May 2011

Henry 5/LO-0909

Lotho Eyewear

Lotho is a recent addition to the French eyewear scene. Artistic principles, flawless workmanship and strong, individual character are the principles of Japanese designer Coco. I’m particularly fond of Henry, shown above, with its unique, chic round contours, in deliciously smooth acetate.  The frames are lightweight, while providing a sense of substance and durability.  Great colours too – the tortoise and mustard shown plus black, crystal, and a variety of confetti colours on black acetate.  Lotho frames are available in Paris at Hervé Domar Opticians 48, rue Dauphine, 75006, and Le Bon Marché. www.lotho.fr JG

Model No. 3

Hyde’s

This has got an interesting look that offers a bit of quirkiness but it’s still quite easy to wear. It’s handmade in acetate and comes in a variety of colours, of which this one and the taupe are very classy. The upper part of the frame is shaped like “a pair of pointy eyebrows” while the rest of the frame is more simple and light in its design, making them fun and wearable at the same time. Priced at 195 euros on the website. Hyde’s was launched in 2010 and resides in Sweden. www.ehydes.com CN

 

Farfale C23/S345

Francis Klein

Creativity, fun, a sense of whimsy, uniqueness, superb quality and unconventional colours are to be found at Francis Klein.  I’ve followed this brand for a long time, and enjoy wearing their sunglasses.  Looking at a Francis Klein collection, you feel as if you’re entering Aladdin’s Cave, because you’ll find some new treasure! This is an artisanal family owned brand, who keep craftsmanship on a high pedestal. Farfale, a trendy cats eye in acetate, (FK mixes all their own acetate) is studded with little Swarovski flowers.  The frames are hand-made, and this design, (plus many others) is available with a different assortment of beads, flowers, and animal motifs. They are truly Collector’s items!  If in Paris, visit the charming Francis Klein shop at 30, rue Bonaparte 75006. www.francisklein.com JG

 

 

EK 1503

Emmanuelle Khanh

Emmanuelle Khanh has always been an inspiration.  She was among the first eyewear designers to take the bold steps that helped capitulate eyewear in the 1980’s into a major fashion accessory.  I still have her frames from those days! The brand has been rekindled and the designs continue to be true to Khanh’s desire for individuality, creativity, quality and colour. The above style features a soft, rounded shape in luscious Burgundy acetate, with a distinctive white line edged neatly into the top of the frame front. EK frames are available at Corso Como in Milan and Marc le Bihan in Paris www.marclebihan.fr More information at www.emmanuellekhanhparis.com JG

CR14302

Christian Roth

The highly influential design team of Christian Roth and Eric Domége have been creating beautiful, luxurious frames for over twenty-five years.  Their designs are a favourite with Clodagh and I. For this summer, I especially like this handmade shimmering acetate design in soft tones of blue and lilac. The fit of Christian Roth frames is perfection, as the frames gently mould to the wearer’s face.  Christian and Eric have a knack for assimilating unexpected shapes, colourations and techniques into memorable eyewear creations.  It’s no wonder that clients include high profile wearers on an international scale. JG www.christian-roth.com