27th January 2015 Luxury decoration is a desirable look for 2015 – but it is by no means a direction that is new. In ‘Eyewear – A Visual History‘ by Moss Lipow, frames of the 50s are described as “heavily festooned” with motifs – from small and subtle to positively crazy, embellished lavishly with pavé rhinestones, or synthetic – sometimes genuine – rubies and diamonds. Art deco design was much referenced with rhinestones being the preferred sparkle for many women’s designs of the time.
Today, the most desirable decorations on eyewear are those by independent designers who set the bar high: they include wonderful floral designs, metal work, handmade porcelain and luxurious hand assembled gem embellishments – notably, by a young generation of talented female designers including Anna-Karin Karlsson (Sweden) – www.annakarinkarlsson.com, Kerin Rose (NYC) – www.a-morir.com, and Moo Piyasombatkul (Thailand).
Polish based Massada Eyewear – by designer Kate Lupinsky,- adds another take on statement-making decoration in the independent segment, with the launch of her own jewellery collection online. Designed as customised eyewear jewellery, the frames are embellished with 50s inspired decorations on either side of the front. “Model Gnossienne (above and below) is named after a word created by French composer, Eric Satie,” explains Lupinsky. “It was a word to describe a new type of musical symbol.” The frame offers an opportunity to the wearer to decide on their own colour composition, including the lens tint, frame colour and decorative gold and metal work.
Swan Lake (above) features a removable gold clip with coloured Swarovski elements. Made in Italy, each design is classically inspired with an elegant finish, and, for unique contrast, fitted with brightly toned mirror lenses. RRP from 569 euros. www.massadaeyewear.com CN