This Is Fashion's Most Desperate New Trend

For an industry that prides itself on novelty, there’s little that fashion can do that feels boring. Step forward Muji’s latest denim offer, a pair of jeans with a built-in smartphone pocket.
‘Ah’, readers will cry, ‘but fashion is full of pointless design details, that’s the joy!’ There’s certainly a case to be made here, for there’s nothing like the whimsy of Prada’s latest shell necklaces, or indeed a round up of noughties highlights – read, pink sunglasses – to bring home the fact that the fashion industry makes its money by selling consumers things they do not need.

However – and this is a minor point – what is the difference between a pocket proper and a smartphone pocket? And while you are here, dear reader, may we also enquire how many times you have reached down to grab your smartphone from your back pocket and had to rifle through thinking ‘dammit, where could that enormous bit of metal (and/or plastic) have disappeared to, it was right here ruining my Kardashi-ass curve only moments ago?’ Isn’t a smartphone pocket just a pocket? Is it still a smartphone pocket if there’s no smartphone in it? Throw us a bone here, let us know your thoughts.

The smartphone pocket (we might as well embrace the jargon) will be available in six new styles of jeans, and is said by the brand to be an embodiment of their continuing commitment to a marriage of form and function. While Muji’s slick design aesthetic is usually high up on the list for style lovers who embrace minimalism, this addition feels like a step too far. What’s next, a handbag for your wallet?

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.