Reviews

Frames of 2023: Rigards x Uma Wang UW14

“Opulence that’s hidden, like frescoes inside a grotto…”  — Angelo Flaccavento; UMA WANG Fall/Winter 2023-2024 Paris Fashion Week

For those who follow the work of Rigards, the UW14 is one of 2023’s must-try pieces. Its somewhat exotic Buddhist art inspiration – the flying apsaras at the Mogao Caves – are supernatural figures with swirling draperies and flowing sashes, all details of which informed both the organic lines of the bridge of the spectacles and the two detachable chains, which not only transform into an eyeglass necklace, but can also fasten onto the temples to appear like pseudo rope chain earrings. Above: Rigards x Uma Wang UW14

RIGARDS x Uma Wang

To complement the frame’s distilled silhouette, strong-but-light titanium is used to achieve a structure that is lithe and graceful. The colours of the metal, of which there are four, are completely restrained in delicate matt finishes.

RIGARDS x Uma Wang – the frame has an unusual dipped bridge design and nose pads that are directed upwards from the lower rim of the round eye shapes

RIGARDS has collaborated with Uma Wang through multiple editions in a variety of materials which have included stainless steel, natural stone inserts, titanium, aluminium and wood. The two brands have developed a synergy in their spectacles collaboration which produces one-of-a-kind, natural eyewear designs with a consistently remarkable appearance, colour and finish. Find out more at www.rigards.com / www.umawang.comCopyright by kind permission of Rigards and Uma Wang

Anderson sunglasses by J.F. Rey

Men’s sunglasses in multi-materials

Part of a brand new sunglasses collection by the French creative team at J.F. Rey, the series of men’s designs in the edition propose multi-material constructions using acetate with carbon or glass fibre – revealed in layers. Above: model Anderson by J.F. Rey, one of the men’s styles in the new sunglasses collection that J.F. Rey has previewed for Spring/Summer 2024

The new Anderson sunglasses by J.F. Rey – the acetate appears to have been cut away on the upper section of the front to reveal the contrasting material below

This exclusive men’s series illustrates the unique qualities of J.F.REY’s design using the high-end materials with expertise and cutting-edge design techniques where layering and cutting away layers creates the architectural style. The combination of acetate with carbon or glass fibers lends a mix of special characteristics to the product, including strength and lightness as well as the aesthetic and focus on pattern and textural effects, with a likeness to the patterns of natural materials such as wood or horn. Find out more about the line at www.jfrey.fr

RES/REI: new for men

Eyestylist Exclusive: Part of the newly released RES/REI men’s eyewear collection which Eyestylist previewed at the SILMO fair, model Sir delivers a contemporary look where every detail has been developed with a creative yet subtly masculine touch

By Clodagh Norton Frames for men with striking masculine aesthetics and a “twist” of creativity in every small part: the new gentlemen’s eyewear collection at Italian label RES/REI plays with expertise and craftsmanship to achieve exciting details, colours and intriguing design traits. The frames in the collection are created with 5 barrel hinges mounted with rivets on a striped wire core and a blend of three-dimensional details, sophisticated colour combinations and refined classically informed shapes. Above: model wears the square-shaped Sir model – available in 5 unique colorways 

Model Sir by RES/REI: the new custom wire core is visible in the temples of the crystal grey version

With distinctive colours and newly developed Havanas and bi-layer Mazzucchelli acetate colours, the square model Sir is presented as a confident, well-proportioned acetate design. Eye-catching small details on the model include the three-dimensional ‘sculpted’ temple tips and silver lacquered typography (on the inside) inspired by the Art Deco movement and the traditions of the original 1920s speakeasies – for those who appreciate the finer things! Find out more about the independent eyewear collections by RES/REI at www.resrei.com

Eyestylist Exclusive – RES/REI: Floating Lines

Floating Lines in the Essences collection at RES/REI: an innovative artistic expression in acetate

Transparency and a sense of depth and dimension are the principal characteristics in the Essences range – shown in September for the first time at Silmo. The Italian artisan label, known for its small-batch production, custom Mazzucchelli materials and unique vision of quiet luxury, have crafted elegant crystal frames with colourful narrow lines decorating – with subtlety – the translucent acetate material. Above: model wears the new Juniper frame by RES/REI

Detail: model Juniper by RES/REI

The series includes the feminine cat’s eye shape, model Juniper. The narrow line – pictured in gradient bright turquoise to nearly white shades, outlines the upper section of the crystal frame front to create a beautiful surprise of colour detailing in the transparent design.

At the Paris fair, RES/REI released an array of new designs featuring sunset gradients (sunglasses collection), kaleidoscopic patterns (new acetate frames) and a new men’s eyewear collection inspired by motifs of the Art Deco Movement. For more information visit www.resrei.com

Leimann Leim XX

The Parisian eyewear brand’s timeless collection highlights the Leim XX, a subtle round acetate design suitable for men and women 

As black hues return for Autumn, the Leim XX from Leimann fits right into the new collections, classic, elegant and somewhat understated amid the colourful statements on trend elsewhere. Above: the unisex Leim XX worn by a female model. The frame is distinguished by a clean minimal structure – it is offered in black, smoked crystal and a luxurious tortoise coloration

Parisian style on the go: the Leim XX is an elegant timeless design from the Parisian brand

The sun lenses are made from a thermoplastic material that is recyclable and respectful of the environment, with anti-reflective and hydrophobic treatment offering 100% UVA/UVB protection. A subtle tint, they ensure that the gaze of the eyes can still be seen.

Leimann Eyewear is an emerging design eyewear label, based in Paris and created on a foundation of expertise within the optical sector, ensuring that every detail and technical feature is fused together with consideration for the needs of the wearer, their comfort and ultimate style. For more information about the brand visit www.leimann.fr