This is one of my favourite aviators right now. It’s a Limited Edition of just 100 models, by the Swiss based Strada del Sole. Each of the frames is numbered, and they come in three colours, red, white and blue. There is an aviator version for men (pictured) and a panto style for women. Find this Swiss company’s newly launched website at www.stradadelsole.ch Keep an eye on it! CN
1st March 2012 L’Osservatorio is a must-see for anyone who loves good frames….there are branches in Milan, Finale Ligure, Alassio and Mondovi (pictured above)…of which we have been to the Milan store and warmly recommend it to anyone going to Mido next week. We spoke to Alfio, director at the Milan branch.
“The Milan shop (Corso Porta Ticinese 83), like our other three stores, was designed by the architect Andrea Meirana. The overall design is inspired by Donal Judd, one of the most significant American artists associated with Minimalism. The concept of the shop is not simply to present a window display showing objects, but rather a “lieu” that treasures and protects the unique qualities of the products it presents. The frames are treated as works of art, and that is why they are placed on glass shelves or special fabrics…in a setting that recalls a jewellery display.”
The Milan shop, like our other two stores, stock very exclusive eyewear lines, including Frency & Mercury, Theo, Mykita, Linda Farrow and collaborations, Lunor, Reiz and Retrospecs, among others.
According to owner of the stores, Gabriele Evangelisti: “My philosophy is that the choice of a pair of glasses in our shops does not end with the purchase, the important story that lies behind each object continues even beyond the contact between the frame and the person who chooses it. The frame becomes a part of the personality of the person wearing it, a distinctive mark, an emotion…My dream is to always have more customers that share my passion for eyewear.”
Does the Italian public have an interest in more unusual brands? “We get a very positive response. The mentality in Italy is that many people are conditioned by famous brands. This is mainly because many of the world famous fashion brands are Italian. In the last year the trends have changed and people now are less keen to spend money only for a brand, they look more and more for the quality of a product. Customers today are also more interested in distinguishing themselves from others and looking more original.
29th February 2012 “When designing men’s eyewear, there are obvious differences in size. Women are buying more masculine styles, but through my couture service, they are applying some basics to make them fit better. When I design for men, I think about the stability of the frame. I find that (no surprises) men treat their frames badly and certain constructions are just not suitable for men. In terms of shape, men go for flatter tops and more geometric lines. Anything that squares up the jaw and make us look more rugged is great. I would say that quality is now important to men, more than before. Overall, we are still miles behind women when it comes to brands and fashion, but it gets closer each year.
Interest in vintage depends on the man and the country. Overall, I’d say that the preference for vintage is stronger in women, but that seems mainly because men are still buying metal frames – vintage is more often about engineered design. In my collection, titanium styles are building momentum. My favourite men’s wear designer is Paul Smith – for his details and quality.” www.tdtomdavies.com JG
21st February 2012 We are looking forward to this restrospective on the master shoemaker at London’s Design Museum in May (changed from a March opening just this week). Louboutin opened his first store in Paris in 1992, so this retrospective, the first in the UK, marks the label’s 20th birthday. Louboutin is staggeringly creative and a peep at the website will give you immediate insight into his incredible world of footwear (and bags galore)…and you’ll literally be kicking your heels to get in to this showcase!
In its exhibition, the Design Museum promises to explain the man behind this world renowned shoe empire, as well as exploring the full design processes used to make a pair of Louboutin shoes. Visit the website (it’s no ordinary one) and get into fabulous shoes at www.christianlouboutin.com CN
Image: Copyright, Photographer Phillippe Gracia from Christian Louboutin book published by Rizzoli.
Christian Louboutin, Design Museum, London, 1st May to 9th July 2012 www.designmuseum.org
Superior materials – titanium and plated gold in 12K, 18K, or 24K, – highlight this beautiful frame by Shane Baum. The multi-dimensional laser etching on titanium and the rim wire, plus elegant enamel inserts, add to the luxurious look and feel of Princeton (above). Every little detail is meticulous, further expressing the beauty and craftsmanship. With its classic design, this is an heirloom frame, one that will stand the test of time and fashion. www.leisure-society.com JG