Seattle, Washington 2017

Lumen Couture is an update on the original projector hat dress. The hat contains a full PC, projection mapping software, and camera that tracks the model’s movements. The camera tracks a small brooch on the model’s shoulder as an anchoring point for the projection. This allows the model to fully move her head and body without the projection moving or warping. The project was in collaboration with Chris Corner (OnConference International Conference Calls) and Kyle Nylund (Kyle Nylund Art).

Showcased at MakeFashion 2017 gala in Calgary AB. Modelled by Elizabeth Gray, hair by Jason Mellor, and makeup by Jade Brunes.

The first version of the projector hat was powered by an iPhone, with a static projection on the front of the model’s torso. The original projector hat worked well when the model faced forward: but would move position when she tilted her head or swerved her body. For the second version of the dress, we  wanted to create a smaller hat and projection that stayed put.

The hat was entirely rebuilt with a PC instead of an iPhone. Using “TouchDesigner” projection mapping software, a 3D model of the wearer is tracked in real-time. The hat contains a camera inside the rim, which tracks a red brooch positioned on the shoulder. The software uses color recognition to recognize the pin’s position, using it as an anchor to keep the projection stable. The end result is that the software adjusts the position of the video projection based on the model’s movement.

Photo: Kelly Hofer | Wearable Tech Hat Designers: Chelsea Klukas and Chris Corner | Dress Design: Kyle Nylund | Model: Elizabeth Gray | Hair: Jason Mellor | Makeup: Jade Brunes