April 2011

Prunelle

Karavan Kids

These colourful, fun sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses for babies provide style and protection against the sun’s potentially harmful rays to developing eyes. Prunelle is an environmentally friendly product as well – the frames are made out of castor oil.  Yes! Castor oil! The French based company wanted to make a “green” product that would be safe for baby’s fragile skin and eyes, and they have succeeded with this snappy little design.  Spring hinges and silicone nose pads ensure that the frames stay in place. Further details: www.karavanproduction.com JG

Orion

Lindberg

The Kid/Teen frames from Lindberg enable youngsters to have a positive eyewear experience, with their ultra-light, flexible and adjustable designs, that fit comfortably on a child’s face.  The architectural concept of Orion is an exceptionally high-quality frame that is nickel-free and hypoallergenic.  Although very stylish and extremely lightweight, the frames are strong and sturdy, and can withstand virtually anything. Over the years, Lindberg has amassed 47 design prizes for their imaginative, innovative frames. JG

Further details at www.lindberg.com

Model Barcelona

Red Children’s Eyewear

Round shapes are trendy for adults now, and children love them too.  This is a fun design by Netherlands based Red Children’s Eyewear, who launched their first kid’s collection in 2008.  They produce funky and original styles that children can relate to, in high quality materials.  Barcelona, in stainless steel and acetate is available in bright, fresh red (featured) plus a great purple, muted pink, grey and black. Red Children’s Eyewear designs are available in Brussels at SPRL Sonkes and in Munich at The Eyewear Store. For more information go to www.redoptical.com JG

Vanni Tribe 3403

Nico Design

Italian style and flair are evident in this acetate and metal frame by Vanni, with its elegant shape that is strong and durable.  Parents particularly appreciate those traits! Colours are classic for more serious tastes, like the black and white frame featured, or they are available in snappy lime/black or fluorescent yellow/black.  Other colours in the new Vanni Tribe collection include red, purple and fuchsia, to adapt to the wide range of  teenage fashion demands.  Vanni is part of Nico Design, an optical company based in the cultural and historically rich city of Turin.  Their trendsetting creations have captured a Silmo D’Or and a design award from Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design.  www.nicodesign.it JG

Alfrik and Bumber

Fleye Eyewear

Colourful, innovative and kid-tested! Fleye Eyewear is a Danish company whose latest collection was inspired by youngsters who gave their ideas on colours, shapes and design.  Colour was high on the list of the children’s demands, so the collection includes bold, hip tones of lime, turquoise and lilac.  Materials are completely free of nickel and other potentially allergenic substances. The styles above are in acetate and beta-titanium in snazzy lime green and black.  You can find Fleye Eyewear for kids at Auerbach & Steele in London www.auerbach-steele.com and at Kidzz Eyezz in Amsterdam.  Further info at www.fleye.dk JG