See how multiple designers transformed the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds into wearable art.
The moment the Bose Ultra Open earbuds were released, they were immediately dubbed as “Bluetooth earrings”.
This is because of their unique open-ear design that clips into the users’ ears instead of resting inside them. Since then, many designers seem to have latched on to this idea and transformed these earbuds into iconic fashion accessories.
So far, there are four memorable collaborations to date that added more colors, gold, and diamonds to the earbuds. Let’s take a look at them below:
1. Bose x Victor Solomon: A Basketball-Inspired Design
Victor Solomon of Literally Balling worked with Bose to create a unique pair of Ultra Open Earbuds for Tyrese Haliburton, a star player of the Indiana Pacers.
This one-of-a-kind design draws inspiration from basketball, as seen in a promotional video posted on Instagram. They feature “bespoke gold plates inspired by basketball pebble texture and adorned with diamond set basketball seams.”
Wrapping up the entire look is a custom crystal holder, showcasing the blend of sports elegance and style.
Gifted to Haliburton during the All-Star festivities, the custom earbuds are a nod to the player’s achievements. They also celebrate the evolving relationship between technology and luxury fashion.
2. Bose x Maggi Simpkins: A Jewel in the Crown of Women in Music
At the Billboard Women in Music event, the spotlight wasn’t only on the winners but also on the fashion statements. Kenzie Ziegler‘s custom Bose Ultra Open Earbuds, redesigned by famous jewelry designer Maggi Simpkins, were a standout accessory.
Simpkins used a 14k yellow gold plate in place of the original. She then “designed diamond clusters” inspired by her signature motifs. The goal was a combination of striking but not overwhelming.
For Simpkins, this project was a chance to merge tech, fashion, and music innovatively. It also aimed to transform an ordinary tech item into a symbol of personal achievement. This was especially meaningful at an event honoring women’s contributions to music.
3. Bose x Icebox: A Stunning Grammys Debut
Icebox, known for its custom jewelry for stars, partnered with Bose for a standout project at the 2024 Grammys. The Atlanta-based design team created a one-of-a-kind pair of Ultra Open Earbuds for Maluma, using 365 diamonds and crafted with 22 grams of 14K white gold. It blends high-tech with high fashion and has an estimated value of about $20,000.
Icebox co-founder Zahir Jooma was excited about the collaboration:
There were some hurdles to overcome. Icebox had to ensure the additions didn’t mess with the earbuds’ function, keeping them easy to wear. This involved scanning the earbuds, making a wax model for trials, and choosing the final look from 28 early designs.
Icebox has done similar work with Bose, jazzing up headphones for other big names. They put the same effort and attention into all their work, regardless of the client’s fame. That said, the diamond-studded earbuds have already attracted the attention of other celebs.
4. Bose x Steve Lacy: A Futuristic Nod to the ’70s
Grammy-winner Steve Lacy worked with Bose to give their Ultra Open Earbuds a vintage makeover, blending old-style vibes with today’s tech.
He looked to 1970s soundboards for inspiration, choosing a soft gray for the earbuds and adding hints of pink, blue, and green for a bit of fun.
This limited run was a big hit, quickly selling out. Lacy was happy with how they turned out, saying:
Lacy also took charge of the creative direction for the campaign video. It highlights the earbuds as tools that help him empower his community through music and Bose’s innovation.