Decked-out tech

Skullcandy Hesh ($149.99). Photo supplied.

When so much thought can go into a haircut, shoes, coat colour and the cut of a pair of jeans, why do some of our most highly used and prized possessions not get the same style treatment?With cellphones seemingly an extra appendage, laptops an essential part of busy on-the-go lifestyles, and people opting to listen to their own musical mix rather than the drone of everyday life, more attention needs to be paid to how these things look.

Rather than deeming your laptop or mp3 player something worthy of hiding for its bland black, grey and white exterior, give it a splash of colour, a point of difference and a bit of love by lavishing some accessories upon it.

Headphones

Get rid of those plain buds and make a statement by turning your headphones into an accessory comparable to a necklace, hat or earrings.

All kinds of colours, embellishments and prints are available on ear buds and full headphones, leaving them anything but discreet.

Eskuche is one brand which hit the scene last year with its inspired 1960s styling.

With colours ranging from pale lemon, in plastic, through to tinted chromes, they ooze retro funk (think Formica tables and your grandfather's radio).

If how they sound is equally important, never fear, it is meant to be amazing and they have an interchangeable cording system making them compatible with most mp3 players, laptops, home stereos, DJ mixers, and music-enabled mobile phones.

Skullcandy also makes a variety of colourful, customisable headphones, earbuds and audio accessories.

Along with its own skull motif, the brand uses other pop-culture icons such as Paul Frank.

Laptop bags

Yes, keeping your laptop in a bag means it is easier to carry and helps protect it from scratches.

But does said bag have to be boring?There are many different options available to encase your computer - from slip-on skins to fully armoured backpacks - so let your inner style come out.

Since carrying a laptop became an everyday activity for students and businessmen, designers have cottoned on and started creating more colourful and feature-filled options for discerning buyers.

Was is a range whose bags are made from recycled billboards and discarded disused materials from locally owned suppliers.

Even better is the fact they are made in New Zealand.

Part of its range is laptop bags which have a foam insert to protect your hardware.

However, for versatility purposes, the insert can be removed so the bag can be used for anything.

mp3 covers

While a plain iPod is considered fashionable enough by some, for others there is room for improvement.

Covers are a great way to protect screens from scratches (without having to apply a thick plastic sticker that bubbles and collects dirt around its edges), and add character to a frequently used item.

With covers and pouches made from wool to silicon and metal, options are endless.

If you do not want your player to be wrapped up all the time, a small purse can also be used to house it safely, so keep your eye out for a cute or quirky number next time you are wandering the shops.