Pastels are spot on for spring and summer, and this cool, mint sorbet tone is a winner from KBL. The shape is gentle and flowing, expressing a graceful flourish in fine acetate. An open nosepiece provides an extra dimension of distinctive detail. KBL has a beautiful collection of sunglasses – check it out on www.kbleyewear.com. Available in London at Harvey Nichols, and in Paris at Le Bar D’Opta www.opta.createurs.net JG
Orgreen celebrates their 15th Anniversary this year – plus they have been nominated by the Danish Fashion Awards in two categories. They are also jubilant about the re-launch this stunning frame in Beta Titanium. It’s very 1950’s, with a coquettish cat eye shape, and a charmingly sly cut-out curve. The golden finish, enhanced with black, gives the frame an even more feline feel. It’s also available in sultry electric blue. www.orgreen.dk JG
This frame is ready for action! Titan is an engineering feat by DITA, using a single piece of Japanese acetate – front layered – with a titanium frame over the top. Bold characteristics include acetate side shields, twin titanium temple plates, and a strip of hand laid enamel. The frame is amazingly constructed and detailed – all by hand – in sophisticated colours of black and smoke grey. www.dita.com JG
The Eco Collection from Modo is a good choice if you are wanting easy retro and I like the intentions of this brand: the frames are made from recycled metal and plastic, and for every frame sold, the company has committed to planting a tree. The collection carries an UL Environment Certification, validating that the products are made from a minimum of 95% recycled stainless steel and/or plastic, without any compromise in quality. With the One Frame One Tree initiative, for each pair of Eco frames purchased, Eco plants one tree together with Trees for the Future, a non-profit organization that has been helping communities around the world plant trees since 1989. Eco also created a system that allows customers to donate their unwanted frames to charities helping people with poor vision in developing areas of the world. The box also includes an easy to use mail-in recycling kit. The packaging consists of a box and a case. The box is made of recycled paper and using soy ink for the printing. The case is made of RPET (Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate) which is made out of recycled soda bottles. www.eco-optics.com CN
An acetate/metal “Club” design – semi-rimless with a heavier top and sleek under rim – which for me represents one of the leading shapes for men in 2012 and on into 2013 I believe. Featuring a double barrel and stainless steel optical hinges, the model comes in black satin and demi tort satin. Von Zipper is a South Californian frame producer, with a sports feel – they also produce goggles and apparel. The optical range offers a variety of retro oriented ‘geek chic’ looks for young adults and retro fans. www.vonzipper.com CN