VR in Vera Wang

A Look at Barney’s Virtual Reality Film—Featuring Gorgeous Pieces From The Row, Prabal Gurung & More

Barneys New York is the latest fashion brand to blur the lines between fashion and technology. The retail giant teamed up with NYC’s iconic Martha Graham Dance Company to present a dance performance like you’ve never seen before. Furthermore, the Barneys VR experience is filmed using 360-degree camera technology and is able to be viewed using Samsung VR.

However, the Barneys VR experience features more than just dance.

After all, Barneys is one of the biggest fashion retailers in the world. The dancers don outfits from Prabal Gurung, The Row, Rick Owens and Loewe. And they are stunning to say the least. To see the clothes come alive on the dancers is truly fascinating. Well, for those of us who are obsessed with high fashion, of course.

This Barneys VR experience is the first of its kind. And with groundbreaking fashion, memorable dances and futuristic tech all combining to create this experience, the creators are hoping that it will stick with viewers far beyond their first viewing. Which, I’m sure it will.

“Barneys’ mission is to allow people to interact with our creative content in as many ways as possible, and technology can bring this dance piece to life in an unprecedented way,” says Matthew Mazzucca, Creative Director at Barneys. “Within VR and 360 environments, as well as through the variety of formats we’ve created, no two viewers will have the same experience of the dance, and that’s exciting.”

If you guys don’t have a chance to get to NYC (or Beverly Hills) to check it out, Barneys has some snippets up on their instagram! Or you can view it online through Samsung VR.

A post shared by Barneys New York (@barneysny) on Mar 9, 2018 at 7:15pm PST

A post shared by Barneys New York (@barneysny) on Mar 9, 2018 at 12:34pm PST

A post shared by Barneys New York (@barneysny) on Mar 9, 2018 at 4:48am PST

The Barneys VR experience is available to immerse yourself in at select stores using Samsung Gear VR powered by Oculus. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I’ll get to experience it in New York next month! I’ll keep you guys posted.

Feature image via Barneys.

Tech-Savvy Fashion Designers | VR in Vera Wang — Virtual Reality Tech Blog

Five Fashion Tech Labels You’ll Want to Keep an Eye On—And Wear

Fashion trends come and go. But one thing that I’m pretty sure about, is that fashion tech is here to stay. There are quite a few tech savvy fashion designers that you’ll want to keep and eye on—and wear! Of course, everyday styles still have their charm, but there’s something about wearable tech that’s so alluring.

From 3D-printed garments to smartwatches, purses and everything in between, fashion tech has definitely secured a spot in the closets or tech savvy fashionistas all over.

Here are my fave tech savvy fashion designers that are definitely worth checking out.

A post shared by Junya watanabe (@junyawatanabeofficial) on Mar 4, 2017 at 2:49am PST

1. Junya Watanabe

Junya Watanabe was an apprentice to Rei Kawakubo, the eclectic designer behind cult label Commes des Garçons. Do I need to say anymore? Okay, well he’s also known for his knack of using innovative fabrics and textures. Over the years he’s earned the title of “techno couture” designer because of his futuristic ideas and creatives designs. One of the coolest things he’s created is a solar powered trench coat that provides charging for your smartphone. How convenient is that?

A post shared by Iris van Herpen Official (@irisvanherpen) on Feb 22, 2018 at 7:07am PST

2. Iris van Herpen

First of all, let me point something out: Naomi Campbell and I have something in common. Yes, we both love Iris van Herpen! The designer’s latest collection ‘Ludi Naturae’ examines the natural and manmade landscapes of Earth. It’s 3D printed using leaf-like patterns that are as thin as 0.8mm! If you thought that wearable tech garments were bulky & boring, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by Iris van Herpen’s designs. I mean, Naomi Campbell wore one of her dresses to Milan Fashion Week! That is saying something stylish.

A post shared by Vega Zaishi Wang (@vegazaishiwang) on Nov 20, 2017 at 11:22pm PST

3. Vega Wang

Vega Wang was raised in a family of engineers, which ultimately helped spark her passion for technology. Also, she studied at Central Saint Martins—and that couldn’t have hurt hone her skills either. One of my favourite collections from this tech savvy designer was one inspired by Blue Planet (which I’m also obsessed with). Ultimately, her aesthetic is captivating! It’s no wonder that she’s gathered such a loyal following.

A post shared by ying gao (@livingpod) on Feb 5, 2016 at 4:54pm PST

4. Ying Gao

From the very beginning of her career, Ying Gao was focused on merging technology with style. I mean, look at this dress! It’s so cool. I love the way her collections respond to different elements in whichever environment you’re in—from your gaze to sounds and even just human presence! No doubt, Ying Gao’s designs wow everyone who sees them.

A post shared by DANIT PELEG (@danitpeleg3d) on Aug 19, 2017 at 12:06am PDT

5. Danit Peleg

This brand only launched a year ago, yet has reached incredible success! Danit Peleg’s 3D printed designs are charming, interesting and fashion-forward all at the same time. I could definitely see many of these garments in my wardrobe.

Feature image via CNN.

Virtual Reality Fashion Growth | VR in Vera Wang — Virtual Reality Fashion Blog by Melina Morry

Is Virtual Reality the New Way for Fashion Brands to Grow Their Business?

When people first started hearing about virtual reality many years ago, it seemed impossible to even imagine the impact it would have on the world. However, as technology has advanced, we’ve seen incredible ways in which virtual reality can be used. One of my main interests in VR lies in the world of fashion. After all, virtual reality fashion growth opportunities are endless.

What was once considered “science fiction”, VR now dominates a huge part of the tech industry. There are, of course, still skeptics out there. Yet once people have the opportunity to engage in a VR experience, that can all change. Take me for example. I used to think that VR was dumb, nerdy and not something I would ever want to participate in. And now I have my own VR fashion blog!

Since I started VR in Vera Wang, I’ve already noticed virtual reality fashion growth happening all over the world.

In the past, fashion brands have tapped into emerging markets to stay current and remain innovative. So, why should it be any different with VR?

A post shared by VR in Vera Wang (@vrinverawang) on Sep 18, 2017 at 2:32pm PDT

A lot of people that I meet—and even my own friends—have this major misconception of what virtual reality is and how it can be used. It still has a very “geeky” label attached to it. (Which I’m working to shift into geek chic.) Yet, we’re only at the tip of the virtual reality fashion growth iceberg.

For a lot of fashion brands, virtual reality offers a new way to interact and engage with customers and collections alike. Look at Canadian designer Sid Neigum for instance. Last year, he presented a physical collection at RE\SET fashion week and then had a virtual reality installation to view the clothes again, up-close through an HMD (head-mounted display).

After all, when you think about it, virtual reality could prove to be far more important than mobile in the grand scheme of the industry.

A post shared by VR in Vera Wang (@vrinverawang) on Jul 20, 2017 at 9:13am PDT

Tommy Hilfiger was one of the first brands to adopt a virtual reality experience back in 2015. They invited shoppers into their store to don VR headsets and view their autumn/winter collection through 360° video. Additionally, Coach, Dior, Balenciaga and Topshop have also had their own virtual reality experiences.

However, even though virtual reality fashion growth could be major, not many designers have recently taken advantage of it. First of all, it’s an expensive endeavour, which can deter brands from wanting to commit. Secondly, they aren’t completely convinced that it’s a good investment to make. Furthermore, some skeptics still believe that VR in the fashion world is just a marketing gimmick.

What’s important to remember is that, if you don’t try, you’ll never know. Remember 10 years ago when brands were hesitant to move their business into online shopping? And now look at them! Online shopping racks up billions of dollars each year in Canada. So, even though some people doubt these new technologies, my bets are on virtual reality fashion growth blowing up the market very, very soon.

Dolce & Gabbana Drones — Milan Fashion Week | VR in Vera Wang

Dolce & Gabbana Brings the Future to the Runway with Drones at Milan Fashion Week

Watching Dolce & Gabbana drones carrying purses down a Milan Fashion Week runway was definitely a first for many. And in case you were wondering—yes, the future is here. Insta-famous models were replaced by machinery and it definitely brought a revitalized feeling to the show. No one can say that D&G don’t know how to put on a performance!

Although, I did find this to be slightly out of character for the brand. When I think of Dolce & Gabbana, I don’t necessarily think futuristic. To me they’ve always been a classic, old school Italian brand. They’re more so steeped in tradition than innovation.

But that’s not to say that the Dolce & Gabbana drones weren’t insanely cool—because they definitely were.

A post shared by VR in Vera Wang (@vrinverawang) on Feb 25, 2018 at 2:06pm PST

When guests arrived at the Milan Fashion Week show, they were asked to turn off any wi-fi or hotspot features on their phones. As you can imagine, this might not have gone over well at first considering bloggers, editors and influencers are prone to live-streaming every second of every day.

Once the show began, the audience was so captivated by what was happening that they totally forgot about the wi-fi situation. (Well, that’s what I’m assuming anyways.) The Dolce & Gabbana drones flew handbags from the brand’s Fall/Winter ’18 collection down the runway to Kendrick Lamar & SZA’s new song, ‘All of the Stars’, from the Black Panther soundtrack.

Ultimately, this show was one to remember! And one that people will be buzzing about for many years. I mean, who else can say they used drones to fly purses up and down a runway? Dolce & Gabbana proved that they’re ready to step into the future—and I’m all for it.

After all, the merging of fashion and tech is inevitable.

Feature image via Glamour.

Augmented Fashion London Fashion Week | VR in Vera — Virtual Reality Fashion Blog by Melina Morry

Inside London Fashion Week’s Cutting-Edge Augmented Fashion Experience by Steven Tai and ILMxLAB

I’ve been thinking a lot about fashion and tech lately. Well, obviously. I’ve been brainstorming ideas of how tech can be utilized in fashion weeks across the globe. However, I’ve been so focused on virtual reality fashion that I completely missed another major player: augmented fashion.

Coming up with a completely unique and original idea can be difficult in any industry. What hasn’t been done yet? What is there a need for? It’s slightly easier when it comes to tech and fashion. It’s still a relatively new industry with endless possibilities. And that’s not just me being overly enthusiastic.

What fashion week aims to do is give audiences a truly captivating experience—an in-depth look at a designer’s collection. But what if you could go farther?

Recently, Steven Tai and ILMxLAB presented a ground-breaking augmented fashion experience at London Fashion Week that did just that.

Live models were showcased on a runway wearing looks from Tai’s Autumn/Winter ’18 collection. The models posed in front of a screen which showed the same runway. Also on the screen was a real-time CGI avatar who wore the collection and moved around the stage with the models. Sounds interesting, right?

A post shared by s t e v e n t a i (@steventaistudio) on Feb 19, 2018 at 4:11pm PST

This use of augmented fashion allowed the audience to see what the collection looked like in real life as well as in a digital rendition. As a result, it created a much more engaging show. Attention spans are only getting smaller and we need to keep audiences focused and entertained.

Before Steven Tai‘s presentation, an actor in a motion capture suit had to have their movements tracked in real-time. This allowed the on-screen avatar to move immediately behind the physical models, striking poses just after they did. The avatar also changed clothing to showcase different garments from Tai’s collection.

In order for the clothes to be changed on the avatar, they first had to be digitized and then rendered in real-time. This obviously takes a lot more time and effort than just sending your clothes down a runway on live models! However, Steven Tai’s appetite for fashion technology shows off a panache for taking risks in the industry.

A post shared by ILMxLAB (@ilmxlab) on Feb 19, 2018 at 8:14am PST

The show examined the idea of the physical world living alongside the digital world. And it was truly fascinating! After all, don’t we augment ourselves every day anyways? You know you love those story filters! Don’t even try to deny it.

But what can we expect to see next in the world of augmented fashion? I’m hoping we’ll see it popping up at more fashion weeks around the world. Once we create space in fashion week for new technologies, the industry will be virtually unstoppable. (No pun intended.)

Tech Savvy Valentines Gift Guide | VR in Vera Wang

13 Valentine’s Day Gifts For the Tech Savvy Fashionista

Why choose between fashion and tech when you can have both? After all, sometimes more is more. And if you can have the best of both worlds, there’s no reason not to. The most romantic day of the year is quickly approaching—which ultimately means, gift grief is setting in. Well, you’re in luck. My tech savvy Valentines gift guide is just what you need.

From touchscreen gloves to stylish chargers, here’s everything you need to make your style maven tech-lover swoon on Valentine’s Day.

So, check out my Tech Savvy Valentines Gift Guide to find the best picks for all budgets—and beauties.

A post shared by KNOMO (@knomolondon) on Feb 5, 2018 at 9:03am PST

1. Knomo’s Elektronista Crossbody Bag

I have a tote from Knomo that I use for everyday office use and I love it. Their Elektronista bag is perfect for fashionistas on-the-go. It features plenty of pockets for chargers, electronics, cards and everything else you need for the day. You can carry it as a clutch or wear it across your body for hands-free convenience.

Cost: $199
Shop here.

2. Kindle Oasis

Personally, I love reading a real book. You know, turning pages and holding the physical copy. However, a lot of people are leaning towards electronic nowadays. Call me old fashioned, I guess. A bonus about the Kindle Oasis: it’s waterproof for all you bathtub readers out there!

Cost: $389.99
Shop here.

A post shared by Polaroid (@polaroid) on Feb 9, 2018 at 6:34am PST

3. Polaroid Camera

And speaking of old fashioned, a Polaroid camera is just the thing! I can’t get enough of them. Recently, a lot of events I’ve been to have had a digital photographer and someone with a Polaroid going around and snapping pics on the spot. It’s such a fun way to take home a copy of the night right then and there!

Cost: $99.99
Shop here.

4. Bluetooth Earphones

I know you probably want AirPods—but they are super hard to get ahold of right now. So, the next best thing? Bluetooth earphones! They come in a variety of colours and will do the trick until we’re able to get our paws on AirPods once again. Perhaps in time for my tech savvy Valentines gift guide next year…

Cost: $12
Shop here.

A post shared by Boostcase (@boostcase) on Nov 3, 2016 at 3:58pm PDT

5. Power POMPOM

This is hands down, the coolest phone charger you’ll ever have. Not only does it charge your battery—it’s also a compact mirror and an ultra-cute bag charm. Not only is this one of my favourites on the tech savvy Valentines gift guide, but for any occasion! (Hint, hint.)

Cost: $49.95
Shop here.

6. Touchscreen Gloves

A girl has got to get to her phone. That’s all there is to it. And what better way than with a pair of sleek, touchscreen enabled gloves? The ones I found are leather and lined with cashmere, too! So luxurious.

Cost: $26.99
Shop here.

A post shared by VR in Vera Wang (@vrinverawang) on Jan 18, 2018 at 9:15am PST

7. Google Home Mini

Ultra-convenient and super sleek, a Google Home Mini is just what your apartment needs. Trust me. I had the chance to get one a few months ago (along with a box of donuts) and it’s so charming. Plus, it’s super helpful.

Cost: $79
Shop here.

8. Smartphone Makeup Mirror

If you’re rushing from one party to the next and you’re in an Uber but you need to check your lipstick—what do you do?! Just plug in your smartphone makeup mirror and you’re set. It’s total on-the-go glam done right. Plug Life has some fantastic ones that come in a sleek variety of colours, including lilac grey, rose gold and silver.

Cost: $15
Shop here.

A post shared by Society6 (@society6) on Jan 5, 2018 at 4:12pm PST

9. Luxe Phone Case

Someone once told me that not having a case on your phone and being a psychopath go hand-in-hand. I’m not sure I’m sold on that theory. However, your phone will definitely look cuter with a case. I got my Kate Moss ‘Supreme’ case from here and completely adore it.

Cost: $35.99 & up
Shop here.

10. Stylish Stylus

It’s so much more fashionable to use a stylish stylus than just your fingertips. I sort of relate it to how smoking seems much more glam with a cigarette holder (like Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s) than without one. Although, smoking is never glam! Anyways, a little tip: using a stylus when drawing on Instagram stories looks way cooler.

Cost: $29.95
Shop here.

A post shared by Misfit (@misfitwearables) on Jan 29, 2018 at 7:51am PST

11. Glam Activity Tracker

I’ve never been into fitness trackers. Until now. Misfit Wearables has some totally glamorous ones that are gold, rose gold, silver and/or a mix of mesmerizing metallics. I think I need to stop relying on my phone for fitness and invest in one of these!

Cost: $104 & up
Shop here.

12. Samsung The Frame TV

I said in the intro to this post that these gifts were “for all budgets”, so here we are. If you really want to wow your tech-loving girlfriend this Valentine’s Day, I guarantee this will do the trick. It’s definitely a grand gesture but at least the both of you can enjoy it.

Cost: $2,699
Shop here.

A post shared by kate spade new york (@katespadeny) on Feb 11, 2018 at 8:02am PST

13. Kate Spade’s Smartwatch

Kate Spade’s new smartwatches are everything you need in a smartwatch—style included. It tracks your activity, tells you where you need to be and matches your outfit. Oh yeah, and it tells time too.

Cost: $295 & up
Shop here.

Of course, there are probably dozens of other ideas for the tech savvy Valentines gift guide, but these were my total favourites. Which ones are yours? Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! Also, let me know your tekkie V-Day plans by tweeting to me at @VRinVeraWang.

Will Your Next Purse be Able to Order Your Uber, Dinner or Shoes for You?

In the world of wickedly cool wearables, anything is possible. Your favourite bag ordering your Uber for you? Well, it may not be so far-fetched after all. The best smart purses on the market hook up to your smartphone like there’s nothing to it. And really, when it comes down to it, there isn’t.

One of my favourite fashion tech features on purses right now are the phone charging ports! I’m a total freak when it comes to having a fully charged phone. Having my bag do it for me would be a complete blessing. (Also, then you don’t run the risk of being one of those people asking waitresses at fancy restaurants to plug in your phone behind the bar. Ugh.)

But how far will the smart purse go? What will it be able to do? As of right now, it’s not too clear. However, what we do know is that they’re sleek, chic and aren’t scary looking like some smart accessories can be. (And by scary I just mean not very stylish.)

From style-savvy clutches to tekkie totes, the best smart purses are so enviable you’ll want them all.

A post shared by Rebecca Minkoff (@rebeccaminkoff) on Jan 29, 2018 at 4:54pm PST

One of my favourite fashion brands embracing tech is Rebecca Minkoff. They have a line of smart bags called #AlwaysOn that are equipped with codes that can be scanned via your phone. This allows fashionistas to engage with their bags long after they purchase them! The codes can be used to track data from smart products to better customer experience, understand consumer emotions, and more.

“We were looking to appeal to the woman that is a truly tech-active millennial craving a new level of immediate satisfaction,” Rebecca Minkoff said in a statement about the bags.

A post shared by kate spade new york (@katespadeny) on Feb 4, 2018 at 7:11am PST

Kate Spade is arguably the queen of accessories—tekkie or not. (They just released some super stylish smartwatches, too!) Their smart purses are a collaboration with Everpurse and are self-charging, minimalistic designs. Built-in chargers mean you can snap as many insta stories as you want and not worry about low-power mode!

A post shared by CAT Clutch (@thecatclutch) on Jan 22, 2018 at 11:52am PST

If you want to make a big fashion tech statement, you have to check out LED bags from The Cat Clutch. You can customize your bag with many different designs—all controlled by your iPhone. It’s like having five different bags in one! And best of all? They also charge your phone! These bags are perfect for a glittering night on the town.

Virtual Reality Can Help Fashion Brands | VR in Vera Wang — A Virtual Reality Fashion Blog by Melina Morry

How Virtual Reality Can be Used to Bring Back Personality to Fashion Brands

In the past few years, we’ve seen a major increase in collaborations between fashion brands and virtual reality. VR is being utilized by more companies than ever before—from Dior to Jason Wu. Virtual reality can help fashion brands step into the future, bring some personality back to their concepts and individualize their experiences. After all, even though virtual reality and fashion seem to be on opposite ends of the spectrum, they go perfectly hand-in-hand.

The fashion industry is leaping at the chance to jump on board the tech revolution. For example, virtual tour company YouVisit partnered with Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Russia to bring viewers from around the world a look at the runway in VR. Canadian fashion designer Sid Neigum presented his latest collection in 360° VR video, too. And let’s not forget that brands like Balenciaga, Tommy Hilfiger and Topshop have all streamed virtual runways as well.

After all, with consumer engagement on the decline, something has to change to save the fashion industry. So, what better than a virtual reality experience to shake things up?

Virtual reality can help fashion brands in many different ways. Abi Mandelbaum, CEO of YouVisit, told Vogue that:

“One thing that I’ve noticed is that fashion is about a lot more than just the designs. It’s about what’s happening in the world, and it’s about the models, the designers, their inspirations, the stories behind them, and that’s what VR allows them to do, to tell all of that in an interesting way.”

And that’s just the thing. Not only can you tell stories in a more interesting format—you can tell them in your own style. In the same way that designers can personalize their runway shows, they can personalize their VR experiences. And bring back some of their standout personalities!

I’ve been seeing a lot of tweets lately talking about how brands are becoming more and more boring. Also, that the models lack the personalities of the past. (Think Claudia Schiffer, Linda Evangelista and Naomi Campbell for big personalities on the runway.) But perhaps what works on the runway (straight walk, straight face) won’t work in VR.

Virtual reality can help fashion brands go beyond what’s happening on the catwalk. For example, VR can give fashion-lovers an extra fabulous front-row seat. Or help them see the collections up-close and personal. Furthermore, virtual reality can help fashion brands add their own music, their own concepts and their own personal touch on their VR experiences.

Ultimately, virtual reality is a new(ish) and exciting way to bring back some personality to fashion brands. Whether a massive couture house or small Queen Street boutique—it really doesn’t matter. Virtual reality can be customized to fit the brand, just like the brand can be customized in VR. So, who will be next?

Feature image incorporates fashion photography from Noa Raviv.

Location-Based VR Experiences | VR in Vera Wang — Virtual Reality Fashion Blog by Melina Morry

4 Location-Based VR Experiences That are Worth Checking Out

Not everybody has access to VR. From the price of headsets (that are thankfully coming down), to the price of powerful VR-capable computers—not to mention a large empty space at home so you don’t collide with a wall or furniture—home-based VR is an expensive proposition. One of the best ways to give it a try is with location-based VR experiences. That’s what I did by visiting VR Playin in Toronto!

What you may not know is that there are some rather large companies in the location-based VR space. Some are tied to large movie properties, while others are more like virtual reality arcades. There’s even a huge VR theme park in China (that we’ll talk about one day).

For those of you that are interested in checking out location-based VR experiences, I thought I’d cover a few of the more popular options that are springing up all over the world—and North America especially!

4 Location-Based VR Experiences You Need to Check Out

A post shared by The VOID (@voidvr) on Sep 15, 2017 at 11:32am PDT

Ghostbusters Hyper-Reality Experience by The Void

First of all, you have to put your coat and belongings into a locker. Next, your backpack computer, force feedback vest and helmet are waiting. Once you suit up you can blast away ghosts with a team of three in Madame Tussauds’ Wax Museum. The experience starts inside of an apartment with cute, friendly ghosts flying around. However, once you go through the door to the apartment and hop into the elevator, EVERYTHING changes!

As soon as you arrive on the top floor, you’re in the final battle from the original Ghostbusters film, fighting the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man from the roof, while all of New York City sits beneath you. As the building is destroyed around you, you feel gusts of air, and vibrations. Every time you’re hit by a ghost, your vest vibrates. Before you know it though, the experience is over and you’ll want to do it all over again!

A post shared by The VOID (@voidvr) on Dec 23, 2017 at 7:32am PST

Star Wars: Secrets Of The Empire by The Void

Star Wars: Secrets Of The Empire is the latest location-based experience by the folks at The Void. Placing you on the planet of Mustafar, it allows teams of four to play virtual dress up as spies going undercover as Stormtroopers. (Hopefully with better aim though!)

While wearing a haptic vest and helmet with hand tracking devices attached, players can walk around and explore a virtual space that is perfectly mapped to the physical environment around them. You’ll find blasters, seats, railings and walls, where they are in the game.

Starting with a mission briefing from Diego Luna (who appeared in Star Wars Rogue One) you are sent on your way to complete a mission that is canonical within the Star Wars universe. Being able to live through an experience that would be at home in any of the films is absolutely thrilling. And coming face to face with Darth Vader is absolutely next level!

A post shared by Zero Latency (@zerolatencyvr) on Oct 9, 2017 at 6:30pm PDT

Zero Latency

Zero Latency is a location-based VR experience that started in Australia. However, it now exists in Singapore as well as Las Vegas. Similar to what the folks at The Void are doing, the experience puts you through three different challenges. The first eases players into the experience so they learn to move around while wearing all of the required gear.

The second challenge revolves around fighting zombies and is essentially a VR version of Valve and Turtle Rock Studios classic Left4Dead—a high compliment! The third and final challenge allows you to navigate claustrophobic hallways fighting off robots, culminating in a face-off against a giant mech. Combined, the experiences run a full hour which isn’t a bad way to get your blood pumping in VR!

A post shared by IMAX VR (@imaxvr) on Nov 25, 2017 at 8:08am PST

IMAX VR

IMAX has been interested in location-based VR experiences for some time. Albeit with a different formula: building a high-end VR arcade that has exclusive and limited-run content and even more cinematic headsets for some experiences. The spaces located in LA, New York and Toronto are absolutely gorgeous! Ultra modern, clean and looking like it’s straight out of a sci-fi fantasy.

IMAX VR locations have gorgeous and spacious booths that allow customers to play in a large 12 foot by 12 foot space where they won’t have to worry about colliding with anything. Have you ever wanted to wield a lightsaber, or fly through the sky as an eagle? At IMAX’s VR arcades you can!

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to be the world’s greatest assassin—you can try out the John Wick VR experience with a special ultra-wide StarVR headset and fully tracked gun peripheral. You can roll, crawl, and jump around in virtual reality taking out all of your enemies as though you were in the John Wick films!

That’s not everyone’s style though. You can also play as any member of The Justice League in an exclusive experience tied to the movie that was released last fall. IMAX has location-based VR experiences springing up all over the world and expansion is their goal over 2018 so keep an eye out at major movie theatre locations!

Virtual Reality Fashion | VR in Vera Wang — A Fashion VR Blog by Melina Morry

5 Reasons Why Fashion Brands are Making the Move Into Virtual Reality

Fashion brands are always ahead of the trends. Right? Well, that may be true in the case of next season’s must-have boots—but what about technology? Specifically, virtual reality fashion. We’ve seen Topshop, Dior and Tommy Hilfiger jump on the VR bandwagon so far. And there are plans to see more from Rebecca Minkoff, too.

However, why exactly is it that brands should be adopting virtual reality fashion practices into their business plans?

5 Reasons Why Brands are Adopting Virtual Reality Fashion Practices

A post shared by VR in Vera Wang (@vrinverawang) on Jul 27, 2017 at 9:13am PDT

1. It can make shopping a whole lot easier

Imagine going to a store to pick out a new look—and you don’t even have to get undressed to try it on! Revolutionary. Through virtual fittings, customers are able to try on garments simply with the swipe of a hand. Also, once your measurements are in the system, retailers can keep those on file for next time you shop! Talk about convenience.

A post shared by VR in Vera Wang (@vrinverawang) on Jul 20, 2017 at 9:13am PDT

2. Virtual reality can lead to a better store experience

As Tommy Hilfiger’s CEO, Daniel Gredier, stated, “These days, you can’t just wait for people to come into the store and try on your jackets. You have to provide entertainment.” And what’s more entertaining than a virtual reality fashion experience? With a VR headset, you can step into an entirely different world. Feel like visiting the store’s Paris location? Just load it up.

A post shared by VR in Vera Wang (@vrinverawang) on Oct 28, 2017 at 4:35pm PDT

3. Wearable tech is a massively growing industry

It’s hard to imagine any other fashion sector growing more rapidly than the wearable tech industry. Obviously, where there’s growth, there’s money to be made. For example, Tory Burch’s take on Fitbit dramatically elevated the look of the smart watch and Opening Ceremony’s smart bracelet completely sold out at Barney’s. Who will be next?

A post shared by VR in Vera Wang (@vrinverawang) on Sep 18, 2017 at 2:32pm PDT

4. You can deliver much more in-depth runway shows

No one knows this better than Dior, Topshop and Balenciaga. Recently, I also saw a runway preview of Canadian designer Sid Neigum’s collection through a 360° video at Re\set Fashion Week. Through virtual reality fashion shows, consumers are able to get an in-depth view of the runway show—while sitting next to Kate Moss and Anna Wintour!

A post shared by VR in Vera Wang (@vrinverawang) on Jan 6, 2018 at 2:33pm PST

5. Of course, they want to stay current

Where are the trends headed right now? Virtually. So, it’s only natural that big brands want to keep up. Virtual reality fashion is something that we’re going to be seeing much more of in the coming years. After all, the future of fashion VR is only getting stronger.