December

Nile

L.G.R.

Nile is one of the optical styles in L.G.R.’s new spectacles collection, which we have seen in full last month. This collection ranks very highly…the acetates are classical and yet have a subtle modern feel about them – this grey marbled version is extremely appealing. I also picked out this model because of its angled eye shape which underlines the handcrafting (and love of craftsmanship) that has gone into this product. A fine product that offers something quite different from the ordinary and mass produced. CN

Azzedine Alaïa Retrospective

Fantastic Alaïa Fashion Creations at The Groninger Museum, The Netherlands

18th December 2011 Femininity, flirtatiousness and flair are the hallmark of Alaïa designs. Women adore his clothes, for their glamour, sensuality, style and cut. To celebrate the couturier’s fabulous collections of the past ten years, The Groninger Museum in Groningen, The Netherlands, presents a stunning exhibition – Azzedine Alaïa in the 21st Century.

Vanessa Friedman in the Financial Times describes the show as: “a tutorial in what happens when an exacting mind relentlessly works a few ideas to their natural extreme – a case study in just how far basic cloth such as knit, wool, cotton and skins can be pushed so that it transforms into something completely other.”

 

Article One
TVR True Vintage Revival
SALT.
MOREL
Res Rei
100% Optical London 24 to 26 February 2024 at Excel London - register for free
OGI Eyewear
LEINZ
Slinky, Sensuous, Timeless: Alaïa

Alaïa’s experimentation and creativity with fabric is splendidly evident, and “completely other”, when translated into designs that embrace and celebrate a woman’s body. This retrospective is a sequel to the original presentation at The Groninger Museum in 1997-1998, that highlighted Alaïa’s early designs. The Tunisian-born Alaïa is one of fashion’s most important couturiers, and the exhibition is a fitting tribute to his extraordinary talents. Until 6 May 2012 www.groningermuseum.nl JG

Mercè

Theo Eyewear

Theo and Tim Van Steenbergen celebrate their fourth collaboration with a Spanish-themed Limited Edition, an ode to Spanish patron saints. Spain and its rich history are the inspiration for this strong, bold design, and the name is a tribute to the patron saint of Barcelona – Mercé. Think of Toreadors, and the beautifully decorated jackets, the passion of Bizet’s Carmen – lively Spanish spirit is interpreted into this stunning acetate and metal design. The frame shape is definitely diva, with its broad form  and colour contrast. Olé! www.theo.be JG

185/S

Bottega Veneta

Bottega Veneta is the venerable Italian brand that makes gorgeous bags with intricate leather weaving. The sunglasses are gorgeous too — the new collection for 2012 includes these lovely acetate sunglasses with elegantly sculptured, voluminous temples. The design is highlighted with a rounded shape that is flattering and glamorous. Details are unique and individual – a motif on the metal core inside the temples, plus five pins on the temples, and a small butterfly on the inside tips. Irresistible! www.bottegaveneta.com JG