Cold temperatures, intense morning fog and a snowy outlook, but whatever the weather, Germany’s Opti fair is always a fresh and friendly start to the eyewear year. A strong mix of technical companies alongside a roster of international eyewear designers and rule-breaking start-ups ensures there is always plenty of innovation and more than a hint of the creative trends on the horizon.
Above: Inspirational eyewear designers – Vue dc Founder, Chris Mascré and Yolande De Clercq, showing chic acetate eyewear designs (below), made in France – www.vuedc.com – Photo by Elisa Biscotti for Eyestylist.com / www.elisabiscotti.de
This year saw new and innovative collection launches from Gotti Switzerland (Rimless Collection), Monoqool Denmark (new Slider Series), Yuniku (vision-centric 3d tailored eyewear by Hoya) and Vava from Berlin (Aluminium Series), among other new releases.
Vava’s new concept of very light designs in aluminium prioritises highly developed physical and mechanical properties – made in Italy, the frames are created using cutting-edge industrial milling techniques. www.vavaeyewear.com
At Falvin Eyewear, A Danish-born brand, the combination of technical precision with luxury has achieved excellent success with optical boutiques and the brand concept evolves with new precious platings of Palladium and 24 carat gold. www.falvineyewear.com
LOOL Eyewear won the first ever Blogger Spectacle Award, part of a new enterprising Opti initiative that puts emerging labels under the spotlight, by introducing them to an audience of fashion and eyewear bloggers who then cast a vote for their favourite concept. LOOL, a start-up from Barcelona by Aris Rubio, co-founder and Alex Carrasco, marketing director, has achieved immediate recognition from the optical and fashion industries for its design excellence and innovative patented hinge system. www.looleyewear.com
Opti 2018 takes place on 12th to 14th January next year. More releases from the Opti fair will appear on Eyestylist.com in the weeks ahead. For further information on the programme of events, visit: www.opti.de CN