Lafont is among the masters of successfully uniting vintage elements with contemporary trends. A lovely example is Madame – a sleek design that debuted in Milan. Electric blue meets gradient blue tortoise, and the subtle suggestion of the cat eye shape enhances this chic look. Available in the Paris shops of Lafont – more details at www.lafont.com JG
We’ve raided the Archives of designers who are recognised for their vintage originality and retro spirit. Vintage designs always reveal dandies and delights, like Yang in metal and acetate, created by Barbara McReynolds and Gai Gherardi for l.a.eyeworks. Yang was introduced in 1988, however, the really great ones always feel immediately modern….and Yang is one of them. www.laeyeworks.com JG
From the Vintage archives at Kirk Originals, this frame was created in 1995, and the inspiration behind the design was the timeless chic of Princess Grace of Monaco. She wore glasses – both sunglasses and ophthalmic – and was frequently seen in photos wearing sunglasses. Grace, with its distinctive textured acetate and elegant cat eye shape remains a lovely tribute to a style icon. www.kirkoriginals.com JG
Launched at Milan Fashion Week, the much hyped Persol Reflex Edition is the latest special range from this well-known eyewear brand. The collection pays tribute to the world of photography. There are two sunglasses models and one optical frame, all inspired by vintage design analogue cameras, and reinterpreted using modern technology. The sunglasses feature Polar and Photo-Polar thin glass lenses and a list of design touches such as ultra light slim metal temples (rather than the traditional acetate you might expect) and Meflecto spring hinge system integrated as a decoration on the temples. I tried it in a store in central Milan this week to see if it worked for me, and I would have chosen the rounder shape and the lightest colour. If you are a Persol wearer and want a new look, then this is an update you might consider for Spring. From 210 euros. www.persol.com CN
In the vast beautiful land of Sweden that Anna-Karin Karlsson calls home, the designer excels in creating romantic, revolutionary eyewear. Isola Ella radiates innovation and imagination. Bright turquoise acetate is accented with black and gold in an extravagant cat-eye shape. The intricate gold filigree is a special patented process. Stunning! www.annakarinkarlsson.com JG