April 2011

Cazal Legends

Limited Edition of favourite 1980s styles

23rd April 2011 I have followed Cazal for years. Designer Cari Zalloni has a unique style, and is particularly popular for his very individual designs of the 1980s. So this Limited Edition will become sought after..the company is re-releasing its four top sellers of the 80s, models CAZAL 623 – 856 – 901 and 904. The drawings of the models by Zalloni are great examples of the designer’s attention to detail, exuberance and passion for eyewear.

Model 904 by Cazal

Cazal’s 1980s vintage frames are increasingly sought after and the original editions of these models are quite rare, so collectors love them; it’s likely the new interpretations will attract excitement all over again (the rap world loves the Cazal label especially – Jay Z wears some of the classic styles – as does Usher, the R&B star).

Model 623 by Cazal

 

For more on the German based Cazal brand and to view the full collection visit www.cazal-eyewear.com CN

Royal College of Art

Looking to the Future

21st April 2011 Potential budding young eyewear designers, students at London’s prestigious Royal College of Art –  www.rca.ac.uk – were invited to submit their creations for the 2011 Optrafair, held in Birmingham this month.  The participants let their imaginations flow, and used materials normally associated with eyewear, plus they experimented with the unusual – rice, twisted wire-work, silks, textured weaves and boiled wool. First prize winner Claire Zeng was inspired by a visit to London’s Gagosian Gallery to see a light exhibition. Zeng said that the architecture and colours of the Arizona dessert also tweaked her creativity. Her winning entry in acetate blends geometry and modernity, plus Zeng said she wanted some “playfulness”. UK frame manufacturers Premiere Optical Services, produced the prototypes. JG

Chic and oh so cool!

Children’s eyewear

17th  April 2011 As the April edition of Eyestylist highlights children’s frames, we thought our readers would like to see how great kids look in their glasses. We’ve had lots of images sent to us that beautifully illustrate how comfortable, cool and chic the young set is wearing specs.  Style aware kids already know the power of eyewear as a fashion accessory! Pictured above, boy wearing Zoobug Aviators (www.zoobug.com). JG

Helsinki by Red Children's Eyewear (www.redoptical.com)

 

 

 

 

Helsinki by Red Children's Eyewear in red (www.redoptical.com)

 

Ophus by Lindberg (www.lindberg.com)

 

 

Clara by i.c. berlin (www.ic-berlin.de)

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Marc by Marc Jacobs

14th April 2011 Stripes are fashionably prevalent this season.  In eyewear, Marc Jacobs introduces a new acetate sunglass collection with a jaunty, glamorous spirit.  This 1980’s inspired multi-coloured design features vertical stripes on the temples.  Available in a variety of chic colours, these frames possess both a modern and vintage feel.  The striking colour combinations add distinct zing to spring outfits.  Jacobs, who studied fashion in New York City at the renowned Parsons School of Design, is an award-winning designer whose clothing and accessories are sought after by an international following of style aware clients. JG www.marcjacobs.com

Trend alert: the iconic cat eye

Terry by Face à Face

The catseye has been a major success this season, and it’s still right up there. I have a special fondness for this shape as it was the first interesting spectacle shape I wore when I started to report about frame design some 12 years ago. Face à Face has presented me with this marvellous retro cat shape today which oozes elegance…the extra touch I love is the charming little 1950s inspired metal insert on each side of the front which catches the light. There are plenty of ‘cats’ around at the moment but the quality ones such as model Terry here are a delight. For more styles by this Parisian eyewear design company visit the website www.faceaface-paris.com CN