Featured

Carbonwood by J.F. Rey

5th April 2026

Showcasing advanced aesthetic and comfort properties, new model JF3129 exemplifies the bold ‘tech’ spirit of J.F. Rey’s carbon fibre combination designs for men

The new statement ophthalmic aviator design from J.F. Rey has a visually striking appearance thanks to the combination of materials and their performance details. The frames in the series boast a sophisticated multilayer construction, combining carbon and aluminium within an ultra-thin 4mm structure. Compressed under high pressure, without glue or solvents, the result is a finish that offers lightness and real strength.

The contrast in the materials defines the unique character of this popular J.F. Rey collection. Wood brings warmth and authenticity, while technical fibers (the carbon and glass) lend a more contemporary look. ‘Technical’ tones (such as the bright blue pictured below) paired with varnished wood finishes further emphasise a unique duality in the design. Above: model wears JF3129

MIDO 6-8 February 2027. Welcome to Eyewearland

LOFT Santa Monica Show October 16th and 17th

JF3129 by J.F. Rey – a flat-top design for men

With focus on the technical performance of the details, the frame style features the patented, screwless J.F. Rey Olympus hinge for flexibility and durability, adding a true signature detail on the frame. Ergofeel® VISOTTICA nose pads ensure a precise fit for superior comfort. The frame comes in four tones including a red-flecked version as well as the blue/wood combination pictured above. Find out more at www.jfrey.fr

Design + Inspiration

l.a.Eyeworks reveal cases + cloths in latest collab with Huntley Muir

2nd April 2026

l.a.Eyeworks showed the newly commissioned designs at LOFT in New York. The release includes four protective hard cases and four microfibre cleaning cloths which complement their eyewear collection for 2026.

The cases and cloths have been created by the British-based collaborative duo Huntley Muir (Su Huntley and Donna Muir), comprising a new chapter in a creative partnership with l.a.eyeworks which spans decades. The artists started working with Gai Gherardi in 1980, during the eyewear company’s first year of business. l.a.Eyeworks was a trailblazer at the time for the introduction of art into eyewear accessory design and brand imagery.

One of the cloths from a previous collaboration edition featured on Eyestylist.com in August 2017 as part of a feature about the design of eyewear accessories at the time (https://www.eyestylist.com/2017/08/eyewear-accessories-fashion-function/).

“What we have created for l.a.Eyeworks is a deliberate conversation with Gai and a tribute to her while also answering the brief to bridge into the future…” Su Huntley on the new designs

One of the cloths has been named “Insect Paths”. The theme of the natural world and insect movement is explored “with expressive, human mark-making”. Another cloth and case is inspired by “Rhythm” – ongoing work by the artists made while listening to music. A “Minnie Mouse” character appears again in the new Edition, a motif that has been a recurring symbol for more than 10 years. Other striking motifs include a bold stiletto shoe and a frog, a creature that Gai was particularly fond of.

A previous highlight of the close collaboration, Su Huntley and Donna Muir also created a video called “Walk with l.a.Eyeworks” for l.a.Eyeworks’ 2007 Fashion L.A. Awards nomination in marketing excellence – see the video at https://www.laeyeworks.com/artist-projects-huntley-muir.

Find our more about the new collection at www.laeyeworks.com. Read more about the artists at https://www.huntleymuir.co.uk

Design + Inspiration

Ransome + Jenkin: an independent eyewear label by British experts

18th March 2026

Renowned spectacle maker, Lawrence Jenkin and Hampstead-based optometrist + spectacle maker, Jack Ransome launch small-batch artisan eyewear collection, founded on a shared passion for classical eyewear design and craftsmanship

The new venture, which proposes a collection of beautifully crafted classically styled cellulose acetate frames offers independent opticians a rare opportunity to provide eyewear customers with a quiet form of luxury eyewear, designed exclusively in London. Born out of the experience of two different generations, and bridging the gap between bespoke eyewear and mass production, the frames are distinctive in their proportions and fine timeless shapes, and carefully considered in every aspect, including comfort and fit.

Lawrence Jenkin, who during his career has worked at Anglo American Optical (his father’s company) and Algha Works (East London factory for Savile Row – https://www.eyestylist.com/2020/02/savile-row-london/), is known as a legend in the world of frame-making. A designer, optician and craftsman, his work blends contemporary aesthetics with deep technical knowledge of eyewear construction. He has designed and created frames for celebrities around the world, among them Elton John, Christopher Reeve, Dame Edna Everage and Cher. Jenkin continues to share his knowledge and spectacle-making skills with young designers, RCA students and well-known optical ‘creatives’ across the optical field.

Jack Ransome, who became friends with Jenkin through their shared love of handmade eyewear, is an optometrist ‘with a craftsman’s heart’ – and owner of Ransome Optical. His passion for clinical excellence and craftsmanship bring a fresh vision to the profession in the UK, uniquely representing the new generation. Jack is the maker behind David Hockney’s distinctive yellow spectacles made in his practice located in Hampstead (https://www.ransomeoptical.com). Above: portrait of Lawrence Jenkin and Jack Ransome (image courtesy of Ransome + Jenkin)

The new collection is designed in London and made in a small factory in Italy – Image: Ransome + Jenkin

Through collaboration with lifelong friend Jeremy Baines, the new Ransome + Jenkin collection is produced in the Solmar Eyewear factory in the foothills of the Dolomites, where traditional craftsmanship and technical expertise continue to be carefully preserved. Produced in fine cellulose acetate, and a palette of colours that explores restrained classic hues alongside a bold “Bow red” and softly tinted green opal, each piece can also be customised relatively easily for individual wear and the ideal fit. Details such as 1950s inspired custom-engineered hinges and rivets enhance the character of each crafted design.

The new collection, which was shown for the first time at the 100% Optical event (a trade-only event) in London in March, launches with six classic shapes, including a striking cat eye called Angel, a distinguished iteration of the classic round shape called Brixton, and a spectacular half moon with arched bridge called Bow. Find out more about this new eyewear collection at www.ransomeandjenkin.com

Design + Inspiration

AHLEM Eyewear’s Paris Collection, inspired by fine watchmaking

10th March 2026

The new Limited Edition explores the engineering precision of fine watchmaking – guided by “architectural precision”

Produced in France, AHLEM releases the new models with its signature double-rim construction featuring hand-brushed and polished bevels which catch the light. These details are informed by the fine details and disciplined geometry of Calatrava watches, known for their pure lines and extraordinary technical virtuosity.

Like the balanced bezel and dial architecture of the classic watch, AHLEM creates two precisely milled circles fitting seamlessly together, articulating structure through proportion, contrast, and restraint. Each circle is sculpted from solid stainless steel to exacting dimensions, resulting in a structure of exceptional integrity. Above: AHLEM Paris designs are produced in Limited Edition batches of 600 units per colour

AHLEM Paris 04 – ultrafine bevels, milled with precision, showcase one surface polished to reflect the light and one surface hand brushed that absorbs the light

The beveled metal temples which also trace their origin to the language of classical watchmaking recall the elegant silhouette of Dauphine watch hands: finely faceted blades that capture light along the edge.Electro-dipped in 22k gold, the frames also achieve resilience and a refined character.

The V-groove lens channel allows the lens to sit seamlessly within the frame, while a concealed rim-lock system preserves structural stability without interrupting the purity of the line. Limited to 600 pieces per colour, the frames are available at selected stockists and at www.ahlemeyewear.com.