In a little workshop in Barcelona, Baptiste Vuerich creates original, fun frames handcrafted from old recycled skateboard decks. Vuerich points out that only used decks – which he buys mainly from skateboarder teenagers – are transformed into frames. Cruisin is artfully designed so that the smooth wood grain is evident, and the pale blue sides add a delicate touch. www.vuerichb.com JG
Cool, fresh and pure lines keynote this lovely frame by Tom Stevens. The Netherlands based designer creates quality eyewear for men and women who appreciate refinement and frames with linear flow . Refreshing mint green is the gracious colour for Chloe in beta titanium, that is coated with a special lacquer for sustainability. www.stevenseyewear.com JG
1st June 2013 Vala 9/9 (above) is one of the Limited Edition designs in the evocative Nine Worthies Collection, the most recent launch from the British label Fan Optics. The label highlights a commitment to traditional spectacle making, producing, unusually, its frames in England, whilst bringing together some of the highest-quality materials available in the business. These include special multi-barreled hinges, Zeiss sun lenses for good UV protection, and a handmade soft leather case also produced in the UK.
For the Nine Worthies, the clean elegant shapes from FAN’s existing inaugural collection are created in a rare 90s Italian vintage acetate. Found in the old English factory where the Fan Optics designs are produced, it has a character and artisanal finish all of its own.
And the significance of the 14th century name? The nine special frames in the Edition – three shapes in three colour variants – pay hommage to the nine historical, scriptural and legendary personages of the Middle Ages – the Nine Worthies – representing the ideals of chivalry. They were a common theme in art and literature at the time, and a reminder, to those who saw these representations, of bravery, heroism and high deeds. It’s a great story and link for these frames of substance, and one that might have you leafing through dusty old history books to find out more. For more information on the Nine Worthies by FAN Optics plus superb online sunglasses shopping, visit www.fanoptics.co.uk
This is an exclusive report by Eyestylist.com. For more on the British label FAN Optics visit: https://www.eyestylist.com/2013/05/trendsetting-sunglasses/
There is a momentum for environmentally friendly frames, and the independent label Rigards sets the pace. The Hong Kong atelier specialises in artisan designs that are made from water buffalo horn on small African farms. I saw the collection when Rigards presented in Paris, and the designs include the above frame with its signature individuality. The frames are creative, with unexpected shapes and decorative accents. www.rigards.com JG
Clodagh and I recently spent a leisurely afternoon discovering and admiring frames from the Lesca collection. The company is a vintage specialist, and we loved seeing the gorgeous designs, in wonderful materials, handcrafted with the finest details. Just right for summer are these creamy satin acetate sunglasses, beautifully moulded into a distinctive shape. The fit is superb, and the high quality lenses provide excellent sun protection. www.lescalunetier.com JG