Design + Inspiration

Eyewear artisan creators Barbara McReynolds and Gai Gherardi at l.a. Eyeworks, and Blake Kuwahara have created a dynamic capsule collection. The Los Angeles based trio have designed a Limited Edition of eight frames that combine luxury, beautiful design, imaginative shapes, and vibrant colours. “We set out to distil and combine the essence of both of our brands as an adventure in optical alchemy,” says Gheradi.

Handcrafted in Japan, the expressive ophthalmic frames are called “Two Noons” and Two Rays.” Kuwahara noted: “We wanted the frames to exhibit harmony and tension between opposing shapes and ideas, blending the newness of my ‘frame within a frame’ construction techniques, and the history of l.a. Eyeworks’ timeless shapes and colours.”

Blake Kuwahara x l.a. Eyeworks are iconic, inspired ophthalmic designs. www.laeyeworks.com www.blakekuwahara.com JG

Sunglasses can manifest a unique mystique. They can be contemporary, cool, mysterious, luxurious, elegant, fun – and quite alluring. As you plan your holiday destinations to sunny climes, Eyestylist presents smart selections to wear with stylish splendour, and provide sun protection for your eyes. Cream and white acetate fashioned into a glamorous design – Rêveur – by Matali Crasset (above) for theo triggers thoughts of sand and sea. The bold shape and beautifully classic colouration is certain to make a memorable impression. Discover more of the exciting theo plus Matali Crasset collection at www.theo.be

Tortoiseshell is a perennial, much-loved favourite for sunglasses, and Pollipo’ from Rome has a lovely interpretation. Style 605 is handcrafted in Italy in sandblasted tortoiseshell and Dalmazia grey acetate. Classically streamlined and chic. www.pollipocchiali.it

The latest, fabulous RIGARDS sun frame – RG0077 – derives much of its inspiration from happy childhood memories of manga, monsters and giant robots. Seductively curvy, artistic finesse is evident with the craftsmanship, detailing and smooth bevels. www.rigards.com

Leopard sunglasses created with fabric designed by Aboriginal artists results in a striking design from a special Limited Edition – only 150 pieces – by Jono Hennessy. The frames are constructed using a technique Jono Hennessy developed with Dr. Regina Rossi at Mazzucchelli over thirty years ago. Dynamic and dramatic! www.jonohennessy.com JG

Sunglasses have all the attributes of an “it” accessory – style, design and unique details. For this spring and summer the sunglass options are abundant. Luxury and glamour are keynote at Anna-Karin Karlsson. The Swedish designer chooses soft aqua acetate and stones for her dramatic, romantic design – Decadence. www.annakarinkarlsson.com

Two-tone styling highlights classy, slim wooden sunglasses by ROLF. Handcrafted in Austria, Zephyr is from the ROLF excellence collection, and features an elaborate, distinctive finish, accentuating the beauty of two woods. www.rolf-spectacles.com

The trending Panto shape captures the imagination of Oliviero Zanon at Res/Rei. Leone – with a chic double bridge – is available in a range of beautiful colourations, including Tortoiseshell and white, and a tri-colour mix of royal blue, turquoise and orchid. www.resrei.com

Luminous Jade green acetate with subtle detailing compliments this lovely sunglass design  – Movie 2  – by Face à Face Paris. The voluminous, sculpted shape is a confident sun style statement. www.faceaface.com JG

Exquisite craftsmanship, flawless materials, and timeless design characterise Silhouette Atelier – the company’s outstanding new luxury collection. Designs include wonderfully crafted frames for men  – in titanium and gold – and for women in 18k solid yellow, rose gold or white. Hand-selected diamonds and cabochon-cut gemstones add noble elegance. The frames are a fusion of art and life, and the philosophy of Austrian art nouveau, The Judgendstil. Flowing, graceful lines, impeccable details and traditional goldsmith and stone-setters’ techniques result in luxurious frames with uncompromising quality. (Top image: models wearing Silhouette Atelier at the Milan launch).

Silhouette Atelier G008 (above) expresses contemporary airiness in 18K gold with sixteen diamonds of various sizes – set with superlative precision – adorning the temples.

For men, elegance and luxury are wed with 18K solid gold and titanium. Silhouette Atelier G700 is a  distinctive interpretation of timeless design. More on the stunning Silhouette Atelier collection at www.silhouette.com JG