Now, shape-shifting dress that responds to stares

A Canada-based designer has developed unique new dresses that writhe around in mesmerising patterns and light up when someone stares at them.

The dresses made by fashion designer Ying Gao contort and light up whenever they detects a fixed gaze.

"We use an eye-tracking system so the dresses move when a spectator is staring. (The system) can also turn off the lights, then the dresses illuminate," Gao told Dezeen magazine.

The dresses are embedded with eye-tracking technology that reacts to an observer's gaze by activating tiny motors that move parts of the dress in captivating patterns.

One dress is covered in tendrils of photo-luminescent thread that dangle from ruched fabric.

On the other, glow-in-the-dark threads form a base layer with fabric cut into ribbons loosely bunched over the top.

With the lights off they create an effect similar to glowing sea creatures.

"A photograph is said to be 'spoiled' by blinking eyes — here however, the concept of presence and of disappearance are questioned, as the experience of chiaroscuro (clarity) is achieved through an unfixed gaze," said Gao.

Dubbed "(No)Where (Now)Here," the two interactive dresses will be exhibited at the Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art in November, followed by a stint at the Textile Museum of Canada in the spring of 2014.

Gao has also designed dresses that curl and unfurl in reaction to light, as well as garments that move as if they are breathing.