Gadgets as fashion statements, status symbols

Crissa Mae Valenzona/ Palompon Institute of technology, ABComm. intern

THESE days, most people have gotten used to the idea of technology being around and the wonders it produces. Its influence in the modern age has truly become powerful, yet sometimes unnoticed.

Nowadays, with gadget innovations like smartphones and computer tablets, it has become more convenient for people all around the world to do tasks with a blink of an eye.

The main purpose of gadgets is to generally make life easier, hassle-free and more convenient for its users.

But lately these technological trends have crossed over, not just being labeled as mere gadgets of communication and entertainment. These have also become fashion trends and status symbols without most people knowing it. Today, fashion and technology are two words that go very well together.

Imagine leaving home without your phone, earphones or headphones, or hanging out with friends without bringing a digital camera. Whether a person is aware of it or not, these geeky little gadgets have become part of that person’s everyday ensemble.

It has become some “style” for most people, especially for those living in cities.

Whether a person admits it or not, a music-lover feels more confident whenever he wears cooler headphones. For some, the idea of owning a smartphone or a tablet gives them self-esteem and swagger that much needed boost.

What’s also interesting to take note of is that these technological accessories also have their own line of accessories. From bags, sleeves to skins and cases for gadget protection and fashion, these items make a person look more fashionable in a way.

Talking about a gadget as a status symbol is another story. In most cases, it is a given that a sleeker and a more modern-looking gadget would mean that it was bought for a higher price.

Owning a fancy smartphone would generally imply that that person is well-to-do and can afford things that other people can’t, especially if you know that the price of that little thing can range from P10,000 - 50,000, depending on the unit.

By observing the kind of a gadget a person owns, one can probably tell a description of what kind of person he is, or have an idea what some of his traits and characteristics are. But then of course, that’s generally speaking.

To sum it up, it looks like these technological innovations have been made to offer something more other than what it was originally created for.