February 2012

Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Beaton

Diamond Jubilee Celebration at Victoria & Albert Museum

1st February 2012 Many gala events will take place this year to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Among the most beautiful is the Cecil Beaton photo exhibition at The Victoria & Albert Museum in London. The teenage princess first sat for Beaton in 1942, and for the next three decades, he captured on film memorable moments in the Queen’s life – including wartime images, her Coronation Day, and family photographs. There are nearly 100 portraits, along with comments from Beaton’s diaries, original contact prints, and press cuttings. A perfectionist and a Renaissance man, the premier royal photographer was also an illustrator, avid diarist, and an award-winning stage and costumer designer. The exhibition opens on 8 February and continues through 22 April. Photo above: copyright V&A Images. www.vam.ac.uk JG

Princeton

Leisure Society

Superior materials – titanium and plated gold in 12K, 18K, or 24K,  – highlight this beautiful frame by Shane Baum. The multi-dimensional laser etching on titanium and the rim wire, plus elegant enamel inserts, add to the luxurious look and feel of Princeton (above). Every little detail is meticulous, further expressing the beauty and craftsmanship. With its classic design, this is an heirloom frame, one that will stand the test of time and fashion. www.leisure-society.com JG

Mainstage

Jeremy Tarian

Paris based Jeremy Tarian is inspired by the vitality and vibrancy of New York City for his new collection – frames that simmer with the energy and edginess for which the city is renowned. Brown and black combine handsomely in Mainstage (above) in an acetate design that exudes strength and character. It’s also striking in black and red, or black with chrome. www.jeremytarian.com JG

Culcita

Whiteout & Glare

The fragility of coral reefs is the inspiration for Culcita – a Limited Edition design, and a project dedicated to reef conservation. With its well-proportioned shape and stylish character, Culcita was created as a “product with a cause” – sunglasses with a name and a mission to raise awareness about the rapidly vanishing coral reefs. For more information on Whiteout & Glare designs, and their project, visit www.whiteout-glare.com JG

 

Yachting

Beausoleil Paris

Yachting has all the characteristics of Gatsby days – romantic ports, sunny beaches, and dashing skippers on their yachts. Frédéric Beausoleil has included sophisticated details on this handsome, strong design that include the cut-out on the bridge, and fine ridging on the nosepiece and temples. In addition to this knockout black and chrome colouration (above), Yachting is also available in tortoise and gold. More details at www.beausoleil.fr JG