Journal 9, July 27, 2008

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/18/fashion/18mirror.html?_r=1&ref=technology&oref=slogin

Dennis Whitfield
July 27, 2008
LBST 2213

If the Mirror Could Talk (It Can)
by Natasha Singer

Last week at Bloomingdale’s in Manhattan shoppers came across something quite different. A prototype for an interactive mirror stationed among the embroidered cotton dresses and duster pants in the Nanette Lepore department. Nothing fancy, just a regular full length mirror trimmed in a vintage white wooden frame but doubled as a three part high resolution digital screen. As customers tried on their clothing, and checked themselves out in the mirror, people online are able to send instant messages to the mirror commenting on the particular outfit. The online watchers are also able to suggest other outfits for the customer to try on. IconNicholson an interactive design firm in Manhattan, introduced the mirror to Nanette Lepore. At the moment, the mirror is just a prototype, but has used similar mirrors at other boutiques like Prada in Soho. But their plan is to sell this mirror to stores across the world.

Most people shop with a friend, sibling or parent that gives advice on particular clothing options. This mirror provides another way for people to get advice on clothing options when their friends are not available to be with them directly. They can make a phone call and tell whoever to log on to the site, and check them out. Some say that this will not take off because who is home during the day stuck to a computer during prime shopping hours. But, with technology constantly advancing, someone could access the site by using there cell phone browser. This will especially be the case for the younger people who already have access the sites of myspace and friendster.