French designer Louis Le Joly Senoville has unveiled Ha Mat—a wearable chess set that’s as much a fashion statement as it is a game. Debuted as his final project at Central Saint Martins, this innovative ensemble transforms the traditional chess experience into a portable, sartorial delight.
At first glance, Ha Mat appears as a collection of sophisticated accessories: 32 sleek rings, a luxurious silk scarf, and a minimalist watch. But look closer, and you’ll find a fully functional chess set cleverly disguised within these pieces. Each ring represents a chess piece, meticulously crafted from silver-galvanized brass with geometric cut-outs that hint at their identities—be it the noble king or the agile knight.
The silk scarf doubles as the chessboard, its design inspired by historical artifacts like wartime silk maps and antique military scarves. The rich hues of gold, brown, and black pay homage to classic chess materials like aged wood and leather, adding a touch of timeless elegance to the modern aesthetic.
Perhaps the most ingenious element is the watch. Not just a timekeeper, it splits into two, serving as timers for both players—a nod to the intensity and precision of high-stakes matches. It’s a seamless integration of functionality and form, embodying the essence of Ha Mat.
Manufactured entirely in France, Le Joly Senoville’s creation challenges the norms of mass production. By sourcing silk deadstock from the luxury giant LVMH and collaborating with local artisans, he emphasizes sustainability and craftsmanship over industrial excess.
Ha Mat isn’t just about reimagining a game; it’s about redefining how we wear and interact with everyday objects. In an era dominated by digital entertainment, this wearable chess set brings a tangible, personal connection back to play. It’s an invitation to engage—in strategy, in conversation, and in style.
Louis Le Joly Senoville has orchestrated more than just a design; he’s initiated a movement where fashion and function coalesce, where the boundaries of accessory and utility blur. Ha Mat stands as a testament to innovation, inviting us all to carry a bit of the extraordinary into the everyday.
