Imagine carrying your iPhone in a $150 fashion statement designed by the same visionary behind Steve Jobs' legendary black turtleneck. Sounds like a tech-meets-fashion dream, right? Well, Apple just made it a reality. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this a genius fusion of style and functionality, or an overpriced accessory for the elite? Let’s dive in.
Apple recently announced a surprising partnership with Japanese fashion powerhouse ISSEY MIYAKE to launch the iPhone Pocket, a limited-edition accessory that blends art, technology, and everyday utility. This collaboration isn’t just a random pairing—it’s a nod to a decades-long relationship between the two brands. Remember Steve Jobs’ iconic black turtleneck? That was an Issey Miyake creation, and it’s a big part of why this new accessory feels so meaningful. The iPhone Pocket, launching on November 14, is the brainchild of design director Yoshiyuki Miyamae, who previously led ISSEY MIYAKE’s womenswear line. It’s not just a phone holder; it’s a statement piece.
Crafted using a ‘singular 3D-knitted construction,’ the iPhone Pocket is inspired by the concept of ‘a piece of cloth.’ Its stretchy, ribbed design fully encloses your iPhone while allowing you to peek at your screen through its open weave when stretched. And this is the part most people miss: It’s not just for your phone—it can expand to hold AirPods, keys, or other small essentials. Wear it handheld, attach it to your bag, or even sling it across your body. It’s versatility meets high fashion.
The design takes cues from A-POC (A Piece of Cloth), Issey Miyake’s revolutionary 1998 manufacturing system that creates garments from a single piece of 3D-knit fabric. Miyamae, now leading A-POC ABLE ISSEY MIYAKE, describes the iPhone Pocket as an exploration of ‘the joy of wearing your iPhone in your own way.’ It’s a bold statement, but does it justify the price tag? That’s up for debate.
Apple’s VP of industrial design, Molly Anderson, highlights the accessory’s intentional color palette—lemon, mandarin, purple, and more—designed to complement every iPhone model. The short strap version retails for $149.95, while the long strap goes for $229.95. Both are crafted in Japan and compatible with all iPhones. But let’s be real: Is this a must-have, or a luxury only a few can afford?
The history between Apple, Issey Miyake, and Steve Jobs adds another layer of intrigue. In the 1980s, Jobs admired Miyake’s designs for Sony uniforms and even tried to bring a similar concept to Apple employees. Though that idea flopped, it sparked a friendship that led to Jobs’ signature turtleneck collection. Miyake, a pioneer in technology-driven fashion, passed away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of innovation that this collaboration honors.
Here’s the controversial question: Is the iPhone Pocket a brilliant homage to Jobs’ legacy and Miyake’s vision, or a pricey gimmick? Let us know in the comments—we’re curious to hear your take!
