Somerville-Based Nervous System Debuts a 3D Printed Bodice

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3D printing keeps creeping further into the mainstream of fashion manufacturing, both during the prototyping process and in ready-to-wear applications, and will eventually lead its way into our wardrobes. Somerville-based design studio Nervous System is getting a head start on that movement, debuting a 3D printed nylon bodice in New York this week. The company's blog notes that the top was composed of 1,320 unique hinged pieces, generated with its proprietary Kinematics software, and printed as a single part with snaps at the back to secure the garment. Its folding design allows the bodice to move, subsequently making it a functional clothing object.

The Kinematics program has already been used in creating jewelry, making this bodice the first apparel item from Nervous System. To describe its design process, the studio's website notes: "Drawing inspiration from natural phenomena, we write computer programs based on processes and patterns found in nature and use those programs to create unique and affordable art, jewelry, and housewares." Next up on their agenda is tackling a dress. Want a piece of their work? The Museum of Fine Arts gift shop, Room 68 in Jamaica Plain, and Xylem in Central Square stock jewelry and home decor.
· Kinematics Bodice [Nervous System Blog]
· Nervous System [Official Site]