Examining the Expressive Functions of Fashion-Tech in Six Conceptual Clothing Collections by Hussein Chalayan

Smart clothing and wearable technologies, with their ability to interact with the environment and individuals, record user experiences and emotions, and offer extensive technological capabilities, have created a new platform for expression and the presentation of philosophical and critical concepts. Fashion-tech, as the intersection of fashion and technology, has expanded the traditional boundaries of clothing design, showcasing new dimensions of expression and functionality. This study aims to explore the role of fashion-tech in creating expressive works by analyzing six selected collections by Hussein Chalayan, one of the most prominent conceptual fashion designers. The collections include  Before Minus Now , One Hundred and Eleven , Airborne , Readings , Ready to Wear , and Room Tone . Using a descriptive-analytical approach and content analysis method, the research examines the expressive and functional aspects of these works. Findings reveal that Chalayan, by leveraging innovative technologies, has transcended the limitations of traditional clothing, transforming garments into tools for sensory interaction and user engagement. These works position fashion-tech not merely as a functional tool but as a medium for expressing complex philosophical and social concepts.