This is one of my favourite aviators right now. It’s a Limited Edition of just 100 models, by the Swiss based Strada del Sole. Each of the frames is numbered, and they come in three colours, red, white and blue. There is an aviator version for men (pictured) and a panto style for women. Find this Swiss company’s newly launched website at www.stradadelsole.ch Keep an eye on it! CN
I was impressed by this style when I saw it in January in Munich. Pau Hana is one of Maui Jim’s trendier shapes for 2012 with its cool colour choices and design with uber fashion key hole nose, yet it comes with all the tech features you might expect from this label. A unisex shape, the style is offered in black with dark brown and neutral grey lenses; Tokyo tortoise with Maui Rose lenses and honey with HCL Bronze lenses. The Maui Gradient lenses are dark at the top, and gradually lighter moving down the lens. This means that an appropriate amount of light is allowed to filter through certain areas, while less light comes through where protection is paramount. CN
As you know, we make it our business to seek out all the most exceptional up-and-coming labels. Here is one from Italy, JPlus, which features model Uma in its latest collection which I look forward to seeing in Milan soon. The frames are designed in a very cool work space in Padova and are made in Italy, so the aim is to ensure quality materials and manufacture. Each pair of glasses by JPlus belong to the worlds of Art, Music, Movies, or Design. Named after Uma Thurman, this model is part of their Movie Collection. The signature colour insert on the front is a fun, fresh detail featured on all the frames, using a wide palette of bright contrasting tones. A strong vintage direction runs through the range, with bold shapes and distinguished colour proposals seen throughout. A young team of Italians run the show, headed up by Alessandro Martire. Definitely on my Spring/Summer wishlist. CN
We haven’t yet reviewed many Mikli styles here, so we were pleased to get news on this new aviator collection, Mileage, which reworks and revamps the classic shape. Mikli’s idea is to work on a concept like that of denim jeans, which come in all shapes and styles to suit absolutely everyone….Mileage has therefore been created as a collection based on the classic aviator shape, but offering all sorts of interpretations with 8 styles in 50 colours, and both sun and optical versions. The style pictured – Silverstone – has a circular opening at the bridge which gives its unique appearance. This is the style that particularly stood out for me; it also comes in a version with 24 karat gold plated lenses (model Sakhir). www.mikli.com CN
A sunglass style I’ve tried on a few times, and I love the mirrored lenses. They are gold in the picture but the ones I’ve tried and love have more of a silvery tint. This is a pretty 50s model, and the metallic theme of the mirrored lens very trendy; it’s a style that would pair nicely with many Spring/Summer trends…from pastels to modern prints and patterns. Delightfully feminine. www.givenchy.com CN