Is Apple's $230 iPhone Sock Worth It? A Defense

Apple's New iPhone Accessory: A $230 "Pocket"

Following the debate surrounding Apple’s $19 polishing cloth, a new product has emerged: the limited edition iPhone Pocket. This cloth sling for your phone is available for $149.95 in a shorter length and $229.95 as a longer, crossbody option.

Inspired by Minimalist Design

The iPhone Pocket’s design is rooted in simplicity, described by Apple as being inspired by “a piece of cloth,” utilizing a single fabric construction. This approach aims for a minimalist aesthetic.

A Fashion-Forward Concept

Despite initial reactions, the iPhone Pocket aligns with current fashion trends. A smaller, vibrant accessory could complement bags like the azalea-pink Telfar, though the price point may be prohibitive for some consumers.

The Issey Miyake Connection

A Legacy of Innovation

Those familiar with Issey Miyake will recognize the design’s origins. Miyake, the late Japanese designer, pioneered the “APOC” (“a piece of cloth”) concept in 1997, emphasizing innovative, tech-forward fashion and waste reduction.

Apple's Description of the Product

Apple states that the iPhone Pocket features a ribbed mesh structure reminiscent of Issey Miyake’s pleats. It’s designed to allow glimpses of the iPhone display when stretched, offering a unique way to carry your device.

Steve Jobs and Issey Miyake

Issey Miyake’s innovative spirit resonated with Steve Jobs, and the two formed a friendship. Jobs commissioned Miyake to design a uniform for Apple employees, inspired by those seen at Sony in Japan.

A Personal Uniform

While an all-encompassing employee uniform didn’t materialize, Jobs collaborated with Miyake to create a personal uniform for himself. This highlights Miyake’s influence on the aesthetic Jobs cultivated at Apple.

Miyake's Influence on Apple's Style

Notably, Issey Miyake’s label designed Steve Jobs’ signature black mockneck shirts. Though Miyake himself wasn’t involved in the iPhone Pocket’s creation, his aesthetic legacy is clearly present.

Trends and Comparisons

Crossbody Phone Accessories

The longer iPhone Pocket builds upon the growing trend of crossbody phone accessories. Apple previously released a $59 crossbody strap, which, while well-made, proved somewhat cumbersome for everyday use.

The Labubu Phenomenon

The shorter iPhone Pocket may draw parallels to the popularity of Labubu, collectible monster plush keychains. Like the iPhone Pocket, Labubu’s appeal seemed initially inexplicable, yet drove demand and high resale values.

Accessories for Accessories

Both the iPhone Pocket and Labubu function as accessories for existing accessories. This echoes a broader trend of accessorizing everyday items, such as the popular Stanley Cup.

The Rise of Phone-Centric Living

With technologies like Tap to Pay and phone-based wallets, it’s increasingly possible to leave the house with only a phone. This convenience fuels the demand for phone-centric accessories.

Miniature Bag Trend

The popularity of miniature versions of popular bags – like those from Trader Joe’s, Telfar, Free People, Baggu, Lululemon, and IKEA – demonstrates a growing interest in scaled-down accessories. A phone “sock” fits naturally into this trend.

Future Outlook

Whether the iPhone Pocket will achieve the same level of cultural impact as Labubu remains to be seen. However, it could become a popular holiday gift, and its success wouldn’t be entirely surprising.