Joan

Free-spirited and adventurous, RIGARDS launches their latest exhilarating designs with bold, distinctive silhouettes. Designer Ti Kwa is fascinated with the work of H.R. Giger, the Swiss painter also acclaimed for his amazing special effects in the film Alien. The intrigue with Giger’s concepts led to Sentinel (above), moulded in natural horn with larger than life dimensions that ensure the frame is all the more imposing. Sensuous sculpting on the frame front adds to the dramatic, luxurious and impressive effect.

A favourite childhood film – Clash of the Titans – is the inspiration for RIGARDS striking design Nite Owl. The mechanical owl in the film – Bubo – influenced the stunning, painstakingly crafted frame in lightweight aluminium and magnesium. Deftly cast with a beak-like bridge, flowing sweeping curves, and ribbing details, Nite Owl fully expresses RIGARDS masterful accomplishment for powerful, unorthodox eyewear. Discover more avant-garde, splendid designs from the independent creator at www.rigards.com JG

Travel is synonymous with eyewear creations from KBL. The spirit of discovery, exploring, and adventure permeates in every design. Proficient craftsmanship by Japanese artisans ensures that frames are meticulously produced with exceptional premium materials; distinctive original shapes; and colours with dramatic richness. Sun selections include dynamic and expressive frames that infuse KBL’s quest for streamlined, eloquent and refined designs.

Experimenting with Havana variations, Alex (top image) is shown in Orange tones, and is also available in Green Horn, Crystal Clear and Champagne acetate. Photographed against Berlin’s prominent landmark – the tall, 365 metre TV Tower – built in this vibrant German city, is a reflection of KBL’s attitude and spirit to a modern, fresh, urban approach to eyewear – with exciting, innovative ideas.

Generous shaping in Kudamm reveals a glamorous design that combines acetate and titanium, with flattering graphic contours, exuding a sophisticated aura.

Immerse yourself in relaxing summer afternoons, wearing KBL’s amply shaped butterfly sunglasses – Love Parade. Crafted in Titanium and superbly lightweight, the frames are shown in Gold, and also available in Dark Gun and Rose Gold. KBL showcases a creative, diverse selection of sleek designs in both sunglass and optical versions. Visit www.kbleyewear.com for additional discoveries. JG

Exquisite Swiss precision, luxurious materials, design sensuality and streamlined silhouettes are signature characteristics in Von Arkel’s eyewear creations. The latest designs are stunning collaborations of man and machine: uniting traditional spectacle skills with the most advanced technology. The following video elegantly illustrates the beauty, refinement, precision and perfection that infuses the Von Arkel spirit.

Sleek sun styles include statement Valencia (top image) the new Caliber 4 Outline frame that embraces lightness, special attention to every detail and meticulous polishing borrowed from the watchmaking industry. Simplicity and alignment is an art form at Von Arkel achieved in the masterfully crafted designs. The silver frame features silver temples with crystal end tips and polarised green lenses.

For women in the Calibre 4 Outline selection is the beautifully contoured Verona, smoothly polished with the essential hinge mechanism stripped down to its core. The superbly stylish silver frame features crystal rims, with polarised solar lens in grey and blue. Discover more distinguished designs from the acclaimed Swiss brand at www.vonarkel.com JG