Inflatable Fashion - The Bandeau Belt
Collaboration with Kathleen Westerhout
2010 | Wearable Technology
Technical Fabrics
In partnership with Mustang Survival, North America’s leading supplier of survival solutions for military, professional and recreational boating, we have developed a safety apparel product line for female recreational boaters. The Bandeau Belt merges fashion with a utilitarian object to enhance the experience on the water. There is a prominent lifestyle of luxury and freedom associated with boating, no matter what size vessel. While there are many Personal Flotation Device's (PFD's) available that offer great protection for active, sporty water activities, there are no products suitable for the fashion-conscious glamorous woman aboard a yacht.
A staggering number of boating related deaths are due to victims not wearing a PFD. Although there are numerous education programs in place to promote PFD use, wear rates are directly related to the comfort, bulk and stylishness of the device. The stigmas surrounding safety equipment also contribute to low wear rates.
The Bandeau Belt comes in 3 unique styles that can be worn with endless combinations of yachting apparel. This PFD is a great choice for situations where there is a chance you may go into the water and are confident you will be able to pull the inflation cord in the case of an emergency. Upon activation, a C02 canister will cause an inflatable bladder to emerge from within the Bandeau Belt and is placed over the head to provide buoyancy and safety.
We have received a generous amount of exposure online. Check us out!
Life-Saving Fashion: Changing the Perceptions of the PFD at Core77 by Kara Pecknold, June 28, 2010
Bandeau Belts: Safely Fashionable at Vevant by Nick Leftley, July 28, 2010
Inflatable Resort Fashion at Fashioning Technology by Syuzi, July 6, 2010
Inflatable Bandeau Belt Offers Stylish, Discreet Alternative to Life Jacket at Ecouterre by Bridgette Meinhold, July 8, 2010
Inflatable Bandeau Belt Offers Stylish, Discreet Alternative to Life Jacket at Inhabitat by Diane Pham, July 11, 2010
