AS CONSUMERS CONTINUE to rely on the innovative gadgets that have become necessities over the course of the last decade or so, they've also developed a need for storing their devices, and smarter, more convenient ways of accessing them. Levi's, for example, launched its RedWire DLX jeans, complete with a docking station in the pocket, giving wearers easy access to their iPods.

Scottevest/ SeV's multifunctional jacket.

Sport labels such as Everlast also are getting in on the action. For spring, it will introduce its Groove pocket Everdri key items, which feature clothing that has strategically placed built-in pockets that securely hold music players and other devices or personal items.

Jordan, who now has a staff of five full-time employees and a host of subcontractors, offers a complete line of clothing geared toward a digital lifestyle. An instant hit among "techies" who valued the ability to carry and use devices, the collection also received high praise from undercover law enforcement including the FBI and Secret Service, who can discreetly use communication devices and conceal their weapons.

Ergonomically designed, Scottevest/SeV's apparel is high on functionality. Its patented Technology Enabled Clothing-TEC system can incorporate third-party electronics and wires into clothing. Now wearers can listen to their MP3s without getting tangled in the headphone wires. Other technologies and functions introduced include solar panels, which can be used to recharge personal electronic devices. The panels can be attached to jackets, enabling wearers to recharge their gadgets on the go. The panels can be removed easily for washing. Scottevest/SeV's performance T-shirt has a Proprietary Weight Management System that features a special lightweight fabric and an ergonomically designed pocket that holds most digital devices, including an MP3 player, mobile phone, and PDA, without creating any unsightly bulges or weighing down the neckline.

Going forward, Scottevest/SeV expects to license its Technology Enabled Clothing-TEC through a wide variety of channels, including military, industrial, and consumer. The company currently is involved in negotiations with several major clothing manufacturers. "We intend to follow models similar to Gore-Tex and Teflon, making our technology widely available," says Jordan, who expects TEC innovations to be ubiquitous by 2010. The system is especially relevant in light of the proliferation of MP3 players such as Apple's iPod, and the recent state, federal, and international legislation mandating hands-free use of cell phones while driving.

The tech-inspired collection is available via the company's Website ( http://www.scottevest.com/) and at select retailers, including Hammacher Schlemmer, Magellan's, Brookstone, Travel Smith, COMPUSA, and The International Spy Museum. Suggested retails range from $20 to $450.

In addition to apparel innovations designed to outfit the latest gadgets, fabrics with functionality also have been a focus. "We're looking at new advances in nanotechnology, which includes fusing fibers with UV protection and aloe," reveals J. Witrock, president, Sand-n-Steel Apparel Group, a licensee for YogaForce athletic gear. He mentions his company is looking at the use of silver fibers that are woven into the fabrics to create antimicrobial properties.

Everlast, a company that has been using moisture and bacterial control treatments in its fabrics for years, looks ahead to "body-care" applications that include muscle-enhancing technology, skin treatment, and aromatherapy, which are used to elevate the wearer's performance, mood, and well-being.