Design + Inspiration

An unlikely inspiration makes for a brilliant and charming concept in a new release by theo, designed in collaboration with South Korean fashion student, Wujic Jo. Previewed at SILMO this month, the design brings together a classic eyewear concept with a humorous twist inspired by the iconic British TV character, Mr Bean.

Working together with theo designer Serge Bracké,  the result is a highly stylised set of frames from Wujic, with an excellent fit and a classy look – like a tailored suit – but with a serious twist. The frames are made of acetate, with a keyhole shaped bridge and rivets – timeless and classic. The influence of Mr. Bean comes in the form of a chrome clip, inspired by the TV character’s Mini Cooper, with tiny windscreen wipers, to wipe the dirt from the lenses, and magic away the entire sun filter…(or seemingly!!)

75 sets of three glasses are available in this edition, in three different versions: glossy black frames with a shiny chrome clip, dark tortoiseshell frames with a shiny gold clip and a light tortoiseshell motif with a matte gold clip. The packaging follows the theme inspired by the Mini Cooper colours – and adds the finishing touch, a seat belt! More details on this collection and other new and brilliant theo releases at www.theo.be CN

Indian summer weather, a unique setting, and splendid eyewear united to make Hall of Frames Zurich 2017 an exciting and informative event. Show coordinators Nathanaël Wenger and Steffen Keil were delighted with the turnout and the upbeat ambience. Wenger commented: “The atmosphere of HOF Zurich was extremely positive for the ninth edition that took place in the Umweltarena in Spreitenbach. The most beautiful autumn weather at a new location warmly welcomed visitors, and over 140 boutiques visited the event.” Top image left to right: Nathanaël Wenger, HOF coordinator; Martha Arenas, Interior designer; Christine Haussener, Eyewear designer; Steffen Keil, HOF coordinator)

Nath noted several new directions in the latest eyewear designs. “Fine-rimmed metal glasses are in demand, and eyeglasses with filigree and softer shapes. Colours are back, and many collections are bolder than previously introduced. Several brands presented new 3D collections.The Wood trend is firmly established with Dominik Gasser from Lungern, Pascal Nüesch from Chur, and Loris Lunettes. So the ‘young wild ones from Switerland’ were creatively represented. Specs Lab from Zurich exhibited for the first time; a small eyewear manufacturer in Zurich’s Old Town. They produce a series for opticians in acetate and horn. EYETECH, the long-standing marketing partner of Hall of Frames, organised photos that were taken by enthusiastic and professional photographer Gilles Stüssi. The images were then developed in an on site darkroom and given to the customer.”

HOF Zurich was also highlighted by well-attended presentations at the Think Tank sessions, as speakers gave educated insights on current topics. Wenger commented: “Martha Arenas demonstrated vividly how to reconstruct a shop or simply decorate a window with simplicity and resourcefulness. For Marcel Zischler sustainability was an issue. He addressed the wide field of employee management, and how employees can be better integrated into a company. Johannes Dillinger talked about the peculiarities and challenges of Carbon eyewear, and Christoph Englehardt  on how an optician himself can become a brand.”

Next year is the 10th anniversary of Hall of Frames Zurich, which will take place in the Papiersaal on 7th and 8th October 2018. This is where HOF Zurich launched, so the show is returning to its original roots. Wenger and Keil noted that an anniversary celebration is in the works – so follow – and stay with us for more news from HOF Zurich! www.hallofframes.ch JG

All photos exclusively for Hall of Frames Zurich/Eyestylist by Gilles Stüssi  All Rights Reserved

Eyewear artisans gather in Stuttgart the weekend of 28-29th October to introduce their latest collections in the captivating atmosphere of Motorworld. The annual event is an ideal platform for independent eyewear designers – both known brands and emerging newcomers – to demonstrate their flair and innovation. Top image: Vintage forever with fabulous Retro style Wyld by Lesca Lunetier www.lescalunetier.com

The Exhibitors

From Adrian Marwitz in Germany to Yuichi Toyana in Japan, plus Götti Switzerland; Coblens; Didier Voirel; Barberini; Blackfin; Lesca Lunetier; Miamai München; Onkel Ferdi; Orgreen; Powder & Heat and more – Die Brillenmesse Stuttgart is an ideal opportunity to experience designs by established companies, and discover intriguing start-ups presenting new and exciting eyewear concepts.

The Think Tank sessions – presented by eyewear professionals – covers informative and timely topics for opticians, including marketing and sales opportunities via social media; 3-D technology; and other creative ideas of specific interest to optical specialists.

In addition to stunning eyewear, visitors can visit the amazing, classic collection of vintage automobiles on display at Motorworld – a nostalgic view of luxury and impeccably crafted motorcars.

Die Brillenmesse Stuttgart looks forward to welcoming you at Motorworld on Saturday 28th October from 11h00 until 18h00, and Sunday 29th October from 10h00 until 16h00. www.diebrillenmesse.de www.motorworld.de JG

Design, Luxury, Craftsmanship and Technical capabilities An especially lively atmosphere was enjoyed at the Paris fair this month, as SILMO celebrated 50 years. The event packed in new exhibitors across the halls, as well as a large number of annual attendees and some who have attended the fair through 50 years. The annual party had an extra special line up and took place in Paris’ iconic Grand Palais.

In the creative eyewear segment, emphasis this year was on design and innovation, with continuing developments in the use of materials, combinations of materials, 3d printed collections, artisan excellence and technicalities such as patented hinge designs. Outstanding hinge designs were shown by innovators ROLF SPECTACLES (a SILMO D’Or winner) and Orgreen Optics.

New ideas in colour and styling were also abundant and set an encouragingly dynamic mood.  Above: FLEYE Copenhagen’s model Fox, an “artistic” design by the innovative Danish company who launched an exciting eyewear campaign related to Scandinavian food : model Fox was the winner of the Silmo D’Or Premiere Classe Special Prize. www.fleyecopenhagen.com

Luxury is an area that was particularly well represented at the fair, and this specialism is seeing some exciting aspects. Alongside classic brands like Gold & Wood (who have announced a new working relationship with designer Alain Mikli) artisan spectacle-makers Alexanian exhibited their sophisticated handmade jewellery designs and special editions produced in The Netherlands. A particular highlight on their booth were their handmade lorgnettes, produced in 18k white gold and set with sparkling diamonds. www.alexanian.nl

Other noteworthy representatives of the luxury eyewear segment included FALVIN Eyewear who showed new models including Halo, a round fashion-focused semi-rimless frame with precious matte surface details. Halo is an elegant add on to FALVIN´s eyewear concept of two toned signature titanium frames designed by Birgitte Falvin in Denmark and made in Japan. The brand also previewed a new line of eyewear necklaces made in unison with the frames – coming soon to Falvin stockists. www.falvineyewear.com

Award-winning SOL SOL ITO represents a splendid example of design achievements by a small independent European label – and this brand is hugely popular with some of the most creative optical stores this year. Their colour concepts for 2018 retain a fresh individual touch with a mix of stunning acid coloration as well as soft pastels and classically inspired animal print. The customisation aspect of the temples – they can be easily swapped in many different colours is a very attractive addition to the gorgeous designs.  www.solsolito.com

Newcomers that caught our eye included the new sunglasses collection by talented optician/designer Joseph Haver and the Belgian brand Komorebi, a youthful trend-oriented design collection inspired by transparency, light and reflection and presented with professionalism and an immediately visible level of quality, attention to detail and craftsmanship. www.komorebi.be

SILMO Paris returns in 2018 on 28th September to 1st October. Eyestylist will share many new insights from this year’s SILMO event in the days and months ahead. www.silmoparis.com CN