustainability.
Reports and Trend Analysis
Brand Collaborations
Defining Target Audience and Creating Mood Boards
I have identified two primary target groups for this product and have created personalized mood boards for each of them. The first group, named "Everyday Efficiency Seekers," comprises individuals who prioritize practicality and functionality in their daily lives. They seek clothing that offers comfort, durability, and convenience, allowing them to effortlessly transition between various activities. The second group, known as "Style-conscious Trendsetters," consists of fashion-savvy individuals who value clothing and styling as a means of self-expression. They keep up with the latest trends and aspire to create unique and visually appealing outfits.
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Through relevant reports and research, I have delved into the brands and products that both of these target groups are likely to favor. I have extracted the frequently appearing colors and narrowed them down to four key colors: two neutral colors, one targeting the female demographic, and one specifically for the most daring color enthusiasts. Finally, I have established these four colors as the ultimate color strategy.
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