Reviews

The US label has added titanium into the mix, in new ophthalmic models Castle Point and Lakeside

A cool mix of bio acetate for fronts and slim titanium for temples, the two new optical  styles from Erkers1879 this Spring aim for lightness and comfort, with a secure, well balanced fit.

Both eyeglass models come in four colours true to the traditional subdued-modern palette of the brand. As is typical of the brand, attention to detail is interesting and eye-catching, with the year of their inception lightly etched on the left temple tip of each frame, in addition to the letter “V” on the right to signify the Roman Numeral V collection. Honouring their rich history in St. Louis, both models are named after areas throughout the city. Above: Model Lakeshire has a traditional rectangular shape. The masculine frame comes in two classic colours, Crystal and Brown Fade, as well as two brand new blends, Graphite and Shiny Fern. 

Model Castle Point, the round shape with soft edges, makes for a sleek but sturdy design. The lightweight feel paired with a saddle bridge ensure ultimate comfort when wearing this frame. The classic colours of Navy, Smoke, Purple Fade, and Tort, balance the modern titanium temples for a timeless look that is on point for Spring. Find out more at www.erkers1879.com

Blackfin Pacific develops a precise concept of elegance, based on classic shapes

Classic shapes and technical, minimal, lightweight design come together in a new series of ophthalmic models from Italian label Blackfin. The frames are produced in 3mm block titanium for strength and durability, and undergo a chamfering technique to create a particular refinement and slight softness in the lines and edges. The frames also benefit from minimal welds, used exclusively to mount the nose pad arms, and crafted from a flexible and adaptable material, to offer a good fit for all. Patented Swordfish temple tips can be easily adjusted to further perfect the fit. Above: Blackfin Pacific – model Big Sur, created from 3mm block titanium

The model Big Sur is typical of the line, and offers an elegant panto shape, with pure timeless lines in understated colorations – produced with subtle polished or matt finishes to retain a completely luxurious effect. Find out more at www.blackfin.eu

A close look at a bold frame from the Spring/Summer release

Parisian landmarks. Historic buildings. Favourite arrondissements. The new frames in the Spring/Summer collection by Ahlem Eyewear are linked to Parisian life and culture through names of importance, familiarity and striking historic significance, conjured up by memories in the French city where Ahlem Manai-Platt grew up. Typically, the frames in this line are the result of careful study and inspiration, in this case drawing on two subcultures, the original jazz era of the 1950s and 60s, and La Sape, the postcolonial African legacy of self-determination through natty dress.

Among the extensive choice of models, Pont Mirabeau offers a bold and generously proportioned frame style – as an ophthalmic frame it comes in two new shades of petrol light and brown light – both in sync with a sophisticated timeless mood that is permeating through ready-to-wear and accessory trends – and offering special nuances of design at a time when newness and Spring desires are definitely in the air.

The frame is available in two other shades called dark light (nearly black but with a degree of transparency to lift it) and dry pampas – a lovely greyish taupe with a crystal finish. All the styles – sun and optical – at Ahlem are made exclusively in France (and sometimes in Japan, depending on the materials and subtleties of craftsmanship required), according to time-honored tradition; they have an obvious hand finished elegance and charisma only possible via artisan craft. Top image: Photography by Andrea Spotorno for the new campaign at Ahlem Eyewear. Find out more by visiting the website, www.ahlemeyewear.com