Tipton Eyewear Hungary
This is a collection that I haven’t seen yet, but I find very intriguing. Respecting the environment is the philosophy behind Tipton Eyewear. Designer Zack Tipton’s handmade frames are created from salvaged acetate and records. The frame featured above is from the Vinylize range, and merges both vintage and modern ingredients that result in a stylish, unique look. The grooves on the frame front are instant distinction. The Budapest based designer also produces a cinematique collection that is created from salvaged acetate, stainless steel and vintage film. The collection is currently distributed in France, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary and America. With such an unusual approach to eyewear, it won’t be long before Tipton Eyewear is available in other countries. www.tipton.hu JG
Fluffer
Chrome Hearts
I confess to a passion for voluminous frame shapes, so Fluffer is definitely a design with great appeal – I loved it the moment I saw it. The details are intricate – it’s a classic retro shape, with a 3-dimensional titanium punch-out frame front. The “floating” lenses are securely held in place with nylon wire. Leather simulated enamel inlays accent the top portion of the frame front above each lens. A sterling silver barrel with the Chrome Hearts “plus” motif marks the point where the temples make the transition to Tegu leather – the hide from a Tegu lizard. The end-tips feature the Chrome Hearts motif in sterling silver. Fluffer possesses distinguished characteristics. For further details, visit www.chromehearts.com JG
Gossip
Sama Eyewear
When I saw this frame at MIDO, I marked in my notes ‘great style’ – it really is! Handmade in Japan, the frame also has an intriguing provenance. Designers Shelia and Ross Vance were inspired by the beauty and mystique of ancient Egyptian culture and design. The soft, oversized shape of Gossip is in layered acetate exclusive to Sama. The temples, in titanium, represent a “Breast Plate” worn by a queen of the sun, and constructed with state of the art laser cutting. Another special feature is the reversed plating, with the outside and inside of the temples in different colours. It’s a dashing, glamorous frame, and especially beautiful in this deep, intense aubergine shade. www.samaeyewear.net JG
Dentel B98.1 A63-S337
Francis Klein
When I visited the Francis Klein studio in Paris, this is one of the frames that immediately caught my “eye”. It’s stylish, a bit racy in bold red and black acetate, with mini coloured pearl and bead trim. Red is set to have fashion impact in the coming months for clothes and accessories, and black is always a fashionista favourite. The details on this frame are fantastic- the frame sides have the illusion of a pleated ruche effect – “ruche” is a fashion trim used in clothing. A strip of red acetate runs between the black – a chic accent. The frame is also a stunner in black acetate and crystal. The collection is available in the delightful little Francis Klein boutique at 30, rue Bonaparte 75006 Paris. For further details: www.francisklein.com JG
Voyage Voyage
Lunettes Kollektion
Described as a classic panto, the elegant model Voyage Voyage is sleek and streamlined with a finely curved temple so that front and arm merge seamlessly into one. The colour choices are an instant draw – foggy grey, smoky asphalt, honey and tortoise are included in the line…each one offering a chic yet pared down look that I believe will work perfectly for the coming season (for those who love a minimal approach to vintage).
Lunettes Kollektion frames are packaged in handmade boxes, by the traditional Berlin-based card and paper company Ernst Ließ. The frames are handmade by traditional, family-owned producers in small batches. The materials used are described as the “finest” available. An unpretentious, high-quality collection which we hope to see a lot more of. CN