Eyestylist

Brows are big news…look out for an experimental twist

November 9th 2026

Browline frames – and new ways of playing with the old-school design and its effect on the face – are a special focus for some independent eyewear designers this winter…expect the unexpected and a deliberately inventive mood…

Classic browline glasses – from the 50s and 60s – bold, chunky and always somewhat intellectual, are a source of inspiration once again. Appearing for the first time in the late 1940s, the style combining heavy brow and sleek metal wireframe has become iconic both for men and women and readily available from independent eyewear brands, with a very classic look or a more avantgarde interpretation – exploring the dimensions, shapes and colours – bringing the look right up to date. Above: the campaign for Upside Brows, by theo – the collection brings the natural feature of the human brow into the design instead of competing with it, says the brand

theo © 2026 Alain Six – model Stance offers presence, attitude and confidence

The frames in the theo collection Upside Brows are “all about the effect”: designed by Patrick Hoet, the emphasis has been placed on the bold lower acetate rims while the upper titanium line is fine and lightweight. Depending on the particular shapes and colours, the frames have very different effects on the face. The idea is inspired by Gianfranco Ferré designs from the 1990s. Patrick was drawn to the distinctive combination of a fine metal upper line and acetate below. For Upside Brows, that visual reference became the starting point for a new exploration of balance, material and expression. As a brow does more than sit above the eye, here it gives the direction to a look, carrying the expression and helping shape the balance of a face. www.theo.be

Cutting a fine figure at SILMO this year, the Giganticus is a memorable, statement frame with chunky animated browlines, rounded contours and a distinct structure. Clever cut-backs showcase layered colour and pattern combinations. www.laeyeworks.com

MIDO 6-8 February 2027. Welcome to Eyewearland

Balfanz by Seraphin: heritage-driven yet modern

A frame that explores the look with a touch of fresh colour, model Balfanz in the Seraphin Collection pairs classic structure with refined metal detailing. The sculpted browline adds definition and presence, while the slim lower eyewire of this shape keeps the silhouette balanced and light. The style offers a polished, tailored feel for all occasions. Created in Japan, the frame features premium acetate and stainless steel. Find more inspiration at www.ogieyewear.com

Nylor – model Lily reinterprets a 1950s browline silhouette in a feminine design for women

Also shown at SILMO, model Lily by Nylor plays on the contrast between softness and character. The bold upper line en lances the expression of the eyes, while its curves offer a natural and expressive femininity. The frame is designed as a personal signature – elegant, independent and free-spirited. Find out more at www.nylor.frr

This feature is by Eyestylist.com – copyright applies.

Reviews

MOREL x Constance Guisset

November 5th 2026

MOREL continues collaboration with designer Constance Guisset, launching three new designs

The new styles – Alinéa, Guillemet (opticals) and Glyphe (optical or sunglass style), are, like those in the first collection, inspired by the art of calligraphy, featuring a distinctive aesthetic style inspired by the thick and thin strokes of the calligrapher’s pen, and the continuous sweeping curves and interplay of colours that are so distinctive in the art of fine handwriting. Above: model Guillemet by MOREL x Constance Guisset

Models Alinéa and Guillemet feature shapes which are more generous and expressive, building on the spirit of different punctuation marks, elements that were seen also when the collection first launched. This time, the proportions have evolved and some curves seem more pronounced, while new colour combinations bring a fresh dimension to the collection. The different hues echo one another, and the gradients blend seamlessly with a delicate translucency – sometimes with three colours in one single design.

Glyphe by MOREL x Constance Guisset – as sunglasses version

For model Glyphe, a more distinctive almond silhouette has been explored. The frame’s generous contours and unique geometry give it a sculptural and feminine appeal. As a sunglass style, the volumes seem even more pronounced. The frame is available in two colourways, including a brown-to-black gradient and a pearlescent nude shade. Like the other sunglasses in the collection, it features polarised lenses with an anti-reflective coating. Find out more at www.morel.com

Boutiques

MYKITA opens store in Los Angeles, its third in the US

November 2nd 2026

The store is situated in Beverly Hills and features a light, open space designed to “engage the senses” – it features a comprehensive vision care service

Translating its signature eyewear universe into a contemporary optical space – MYKITA has created an environment “with the same material integrity and attention to detail that defines all its design” for this latest project.“We have developed a space designed to engage the senses in a deliberate way, elevating the experience beyond the transactional,” says MYKITA founder and creative director Moritz Krueger. “Every aspect of the new store concept has been considered accordingly, creating an atmosphere that feels restorative rather than overstimulating.” An integrated vision care offering complements the interior architecture, giving visitors access to advanced diagnostic technologies and comprehensive eye examinations in a single destination. Above: the new store front, MYKITA Los Angeles

MYKITA Los Angeles: sculptural “Softy” display elements, natural oak and aluminium are featured materials in the matt white interior

Central to the interior is a new interpretation of the iconic MYKITA wall, developed with Berlin studio Gonzalez Haase AAS. Formed from flowing aluminium surfaces, the display system is realised in matt white powder coating for the main showroom and anodised pure aluminium in the consultation lounge. Individual frames are presented on suspended shelves, while soft illumination shining through the slotted surface lends the structure depth and lightness.

A recurring curved geometry creates continuity throughout the space. Appearing across display systems, storage elements, mirrors and seating, the flowing radius establishes a consistent visual rhythm and softens the technical character of the materials. Pale peach serves as an identifying tone throughout the space, complementing the restrained palette of natural oak, aluminium and matt white while transforming functional elements into considered objects. Open oak structures reveal their construction, providing counter space and housing specially developed mobile storage pieces inspired by MYKITA’s signature airline trolleys. Folded aluminium high stools echo the flowing geometry, continuing the dialogue between precision manufacturing and functional design. The sculptural Softy display elements introduce an unexpected tactile dimension. Their monolithic appearance conceals a soft interior of reclaimed foam, creating a sensory interaction while offering a playful perspective on material reuse.

MYKITA Los Angeles: an interior described as “an environment where senses can recalibrate”

Beyond the architecture, every sensory element has been carefully considered. Biodynamic lighting adapts throughout the day in response to natural outdoor conditions, supporting comfortable vision and accurate colour perception. Carefully engineered acoustics combine sustainable sound absorbers with studio-quality sound reproduction and a bespoke ambient sound composition to create a subtle sonic backdrop.

An MDC | MYKITA signature scent and a specially selected tea from Eduard/, the Berlin label founded by tea sommelier Eduardo Molina, add to the sensory experience. The MDC | MYKITA Capsule Institute extends the holistic approach with specialist skincare for the eye area selected in partnership with Berlin beauty authority MDC, founded by Melanie Dal Canton.

Find out more at www.mykita.com

Boutiques

WINK Optometrists – Australia: a colourful, contemporary transformation

October 28th 2026

The Elwood store has seen a dramatic makeover this year, to celebrate 20 years …

The brand new interior at the store in Elwood, Victoria (Australia), has been created by local designers and friends of the WINK team, Andy Kelly and Mitchell Zurek of Brud Studio. “WINK is 20 years in business this year and the current store fit was 10 years old so we saw it as a birthday gift,” the team told Eyestylist when we asked why they chose to refit this year. “We began the design conversation last year. We have been in the beautiful bayside suburb of Elwood in Melbourne for the entire 20 years. We are part of a wonderful community and the high street is a great combination of unique businesses.”

Inspired by Iris Apfel, the new interior features striking custom-made cabinets, including a bright red display unit presenting each piece as a treasured ‘objet’. Natural walnut sits alongside candy-coloured lacquer, travertine, glass and polished metal, creating a layered, lived-in environment that feels more like a home than a conventional optical practice. “The attention to detail reflects our approach to eyewear itself,” they say, “carefully curated, deeply considered and designed to create lasting connections with the people who visit us. WINK’s philosophy has always centred on combining exceptional eye care with a highly curated, design-led environment that fosters connection and individuality.” Above: the new WINK interior features custom-made fittings and unique furniture – the ‘pendant’ light is by local Melbourne artist, Cordon Salon

WINK Optometrists: “The store design has a touch of each of us Lucy – texture, Robbie – clinical clean stainless steel and Jo – colour…and “a feeling of Europe”

“I think you always love the feel and comfort of a place you have adapted to but changing that makes you change things too. It gives new direction…” Jo at WINK

WINK Optometrists: a stunning mix of shiny, natural and textured surfaces – with a bold use of colour and inspiration from Iris Apfel

Asked if the collections have changed since the new store opened, Eyestylist learnt that while new collections have not been added, there is a deeper presentation of some of the favourite brands. “We find that although there may be brand crossover with other stores no one chooses the same unique pieces that we do.” The store also stocks a new Australian-made signature WINK frame and their own chic in-house designed travel cases for storing multiple frames. Find out more at www.winkoptom.com.au

Read our first feature on WINK from September 2011: https://www.eyestylist.com/2011/09/wink-optometrists-melbourne-australia/

Reviews

Blackfin One for Autumn/Winter

October 27th 2026

All focus on precision titanium engineering, aesthetic sensitivity and chromatic experimentation

Attention to detail and a single-minded drive to achieve excellence are reflected in the new Blackfin One styles, such as Lanai (below) and Hamilton (above), frames which express the evolution of the collection and a sophisticated balance between material and design.

Trend-driven and distinctive, the aviator style Hamilton reinterprets the double bridge with a bi-level front milled from a single block of titanium. Colour combinations, such as the new satin light gold paired with black or dark brown, have been explored to emphasize the design, highlighting the interplay between surfaces and details while adding depth to the structure. Above: model Hamilton in the Blackfin One collection

For model Lanai, the generous, feminine shape is enhanced by an expertly hand-applied triple horizontal gradient front – a technique that has been mastered through years of colour application work. An expansion of Blackfin’s exploration of colour, it alters the perception of thickness and heightens the frame’s visual lightness – providing a very distinctive look for the wearer.

Blackfin One is a signature eyewear collection by the Italian company, using sheets of pure titanium with a “free and fluid” interpretation. The collection includes a wide range of shapes for different facial structures, ensuring an ideal fit that offers functionality and comfort. Colour is always innovative in the Blackfin One collection, with contrasting tones and nuanced juxtapositions. Polished and matt surfaces also feature to create unique aesthetic qualities. Find out more at www.blackfin.eu

A visit to …..Nina Mûr : the sustainable eyewear creators of Madrid

Blackfin One for Autumn/Winter

Eyewear extremes: SILMO Paris 2026

Eyewear trends: lilac and purple

Hong Kong International Optical Fair 2026

Lunettes Selection celebrates 20 years

Eyestylist

Brows are big news…look out for an experimental twist

MOREL x Constance Guisset

MYKITA opens store in Los Angeles, its third in the US

WINK Optometrists – Australia: a colourful, contemporary transformation

Blackfin One for Autumn/Winter