August 2011

Trend watch: rich print and pattern

Lafont’s ornate optical model Gaufrette 550 translates this winter trend perfectly, combining in one single design a distinctive patterned acetate with intricate gemstone studded metalwork. These are techniques that this exclusive French brand has developed and perfected over many years, and they are very much in tune with the sumptuous fabrics and ornate detailing in this winter’s fashion collections. One of our favourite optical styles for women so far in the upcoming Autumn/Winter Collections. For more information and stockists visit www.lafont.com CN

Coco and the Row

A leopard-inspired creation by Anna-Karin Karlsson

22nd August 2011 Anna-Karin sent me this picture recently and I couldn’t resist it, I am also a big fan of leopard print and this large fashion shape really does this patterned acetate justice. The Swedish-born designer says she hadn’d been able to find a really amazing pair of leopard print sunglasses in recent years and felt inspired to create them herself. 10 months since her official launch, Anna-Karin’s designs continue to excite the fashion industry and she has just received a nomination for ‘Accessory Designer 2011’ at the Swedish fashion award Guldknappen.www.annakarinkarlsson.com/buy.php CN

 

Eyewear Enthusiasts

Anne-Solène Guerin, Marketing Executive, Paris, France

21st August, 2011 “My fashion style is classical, yet not boring.  So I like to find clothes that have extra special details, or sometimes – in bright colours. Quality and good cuts are very important.  For example, if I’m looking for a raincoat, it’s usually Burberry, and I like designs by Catherine Andre.  I also like Renouard (www.maroquinerie-renouard.com) from Brittany.  With glasses too, I like something different.  I have a small face, and the trend right now is for big frames, but large shapes make me look like a fly! It was a problem to find small sunglasses, but when I tried on Lafont, it was – OK – that’s it! I didn’t know the brand before, and I really like the small shape. I love to sail and on the water wear Vaurnet (Anne-Solène in Vaurnet, shown above) with polarized lenses. The shape is great as it protects the eye area, and they are really designed for sport – they don’t move and fit well.” JG

LE 37670

TD Tom Davies

16th August 2011 Some lovely new eyewear collections are filtering across our desks, even during this relaxed, easy paced holiday time. We’re eager to share these new designs with you, and one that has especially grabbed our attention, is a collection of six Limited Edition frames for women, from TD Tom Davies.  The made-to-measure, hand finished designs in luscious acetate include this beautiful frame (above) with graduated colours.  A hint of vintage shaping adds to the allure of the luxurious styling.  The neutral colourations are perfect for early autumn fashions. Other designs in this Limited Edition series feature striped and transparent/opaque contrasts. JG www.tdtomdavies.com

Eyewear Enthusiasts

Gilles Choukroun, Chef and owner of MBC Gilles Choukroun, Paris, France

14th August 2011 My favourite sunglasses are by Ray Ban (Gilles wears Ray Ban in the above photo), and Gold and Wood – they have some excellent designs. I like black frames, but sometimes I like colour too – especially orange or green. When I’m looking for glasses, I visit different boutiques because there are a lot of frames, and the choice is very difficult! My preferences are for frames that are simple, without decoration.  I like casual clothes, never a suit! In the restaurant kitchen, it’s really casual – jeans and a black chef jacket. Kenzo men’s wear is super, and I also like casual wear from Oxbow.” JG