Boutiques

Chic Swiss Concept Boutique

January 1st 2013

Le Labo Sets the Pace for Fashion Accessories

1st January 2013 Followers of Eyestylist know that I really love Switzerland, and I have found yet another reason to be enchanted – a delightful Concept Store in Geneva – Le Labo. The boutique is the creation of Leila Krir, an optician with fashion flair, optical expertise and unbounded enthusiasm. “I worked in the luxury eyewear sector for more than ten years,” explains Leila, “and I acquired great experience and know how in high-end client relationships. I met a lot of opticians and eyewear designers, and I fell in love with many concept stores that I visited during my different journeys. That’s where the idea of combining both the fashion and eyewear aspects originated.”

The boutique opened in September 2011 and the shop features an impressive roster of eyewear designers: L.G.R., Lotho, Andy Wolf, Prism, Strada del Sole, Retrospecs, Marma London, La Loop and Linda Farrow among others. In addition, Le Labo has a variety of unusual accessories that include scarves from Yarnz, hats from Inverni and cuff links by Samuel Gassmann. Leila is also researching other accessories to introduce into the boutique for next summer.

MIDO 6-8 February 2027. Welcome to Eyewearland

Eyewear and Accessories unite fashionably at Le Labo Geneva

The fashion and optical profile is further highlighted with monthly events held in the boutique. “We could have a designer appearance – like Italia Independent, or have a vintage theme, or a Christmas motif, perhaps combining with other stores in Geneva who have the same philosophy,” says Leila, “as our typical customer is trendy and demanding – looking for the ‘rare pearl’.” If Geneva or somewhere in the region is your destination, do include Le Labo on your ‘must see’ list – it’s a wonderful celebration of fashion eyewear and accessories. www.lelabo-geneva.com JG

Boutiques

Sjaöu Boutique

December 1st 2012

Eyewear Inspiration on The Nordic Island

1st December 2012 Seventeen years ago, Gylfi Björnsson and his wife, Anna Björnsdottir, opened their eyewear boutique Sjaôu in Reykjavik, Iceland. A new chapter in their eyewear story began earlier this year, with the launch of a charming boutique in a new location. “Our customers cover a very broad spectrum of the population of Reykjavik and surrounding areas,” says Gylfi, “and they are mainly people from 15-55 years of age, urban, creative individuals. Ranging from university professors to members of the Icelandic Symphonic Orchestra, or simply the city-centre-café-latte-drinkers and lifestyle enthusiasts, we take great pride in the loyalty of our customers, who usually come back again and again for our personal service and quality eyewear.”

The designer names featured in the shop include Framers, Paul Frank, Theo, Caroline Abram, Moscot and Mykita, among others. Large windows allow passersby an unobstructed view from the street into the shop. The concept is minimalist, with warmth, comfort and a very pleasant ambience. “We have noticed that customers seem to be looking for more conservative/earth tones, or ‘safer’ colours like black, blue, or dark brown, and tortoise has been popular as well. Which is interesting and could be connected to the post-crisis mentality that is a major topic here in Iceland, and is opposite to the pre-2008 economic collapse style that was all about bright colours and crazy shapes. Round shapes and Panto-style glasses remind us of early 20th century design, as well as the continuing 50’s and 60’s plastic frame trend.”

“We have ‘special happenings’ at Sjaöu. In August, we take part in the annual “Culture Night” and offer in-store concerts and a Trunk Show from a brand or designer – Theo, Framers or Mykita for example. In December we offer live music on Saturdays, and a special Christmas welcoming evening with a painting exhibition. We want to create a homey and comfortable environment for our customers; we put our ambition into offering high quality products, and we like to make it easy for customers to express their wishes. We believe that the messages we receive from customers ensures a direct way to the best professional solution. Our two principles are: We sell exciting products, and that our customers enjoying come to see us. We welcome everybody into the shop for consulting, or even just for a talk!” Sjaöu Boutique Hverfisgata 52, Reykjavik, Iceland. JG

Boutiques

Seasonal style

November 24th 2012

Cruz Oculista, Portugal

24th November 2012 Take inspiration from the Portuguese optical store Cruz Oculista, who have created another super glam storefront this year for the Christmas season. The shop pays to tribute to the theatre and the Baroque with a dramatic stage design, and presents the new independent Portuguese label Paulino Spectacles.We love it!

If you are working on a beautiful storefront – optical or accessory stores – for the coming Christmas season, please send us your pictures – the best ones will be included in this section in the weeks ahead or featured on our Facebook page. Refer to our website for contact details. CN

Cruz Oculista, Av. Dr. Armando Goncalves, Edificio Plaza Loja 17, 3000-059 Coimbra, Portugal

Boutiques

Pauric Sweeney launches sunglasses

November 15th 2012

Mayfair, London

15th November 2012 Pauric Sweeney’s Mayfair store is the kind of place you can get hooked on beautiful luxury accessories very quickly. A contrast to the delightful cobbled back street where it is found, the minimal interior design is reflective of the designer’s character and love of refined luxury. The colourful geometric display in the window is described as typical of Sweeney’s style at home.

I visited, on recommendation, to see Sweeney’s first sunglasses collection. Born in Co. Donegal and trained as an architect, the designer launched the accessories label in 2004 and since then has gained international recognition. Produced in prestigious leathers sourced in Italy and finished by hand with elegant stitching and eye-catching detail, he now makes everything from totes to clutches, and has added a successful Diffusion Line – Pauric by Pauric – as well a men’s accessory range.

Made in Japan, the sunglasses blend the designer’s interest in materials and surfaces with references to softly rounded vintage shapes and detail such as retro-chic metalwork, contrasting with pretty shades of acetate. Colours include black, a soft pink (above) and a translucent cobalt blue. Retailing at £330.00, the styles have been produced with a nice quality and finish making them a chic accompaniment to a Sweeney bag – we like the combination of the Dbox (above) and the pale sunglasses (above) in particular. More to come? We shall keep an eye out. Stockists include Luisa Via Roma, Florence, and Avenue 32 (www.avenue32.com). 33, Bruton Place, Mayfair, London W1J6NP. www.pauricsweeney.com CN

Boutiques

Somers Optiek

November 1st 2012

Trendy theo boutique in Antwerp

1st November 2012 Located close to Antwerp’s celebrated cathedral, is an eyewear emporium worth celebrating – Somers Optiek – the theo boutique. Approaching the shop from one of Antwerp’s charming alleys, a delightful splash of colour greets the visitor. And the windows are definitely eye-catchers! Among the unique features of the boutique is that there are few frames on display. “We don’t show many glasses,” says Communications Director Miet Vaes, “as we like the opticians to help the customer to find their perfect glasses.” Sunglasses are displayed on the right of the shop, while there is a separate section, for optical frames. Seventh-five percent of the frames are theo creations, while the balance are guest collections, which rotate on a regular basis.

never use this file without our written permission — Gracious interior at Somers Optiek in Antwerp

The two-level shop is a splendid use of space and imagination. On the lower level is an art and photography gallery, plus an area for eye tests. The vibrant colours, beautiful woods, the pleasant lighting and the openness, along with a very friendly staff, provide customers with an upbeat experience…and then, there are the wonderful Theo frames! “We have many professionals who visit the shop,” says Miet, “and they want something they cannot find elsewhere. We like to create that little bit more – the personalised approach that suits their clothes, profession and lifestyle. The time we spend with customers allows us to know them a little bit more, so they feel comfortable and relaxed.”

If your travel plans include Antwerp, make certain that the innovative Somers Optiek is a destination! www.somersoptiek.be JG