September 2011
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By Clodagh on September 12, 2011
Tragic Heroines of The Palais Garnier from 1875 to 1939
12th September 2011 Opera divas are powerful goddesses, and intricately linked to opera history. The exhibition Tragédiennes de L’Opéra traces some of the singers from 1875 to 1939, who left a lasting impression on opera and Palais Garnier. Founded by King Louis XIV, the stunning structure that stands today was initiated by Emperor Napoleon III during the Second Empire. Austrian diva Gabrielle Krauss performed at the gala Opera opening in 1875. Other singers who form part of the musical history include Rose Caron, Lina Cavaliera (shown above in THAÏS by Jules Massenent in 1907 – photo: BmO, GF 163) Lucienne Bréval who entranced opera goers at Garnier for 30 years, and Mary Garden who shocked audiences with her scandalous Salomé. Through an intriguing collection of costume sketches, photographs, objects from the original productions, jewellery and paintings, plus rare documents, the exhibition illustrates how opera is enriched by its divas. Until 25th Septembre. www.operadeparis.fr JG
Posted in City guides, Uncategorized
By Clodagh on September 6, 2011
Optical History and Adventures in Amsterdam
6th September 2011 Brilmuseum in Amsterdam is a paradise for eyewear lovers. This quirky, enchanting little museum is a celebration of 700 years of eyewear that includes historical frames, optical instruments, posters, photos, and much more. Mijke Teunissen, the fourth generation of a Netherlands optical family says: “The goal is to illustrate the history, art, culture and development of spectacles.” The adventure begins with eyewear from the 15th century through to the amazing designs from Pierre Marly in the 1960′s, to the acclaimed designers of today – Lafont, l.a.eyeworks, J.F. Rey, Oakley, Christian Roth, Judith Leiber, and many more star-studded names. Repeat visits to this oasis of eyewear fascination is always a pleasure. www.brilmuseumamsterdam.nl
If Amsterdam isn’t on your immediate travel itinerary, the next best way to “visit” is to get a copy of Spectacles & Sunglasses published by Pepin Press/Amsterdam www.pepinpress.com JG
Posted in City guides
By Clodagh on September 3, 2011
In a month where not one but two key eyewear exhibitions take place (Vision Expo West and Silmo), we look forward to an exciting time, seeing what’s coming up in terms of trends, colours and new launches. We will be reporting on what we think stands out, in previews through September and in the months following these two international shows. As well as introducing a variety of exceptional collections and designs, including some gems from as far afield as Australia, we will be reporting on some favourite finds in the luxury collections. See you in Paris! CN
Posted in Home, Intro
By Clodagh on September 1, 2011
JF2431 from J.F. Rey
26th September 2011 Laser engraving technology has become increasingly used in eyewear for a variety of effects on the surface of the frame. This exciting design is a very good example, with its modern textured effect and out-there gold colour scheme. It comes from J.F. Rey, the French brand from Marseille. Inspired by the graphic arts, the design has been shortlisted for the Silmo d’Or design award this week. For more on J.F. Rey visit www.jfrey.fr CN
Posted in Category header, Design and Inspiration
By Clodagh on September 1, 2011
Sama Eyewear
26th September California based Sama Eyewear has a twofold agenda with the creation of these sunglasses – to design a unique, luxurious frame, and to help young people. The above frame was introduced to celebrate the company’s 10th Anniversary of “Fashion with a Cause.” The net profits from sales of the Heart of Gold series goes to the Sam Vance Foundation to aid young adults with drug additions. Fabricated in pure Titanium, the concept was to create an extraordinary frame that brings absolute attention to the impact of eyewear as “THE” most important accessory. Multi-dimensional jewellery casting, and custom coloured Swarovski crystals add to the allure. Stunning! www.samaeyewear.com JG
Posted in Home
By Clodagh on September 1, 2011
Chopard
22nd September 2011 For over 150 years, the Swiss firm Chopard has been creating exquisite jewellery and watches. Their understanding of luxury and craftsmanship is also expressed in their beautiful eyewear collection, merging creative artistry with eyewear technology. The finely toned acetate frame above, features silver coloured metal sides, gracefully entwined with Swarovski crystals and crystallized pearls – the latter made of unique crystal core covered with a pearl coating. Advantages of Swarovski Crystal Pearls include their high resistance against sunlight, washing and perfume – therefore the pearl finish will endure. More info at www.chopard.com JG
Posted in Home, Uncategorized
By Clodagh on September 1, 2011
Zoe Jordan/Andy Wolf Collaboration
20th September 2011 Some wonderful pictures have come through from LFW…these are some favourite backstage shots at designer Zoe Jordan’s catwalk show, featuring oversized catseyes in acetate and metal versions from Austrian label Andy Wolf. The frames were perfectly in tune with the collection, paired with classic yet modernized silhouettes and very British fabrics and references (headscarves, tweeds and cricket jumpers) with traits of the 1930s. CN
Andy Wolf Sunglasses at Zoe Jordan
Posted in Home
By Clodagh on September 1, 2011
14th September 2011 The new British label RockOptika will present its debut 10 piece optical collection at Silmo this month…I had a coffee with Tom in his bijoux Hasting’s shop (www.theopticallounge.co.uk) this week, and he showed me the full collection…mixing old-school vintage with some idiosyncratic details, the shapes are designed to be wearable yet bubble with personality, the colours fit perfectly into the new season, including a lovely transparent sea blue and a chic crimson, and each model works just as beautifully with sun as with prescription lenses.
“My aim is to make the frames I have always wanted to make….taking vintage elements and resizing them to make them wearable. I am very conscious of the aesthetics, and injecting something of my own character and a British eccentricity, but I also wanted quality and high-level production.”
Mustique in blue with blue lenses
Designed by Tom in the UK and produced in the Jura, the designs are made from Italian acetate…with some patterned variations featuring…an antique lace motif, and a vintage-look tortoise. As owner of an optical boutique, Tom has a true understanding of the needs of frame wearers in terms of fit and comfort. But he also has an appreciation for the minutiae of eyewear. Little touches such as the larger end tips are there to fit nicely behind the ear as well as adding a quirky touch. Available in the UK at McClintock Eyewear www.mcclintock-eyewear.co.uk. For more information visit www.rockoptika.co.uk CN
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