Apple and ISSEY MIYAKE stitch style into tech with new iPhone Pocket

Apple has partnered with Japanese fashion house ISSEY MIYAKE to launch a new accessory dubbed "iPhone Pocket", a 3D-knitted, pleated case that blends fashion and function.

Inspired by ISSEY MIYAKE’s design philosophy of “a piece of cloth”, the iPhone Pocket reimagines how users carry their devices, combining Apple’s sleek minimalism with the brand’s textile craftsmanship. The special-edition accessory will be available from 14 November at select Apple Stores and on the apple website.

Crafted in Japan, the iPhone Pocket features a ribbed open-knit design that adapts to fit any iPhone and small daily items. Its semi-transparent texture subtly reveals what’s inside, while allowing users to glimpse their screen without removing the phone.

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The accessory can be handheld, tied to a bag, or worn across the body, with two strap styles, short and long, and a vibrant palette of up to eight colours. The short strap version comes in lemon, mandarin, purple, pink, peacock, sapphire, cinnamon, and black, while the long strap is available in sapphire, cinnamon, and black.

The launch marks a deeper creative exchange between ISSEY MIYAKE’s research-driven design process and Apple’s product design ethos. The Apple Design Studio reportedly collaborated closely on both development and production.

The iPhone Pocket retails at SG$219 for the short strap and SG$329 for the long strap, and will be available in markets including France, Greater China, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the UK, and the US, just in time for the holiday season.

Singapore shoppers can find it at Apple Orchard Road, while other flagship locations include Apple Ginza in Tokyo, Apple SoHo in New York City, and Apple Regent Street in London.

“Apple and ISSEY MIYAKE share a design approach that celebrates craftsmanship, simplicity, and delight. This clever extra pocket exemplifies those ideas and is a natural accompaniment to our products," said Molly Anderson, vice president of industrial design at Apple.

She added, "The colour palette of iPhone Pocket was intentionally designed to mix and match with all our iPhone models and colours — allowing users to create their own personalised combination. Its recognisable silhouette offers a beautiful new way to carry your iPhone, AirPods, and favourite everyday items.”

In tandem, Yoshiyuki Miyamae, design director of MIYAKE DESIGN STUDIO said, "The design of iPhone Pocket speaks to the bond between iPhone and its user, while keeping in mind that an Apple product is designed to be universal in aesthetic and versatile in use. iPhone Pocket explores the concept of ‘the joy of wearing iPhone in your own way.’ The simplicity of its design echoes what we practice at ISSEY MIYAKE — the idea of leaving things less defined to allow for possibilities and personal interpretation.”

The launch comes as brands continue experimenting with creative crossovers that fuse design, storytelling, and nostalgia. In October, Malaysian footwear brand Christy Ng teamed up with Mamee Monster for a collection of bags inspired by the beloved blue mascot, transforming childhood memories into modern, wearable pieces that celebrate local culture and emotional connection.

Meanwhile, Toblerone turned the runway into a “Diamond heist” at the Ayala Museum during Philippine Fashion Week, where designers Jaggy Glarino, Ram Silva, and Jerome Salaya Ang unveiled couture pieces inspired by the brand’s new Toblerone Truffles. Both campaigns highlight how brands are turning creative partnerships into cultural moments, connecting with audiences through emotion, craft, and a touch of whimsy.

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