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At Christmas I was given a leather iphone pouch which has been a very useful gift for keeping my phone clean, well protected and discreet. I recently discovered that the designer of these covers also produces spectacle cases in soft colourful felts, either for use on their own, or with a hard case for extra protection. Susie Brown, the designer behind this Edinburgh-based home and accessories brand uses ethically sourced materials for all her products. I like the simple graphic decorations on the soft pouches which, for spectacles, include an aviator and a cats eye design. For a unique handmade product, these are very reasonable at £15.00 and make excellent presents. CN

http://www.notonthehighstreet.com/susiemaroon/product/respectable-spectacle-s-soft-case

Necklaces, spectacle cases and decorative lorgnettes… 

I have enjoyed finding these colourful eyewear accessories, by some of the specialists in decorative spectacle chains, lorgnettes and cases. Filao Paris is run by Caroline Abram, who shows great creative talent in designing these beautiful pieces, but also now creates her own sunglasses and specs…Caroline uses a variety of materials for the jewellery and accessories, including wood, crystals and felt…Filao Paris has its headquarters in Paris…the creations are put together in a Senagalese workshop, supporting members of the local community. www.filaoparis.com

Also featured here is a young, vibrant company from Spain called Flippan Look (Image 3.) which is specialising in contemporary lorgnettes that can be worn as jewellery around the neck. www.flippanlook.com

French eyewear brand Face à Face has, for some years now, produced a range of chains and necklaces (Image 5.) which coordinate with the company’s stunning frames and sunglasses. They use a variety of materials, acetates that match the glasses, to lovely metals including silver.  www.faceaface-paris.com CN

Images 1. Filao Paris  2. Filao Paris  3. Flippan Look  4. Filao Paris  5. Face à Face  6. Filao Paris.

Cabrio Eyewear

The innovative sunglasses line ‘Cabrio’ differentiates itself by the use of new materials. The designer has invented a special technique of creasing, folding and manual manipulation of the laminated plastic, which determines the desirable shape. The sophisticated material on the outside is combined each time with polypropylene in different colours on the inside and this gives a casual and sporty accent. This is a young collection, presenting a totally novel idea: hat and shades in one. When you try the models on, they are surprisingly wearable…Cabrio Elan, the one pictured, is retailing at around 159 euros. CN

For enquiries about the model in London, try 36 Opticians www.36opticians.co.uk

Schuller Opticians may also be able to help: www.schulleropticians.com

In Paris, try Les Createurs d’Opta, 25 Rue des Abesses www.opta-createurs.net

www.hoet.eu