Reviews

Padma Image, Japan: STK

The designer Meiji Hasui has developed his latest eyewear collection as a new interpretation of an earlier range – STK is based on a concept which explores geometry

Padma Image has launched a new eyewear collection this October, with styles that feature a minimal symmetrical silhouette, resulting from a study of geometric design work. The frames bring a new look to the eyewear brand, which has previously also showcased a selection of intriguing asymmetrical concepts – highlighted on Eyestylist in recent years – https://www.eyestylist.com/2019/12/ue-shita-by-padma-image/

In this new series, the designer returns to his early work and a minimal concept with particular design details including a striking flattened top line. Above: the frames in the STK collection reexplore some of the first frames in the collection produced in 2011, entitled STICK. The geometric shapes feature distinctive lens shapes

Padma Image STK in milky grey (above) and black / stone grey

Padma Image was first created in 2011 by Meiji Hasui with a particular philosophy based on “the pursuit of sensation”. Hasui grew up in the scenic environment of Shikoku Island in Japan, and originally trained as an engineer. His frame designs are derived from and inspired by nature and natural shapes. He is interested in creating graceful lines which blend into the individual’s expression when worn, produce a pleasant and especially flattering result.

The new collection features a new branded photographic campaign shot by the photographer Shintaro Miyawaki

Hasui has developed his company, Padd design LLC in recent years to offer three different unique collections: Padma Image, the original line, N PRODUCT with frames in buffalo horn, and tico chouette, a collection designed with a contemporary edge for small faces. For more information, visit www.padddesign.com

FACE A FACE is sculpting colour

The French brand has launched a collection which fuses colour with bold interpretations

The collection includes several exciting shapes with inventive sculptural silhouettes and contemporary colour ideas. The model Glitch 1 is inspired by the aesthetic of digital screen glitches. The finely crafted frame has a three-step milled design with layers in the transparency. The frame blends charisma, individuality and a modern angular fashion-focused style that will make a great eyewear statement. Above: the Glitch model from FACE A FACE

Framed1 by FACE A FACE

Framed is another colourful example in the range, and a true signature concept of the brand. The style is quite surprising with its blend of angles and softer lines. The designers explain the concept: “inside a very organic shape – the faceted contour of the glasses – you will be able to see a very structured rectangular shape, which draws the inner shape of the eyes, like a cookie cutter….”

The new colour palette features interesting tones of candy pink, cerulean blue grey and transparent sky blue. By fusing these colours together, the frames feel fresh and inventive with a dreamy and digital aura that expresses something magical and new! Find out more at www.faceaface-paris.com

Kuboraum Mask E21

A new handcrafted mask in the Reisen series is released as an exclusive to Kuboraum stores (in Rome, Milan, Berlin and Mexico) and Dover Street Market Ginza and London

The E21 mask – announced this month – is a handcrafted bold wraparound design in acetate, defined by a striking front structure with meticulously ‘skived’ and bevelled edges surrounding the lenses, creating a sharp, refined finish. This design also showcases thick protruding temples with spring hinges for durability and comfort. A straight eyebrow ridge accentuates the assertive character of the design.

E21 in Black Shine – by Kuboraum
The E21 mask by Kuboraum in LTD edition orange – sleek and edgy – the frame is also available in 24h, matt black, black shine, crystal or tortoise

Kuboraum has produced the third journal “We travel To Know Our Own Geography” this season, a free fanzine available to all stores and retailers who stock the collection. The journal offers a comprehensive exploration of Kuboraum’s project and its broader, multifaceted narrative bridging between eyewear, art and music. Find out more at www.kuboraum.com

FACE A FACE: I M PERFECT

Part of the new Dance release at Design Eyewear Group, the I M PERFECT sunglass style is signed by FACE A FACE and results from a creative collaboration between the French and Danish designers at Design Eyewear Group

Inspired by the concept of Wabi-Sabi, the I M PERFECT sunglasses design results from thoughts about how you can see beauty and opportunity in the accidental and unexpected. The designers wanted to explore the possibility of capturing elegance in a fractured or broken lens over which a drop of gold seems to flow towards the sculpted temple. Above: I M PERFECT by FACE A FACE, the simplicity of the design hides particular technical expertise and the know-how of Italian artisans who have produced it with so much finesse – the luxurious design is launched in a limited and numbered edition

FACE A FACE: I M PERFECT was shown for the first time at Silmo Paris 2024 – two lens shapes are available – the square version above or round

The imperfection on the lens is transformed into a beautiful element of the asymmetrical design, and has a jewellery-like finish thanks to the gold embellishment on the “fractured edge”. The I M PERFECT frame has been released in the gold version above as well as a silver finish and a selection of lens colours from which to to choose. www.faceaface-paris.com

Rigards: The Viridi-anne – RG1999TVA

Among the many new pieces shown by Rigards at SILMO, the RG1999TVA stands out for its effortlessly wearable shape and lightweight titanium build

First presented at Paris Fashion Week in June, the new model produced in the collaboration between The Viridi-anne and Rigards draws on a vast array of inspirations. Rigards describes it as recalling an approaching wasp with its antennae up, while at the same time evoking a bird of prey in flight.

The frame has a striking clip system which is secured by a pair of S-curve features: this minute detailing comprises two opposite halves, one closed and one cut-out — flanking the nose bridge, a stylised take on the Yin-Yang symbol. Concealed behind the intricate details are magnets which attach to the main frame with ease and a minimal subtlety.

For decorative effect, the frame and the clip also feature an organic ripple motif, where the delicate lines reference patterns in nature such as dune waves and the ornate foliage of the pinstripe plant. This frame has been released in six elegant colours (some accented with uniquely-placed spot patinas), and it is offered with a semi-hard case made from a single piece of vegetable-tanned Santa Croce leather. For more information, visit the Rigards website at www.rigards.com