Search results for jfrey

Trends: a summer of bright opticals (for free-spirits)

28th May 2026

Fearless sculpted and architectural forms, bold avant-garde statements and a fresh blast of artsy colour…..this summer’s optical frames leave plenty of room for expressive new styling for the face

Absolutely every fashion channel and influencer has flagged a sunglasses trend or two for the summer season, while optical frames have been all but ignored by mainstream press. Yet our feed of new optical frame launches and updates reveals a particularly fresh wave of expressive designs and ideas on colour – offering a freedom of choice that feels liberating…

Eyestylist.com has selected six individual styles to illustrate the direction, frames that paint a picture of the boldest undercurrent in optical frame trends where breaking the rules allows for bold expression in colour and form. Above: Oscar Mamooi “avantgarde” optical model Neptune – inspired by the ephemeral ripples drawn by the wind on the sand. Mamooi’s shapes are dreamy and chic, always offering expressive yet flattering shapes and colourways – www.oscarmamooi.com

Masahiromaruyama MM-0112 in Blue/Pink/Green – “Step” concept – the asymmetry is evident on the front in the tiny metal pins

The Japanese brand, Masahiromaruyama releases unique frames based on the concept of unfinished art. This week, the brand has announced the new styles Monocle and Step, both with full-rim designs that have a striking presence. MM-0112 (above) has a refined structure with layered and distinctive detailing. The model features uniquely designed left and right end pieces on the reverse side, while the end pieces are fixed using only rivet pins. The ‘layered” effect from the front to the end pieces and temples creates added depth and character in this design. www.masahiromaruyama.com

Bright pink plastic round eyeglasses with clear lenses and nose pads on a white background, front view for product listing. — Toppings by theo – Flat Hazelnut – “bold flavour, full character” – ‘bubblegum’ bright colours are also big on the catwalk

Announced this week, Toppings by theo explores the interplay between softness, contrast and graphic elegance, playing with layering in both shape and material. The titanium structure of each frame creates precision and lightness, while the rounded acetate overlay adds softness, colour and expression. The contrast between the two materials creates a frame that feels graphic yet smooth, structured yet playful. Find out more about Toppings at www.theo.be

MIDO 6-8 February 2027. Welcome to Eyewearland

SILMO Paris - The Optical Fair. 25th - 28th September 2026

LOFT Santa Monica Show October 16th and 17th

Optical frames for summer: Nina Mûr fuses craftsmanship and technology, offering sustainable and contemporary design eyewear – Ziggy in Sand Yellow for Summer

Nina Mûr’s Luminiers collection celebrates design as art. Each frame has an architectural structure, exploring completely new forms of aesthetic, technical and emotional expression. The collection is designed with colours for different seasons. Warm tones of lavender, ruby and yellow are suggested for summer. Nina Mûr uses its distinctive high-quality sustainable materials in Luminiers, transforming the glasses into objects of desire and contemplation—meant to be worn and displayed. https://ninamur.com/en/luminiers-collection/

For J.F. Rey, colour leads the way as the creative spark behind expressive designs. JF1599 – one of their many dazzling women’s optical styles with a summery vibe – is oversized with a geometric shape. Thhe layered acetate construction creates depth and relief. Transparencies and eye-catching colour contrasts form a graphic palette that is modern and expressive -. www.jfrey.fr

Reviews

Carbonwood by J.F. Rey

5th April 2026

Showcasing advanced aesthetic and comfort properties, new model JF3129 exemplifies the bold ‘tech’ spirit of J.F. Rey’s carbon fibre combination designs for men

The new statement ophthalmic aviator design from J.F. Rey has a visually striking appearance thanks to the combination of materials and their performance details. The frames in the series boast a sophisticated multilayer construction, combining carbon and aluminium within an ultra-thin 4mm structure. Compressed under high pressure, without glue or solvents, the result is a finish that offers lightness and real strength.

The contrast in the materials defines the unique character of this popular J.F. Rey collection. Wood brings warmth and authenticity, while technical fibers (the carbon and glass) lend a more contemporary look. ‘Technical’ tones (such as the bright blue pictured below) paired with varnished wood finishes further emphasise a unique duality in the design. Above: model wears JF3129

JF3129 by J.F. Rey – a flat-top design for men

With focus on the technical performance of the details, the frame style features the patented, screwless J.F. Rey Olympus hinge for flexibility and durability, adding a true signature detail on the frame. Ergofeel® VISOTTICA nose pads ensure a precise fit for superior comfort. The frame comes in four tones including a red-flecked version as well as the blue/wood combination pictured above. Find out more at www.jfrey.fr

Design + Inspiration

Fine eyewear trends: Spring gradients + fade effects

24th February 2026

Colourful gradients are popular in the Spring collections: some feature multiple colours in a single design, or elegant effects with crystal and bright colour contrasts

Gradients pop in the new optical and sunglasses collections for men and women. We last mentioned the trend in October 2025 (https://www.eyestylist.com/2025/10/autumn-eyewear-trends-artistic-gradients/), and since then we have seen more complex colour combinations and high-impact colour effects establishing the continuation of the trend in optical frames and sunglasses collections. Above: Model Flynn 2 by FACE A FACE: a men’s sunglass style with an imposing shape, this style explores a smoky masculine colour palette, www.faceaface-paris.com

KOMONO: complex graduated colours in acetate: model Iggy in Thyme Blush

Eyewear brand KOMONO uses soft gradients to bring movement and dimension to their styles in the new collection. Horizontal and vertical fades blur the lines between colours, creating a fluid effortless look with a contemporary edge. The imposing Iggy style, an oversized octagonal design, is powerful and feminine at the same time. www.komono.com

A men’s optical frame, model Hyland by Seraphin has a softly squared shape and lifted browline. The frame comes in three gradient finishes, the chestnut/chestnut fade pictured above, as well as navy/navy smoke or sienna/sienna ember fade. Seraphin Eyewear is available at www.ogieyewear.com

In the women’s collection at French eyewear label J.F. Rey, playful combinations and unexpected contrasts are a key theme, and subtle gradients in acetate make a beautiful special feature. The chromatic sophistication in this collection enhances the presence of each design, giving it a particular identity and artistic character through contrast. Model JF3120 is a metal and acetate design (square eye shape) where the materials interact, as well as the colours, to offer “a refined sophistication”. Find out more about this colourful eyewear collection at www.jfrey.fr

Design + Inspiration

Mido 2026 Preview: spotlight on Independent eyewear design and innovation

27th January 2026

Mido returns to Fiera Milano, Rho (from 31st January to 2nd February 2026) for three days of design and innovation showcases, networking, education and business-development opportunities. The event, which is the 54th edition, will see a vast presentation of eyewear brands from around the world, with opportunities to discover the whole spectrum of products relevant to 2026 and seasons ahead.

Event organisers highlight the different areas of the fair for visitors: the heart of Hall 1, the Fashion Square, will be completely updated for this edition. In Hall 4, the square will feature an installation dedicated to the Italian DaTE Eyewear event and the square in Hall 6 will host the new edition of the eyewear exhibition, The Lens of Time.

The Design area returns to Halls 2 + 4: ‘growing’ exhibitors and new entries will be showing in this area, including some brands previously featured in the Academy. This year the Academy, in Hall 6, described by the organisers as “an accelerator for young brands” will host over 90 companies. The ‘Start Up’ area will see the participation of about 20 new companies presenting projects and products with focus on innovation in design.

The exhibition, “The Lens of Time” will be a highlight this year in Hall 6: originally launched in Venice, this exhibition dedicated to the history of eyewear, and conceived by ANFAO, will be on show at Mido with a new format for the international visitors at the fair. The exhibition traces the evolution of eyewear from its origins to the present day, highlighting its cultural, artisanal and stylistic value. After Mido, the exhibition will move to Rome and the Palazzo Piacentini, headquarters of the Ministry of Enterprise and Made in Italy, with future plans of moving abroad. Find out more about the original exhibition here: https://www.eyestylist.com/2025/05/the-lens-of-time-venice/

In 2025, Mido recorded 42,000 people attending the international event in Milan through three days, visiting from 168 countries, and more than 400 accredited national and international journalists.

For the 2026 edition, a MIDO App is now available to download for exhibitors and visitors to manage the show experience with ease and efficiency.

Above + below: Eyestylist details a few of the new and innovative designs which will be shown for the first time when the event opens on Saturday.

Above: Faboor will exhibit in Hall 2 (stand S38) at Mido – with an engineering-driven approach to eyewear design, Faboor frames are made from solid ERGAL 7075 (a high performance aluminium alloy) with anodised finishes – the brand is manifesting a bold creative direction for 2026: expect a a strong concept-driven collection, www.faboor.it

NINA MÛR – model Beatrice will be unveiled at MIDO this coming weekend

The design label, NINA MÛR will release eight new models at the event, as well as showcasing new materials, one of their consistent and most uniquely explored design qualities. The frame above is called Beatrice, and is pictured in Warm White / Blue Klein. NINA MÛR continues to apply new ideas to eyewear design through new interpretations of sustainable materials like ply wood, unconventional frame shapes with an organic appearance, and a deeply creative colour palette that explores colour depth and contrast with virtuosity. The brand is exhibiting at stand AY33 / LAB ACADEMY. www.ninamur.com

Model Ueno by Lafont is one of several new designs launching this coming weekend

Lafont Paris will present new models for Spring/Summer at Mido, including the women’s model Ueno, a combined frame characterised by elongated lines, and a pure and balanced aesthetic. The subtle interplay of metal cutouts on the front enhances the look. Made exclusively in France, the Lafont Paris collections continue to uphold the artisan excellence and detail precision of authentic French production through partner Thierry s.a., the renowned family-run eyewear maker in the Jura region. Lafont Paris is exhibiting in Hall 2 – Stand V41 Z42. Find out more at www.lafont.com

PRESS Eyewear: the Carved Collection will launch in Milan – pictured, model Trane has a high bridge and beautiful eye shape with double rim detail

PRESS Eyewear will launch a new sun/optical collection for Spring/Summer 2026, produced in titanium and handcrafted in Japan. A tribute to America’s truest musical art form, jazz, and some of the world’s most iconic musicians, the Carved Collection embodies the signature character and style of the New York eyewear brand, paying rigorous attention to quality and technical sophistication while really making an impact through remarkable construction, material combinations and distinctive yet timeless colour combinations. Find PRESS Eyewear in Hall 4 – Stand Q20. www.presseyewear.com

Gamine New York is celebrating 10 years with new striking releases for Mido – “celebrating the spirit of individuality…”

Gamine New York will launch a limited edition, two signature models and 5 new titanium styles at MIDO this year. The brand first launched at the event in 2016, and for this special occasion, they are moving out of the Lab and into Hall 4 (stand P09 Q10). Gamine.nyc

French eyewear producer J.F. Rey’s press preview for the Milan event is extensive, with an array of women’s optical designs in beautiful colours and transparencies, bold multicoloured sunglasses (such as the decorative model Chiara above) and a popular signature men’s collection. The women’s sunglasses are really distinctive for Spring/Summer 2026, bringing multiple colours into play along with layering effects and gradients. The J.F. REY stand will be located in Hall 4 – Stand L11 L13 M12 M14. Find out more at www.jfrey.fr

Mido takes place from Saturday 31st January to 2nd February 2026. Find out more about what’s on over the 3 days at www.mido.com

This feature offers a small taste of the new designs coming to Mido, Milan this coming weekend. We have lots more editorials and features coming up on the new releases. An Eyestylist feature by Clodagh Norton – not using AI. All rights reserved. Copyright protected.

Design + Inspiration

Eyestylist is 15 today

12th January 2026

Eyestylist.com was launched on 12th January 2011. The Eyestylist archive now features more than 3000 articles, trend stories, reviews and interviews with creatives, eyewear designers and independent optical retailers. Today we mark the occasion with the launch of a fresh look for the site and the Eyestylist logo and branding….follow our content in the next weeks to find out more about the last 15 years …and to follow views on what the future holds…

Created as a dedicated site for quality-driven independent eyewear brands of all sizes, Eyestylist started its journey as a review site and news source about independent eyewear and emerging designers. At the time, there were no other resources online specialising in design history, trends, news about the world of eyewear, and to this day, there are no other journalist-written websites reporting exclusively on the independent brands in the business – from small artisan labels to iconic luxury names, as well as reporting on related international events, independent eyewear stores around the world and stories with cultural significance to the creative optical field. We’ve been known to break a story or two about launches and news in the business! Above: Tortoise Jungle by Robert Marc – the first product reviewed on Eyestylist – posted on 12th January 2011

Audrey by Oliver Goldsmith Sunglasses, one of the first sunglasses featured on Eyestylist in 2011

In the weeks, ahead we will be publishing a series of articles and posts which look back over the last 15 years in eyewear and accessories design – since we published the first editorial in Jan. 2011 – https://www.eyestylist.com/2011/01/introduction/ – here we outlined our editorial mission at the time…. “to create a personal selection of individual pieces which we believe are representative of our times, unique in their features and absolutely worth a peep if you are into eyewear, sell glasses or sunglasses, or if you simply want to find a style for yourself that stands out from the crowd……” We will be looking forward to talking to some of the designers and retailers who have participated and supported the site through the years as it has developed and flourished.

Tuba by l.a. Eyeworks: the first l.a. eyeworks frame to be highlighted on Eyestylist.com

At the beginning, in 2011, it quickly became evident that by visiting workshops and production sites where possible, and meeting the designers and brand innovators at eyewear events in different parts of the world, Eyestylist could grow and flourish, developing new exclusive content, meeting emerging designers, and experiencing the eyewear designers’ world first hand – to create a site that explores this world of creativity and design from many perspectives.

Fabric frames by Lafont Paris (2016): Eyestylist visited the Lafont stores in Paris in 2016

Today we have followers and readers across the world. Our archive of content and feeds both here and on social media continues to grow and develop, with the original Eyestylist commitment to the leaders and innovators in avantgarde, handmade, luxury and fine glasses, sunglasses and accessories and the optical retailers who are ‘ambassadors’ for these exceptional brands. We have an endless appetite for innovation, design excellence and quality.

We have developed an interest in sustainability and how independent eyewear brands – and the business as a whole – are shifting their perspective to take a more holistic approach to sustainable innovations and developments, accelerating sustainable transformation (On this topic, we recommend reading our recent interview with Co-Founder of Frame the Future, Xenia Glutz Von Blotzheim : https://www.eyestylist.com/2025/11/xenia-glutz-von-blotzheim-co-founder-frame-the-future/

Work by jewellery and eyewear designer, Ely Yili Cao, featured on Eyestylist in August 2020 – Eyestylist highlights new and emerging talent in the business

We wish to send our special thanks to all those brands and individuals who have been a part of Eyestylist in the past and continue to support us going forward, and for all our continuing Sponsors in 2026, among them both iconic brands and a number of newcomers – as well as the international eyewear events:

With thanks to: ARTICLE ONE (www.articleoneeyewear.com); Blackfin (www.blackfin.eu); Diffuser Tokyo (www.diffuser-tokyo.com); Erker’s 1879 (www.erkers1879.com); FACE A FACE (www.faceaface-paris.com); FAOFLEX (Dandy’s and Germano Gambini (www.dandyseyewear.com and www.germanogambini.com); GOTTI Switzerland (www.gotti.ch); J.F. REY (www.jfrey.fr); Jisco Eyewear (www.jiscoeyewear.com) Lafont Paris (www.lafont.com); l.a. eyeworks (www.laeyeworks.com); LAMARCA Eyewear (www.lamarcaeyewear.com); LOFT Eyewear Show (www.lofteyewearshow.com) LOOK (www.lookocchiali.com) MIDO (www.mido.com); MOREL (www.morel-france.com); Otis Eyewear (www.otiseyewear.com); Nina Mur (www.ninamur.com); OGI Eyewear (www.ogieyewear.com); Orgreen Optics (www.orgreenoptics.com) Paloceras (www.paloceras.com); ROLF (www.rolf-spectacles.com); RES/REI (www.resrei.com); RIGARDS (www.rigards.com); SILMO (www.silmoparis.com); TVR Opt (www.tvropt.eu); The LONDONi (www.instagram.com/the_londoni/; 100% Optical (www.100percentoptical.com).

We also thank everyone behind the scenes at Eyestylist as we have a community of dedicated collaborators and individuals who have been involved in making this site a success. With special thanks to all those who are working with us and those who have made important contributions : DOWO Digital (www.dowo.digital), Helen Bratby (designer), Victoria Brunton (journalist), Gennaro D’Elia (fashion photographer – www.gennarodelia.com) and Oak Creative (www.oakcreative.net).

See you at opti and MIDO 2026! For all enquiries about being involved with Eyestylist going forward and advertising bookings, please direct your enquiries to [email protected] and meet us in 2026!