Swedish designer Anna-Karin Karlsson creates romantic, original eyewear with magical adornment. Among the splendid designs in her new optical collection is Down Lush Boulevard – a charming retro interpretation in black acetate, and white shell roses with gold accents, cascade on the front. Each frame is crafted and drilled by hand. Order romantic Down Lush Boulevard now online via www.annakarinkarlsson.com JG
For an optical frame with elegance and chic, Zero 04 is a beautiful example. Smooth black acetate is finely sculpted with a lifted brow, and then majestically accented with a vintage rolled gold brow bar that extends to the sides. Finest Seven designer Jesse Stevens studied sculpture, and his understanding of the metier brings unique distinction to the frame designs. www.finestseven.com JG
A strong message for ophthalmic frames this year is colour – clear, lucid colour, frequently augmented with sleek marbled effects in contrasting tones. Purple is a favourite – and Anne et Valentin offers this elegant version – D-Tail – in acetate with sharp, clean lines, softened by a murmur of retro/vintage – updated for the present day. The graceful cat eye shape unites dynamism and femininity, accentuating delicate features with an air of assertiveness. www.aneetvalentin.com JG
Colour is keynote at Modelliani – the Italian brand features contemporary shapes with distinct colour harmony. N. Punto 39 is a lovely springtime optical choice in acetate in fresh green tones, balanced with a tortoiseshell camouflage marbled effect. The front has a matt finish, providing a subtle contrast to the frame design. To discover more Mondelliani frames, visit www.mondelliani.it JG
Designer Fabienne Coudray-Meisel combines trend-led colourful patterned acetate – tortoise and stripes – with clear translucent colour – in model Blink from the Volte Face Collection. A line that showcases French quality design and an innovative presentation of colours and materials, the Volte Face collection is available through J.F. Rey stockists and at J.F.Rey Soho (www.jfreysoho.com) in New York.
J.F.Rey Soho, 448 West Broadway New York, NY 10012