Reviews

Kengo Kuma x VAVA Eyewear: 3D printed

VAVA CL0015 “woven” 3D printed sunglasses design – nomination in SILMO D’Or 2021 awards

The astounding architectural imaginings of Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and the process of weaving explored within the acclaimed architect’s work form the basis for the almond-shaped Cloo15 sunglasses design at VAVA, one of the nominations in the recently announced European optical industry’s 28th SILMO D’Or shortlist in the design category ‘Sunglasses – Eyewear Designer’. The SILMO D’Or prizes will be announced at the Paris “live” event on 25th September 2021, before an international audience.  Above: model CL0015 Kengo Kuma x VAVA – a round eye shape, the 3D printed frame is created using polyamide bio-based powder made from castor oil

VAVA CL0015 in bold red

Beyond the eloquent structure, the design is also equipped with advanced base zero glass round-shaped lenses by Barberini and patented hinges in VAVA’s signature Avional aluminium.  VAVA’s collaboration collection with Kengo Kuma is the latest innovative series in a line of studied and inspired collections that put structure and architectural aesthetics at the forefront of eyewear development and sustainably produced frame design. Find out more at www.vavaeyewear.com

Vada Eyes Kauboi

A timeless frame that catches the mood of the moment with its beautiful colorations and pearlised finish

Classic cellulose acetate construction and a pearlised texture with a real sense of style: model Kauboi from the Vada collection  is one of those frames that we would always refer to as a wardrobe staple, classic enough to have real lasting appeal with brilliant artistic colours that are interesting and chic. Above: Vada Trick Pony campaign, shot by Kaiman Kazazian and featuring model Mia Rae

Our end of summer choice – ideal styling to move into Autumn – Vada’s Kauboi in pearl snap: a chunky square frame the brand calls their “future classic”

Inspired by nudie suits from country music counterculture, – through the adages “Bigger in Texas”  and “Big in Japan”, the style is available in limited runs and a series of exotic colourways with colored lenses that range from soft green through to bright orange, blue or blue light (clear). The frame colour we fell in love with was the gorgeous ‘pearl snap’ which fits with the boom in patterned and marble like examples coming out for the season. Other colours available include burlwood and emerald green.

Vada Kauboi – in emerald green – the frames feature gold plated hardware

Vada Eyes is a producer of small batch eyewear and all the products are designed in Austin and handmade in Japan. Their love for artisanal techniques and a style that fits with current fashion moods is thoughtful and imaginative and an expression of individual flair and passion for design that will endure and hold its own. Find out more: https://vadajewelry.com

Si Señor! Oliver Goldsmith sunglasses

An Oliver Goldsmith heirloom classic: the Señor sunnies

For men and women, an absolute classic will always win as the best combination for self-assured style and sun protection – in an instant! The special opportunity of wearing an iconic pair of sunnies, chic yet without overstatement is both a way out of any struggles on decision-making – the right shape will compliment pretty much every face – and an effortless move towards impeccable elegance and distinctive, timeless charm.

Señor sunglasses by Oliver Goldsmith: an heirloom design first created in the 1960s

At Oliver Goldsmith, the Señor sunglasses are a reedition first designed – remarkably – in 1964. They offer a classic square eye shape and a very appealing cotton acetate structure, with the finesse of the handmade rivet details on the frame front – an artisan touch that’s a feature of some of the most famous shapes at the brand. Colourways are available for men and women – the very delicate pink tinted crystal is summery for women while the classic tones of matte dark tortoise or matte wakame will see you though to other seasons – with their complimentary autumnal hues and interesting hand finished surface. The added bonus of being able to have your OG sunglasses personalised with initials at a small extra fee is a nice touch, especially if you’re eyeing these up as a gift for a loved one. Find out more about the sunglasses styles at https://www.olivergoldsmith.com/product/senor/

Acetate eyewear: 15 Below at Ogi Eyewear

The quintessential acetate cat’s eye: expression in elegant materials

These days in the acetate collections, no ordinary pattern will do. For lines that specialise in acetate, the colorations, and mix of solid and transparent detail are imaginative and artistic, offering a delightfully flattering design work to wear and importantly – enjoy! In this vein, model 15 Below – one of around 15 new styles in the OGI Eyewear line this season, embraces rich and colourful effects in a context where bright and bold encapsulates the mood.

Ogi’s 15 Below – an iconic cat’s eye shape

A sculpted brow corner and special end piece design combine with the fresh, vivid colour in the styles which are described as ‘tortoise’ and often seem almost ‘marbelised’. The front is combined with a solid temple colour to ensure that the attention remains on the front.

15 Below by Ogi Eyewear: the frame comes in individual colorations of Tokyo, Rose, Ruby or Sapphire Crunch

Ogi Eyewear uses fine block Mazzucchelli acetates and the collection is based on different iconic shapes, which show up each season in new shapes and forms. This particular patterned acetate has a foundation that is based on the classic tortoise pattern infused with pops of colour and translucent details that create a modern, light and fun take on the classic styles of tortoise. Find more acetate designs and metal/acetate combinations in this collection by visiting www.ogieyewear.com

Aviator trend – a style for now

Paradigm’s 21-03 – a narrow aviator frame with a trendy polished shine

The aviator is set for success in Autumn 21, and while in sunwear the shapes are angular and large, for glasses the style can be smaller in proportions and softer in shape. Both titanium and stainless steel are popular for this type of style with modern finishes that are noticeably chic. The frame has become well liked as a genderless design that comes highly recommended for those will an oblong shaped face. Above: Our featured model is Paradigm optical style 21-03: this model is a fitted aviator shape with a classic silhouette. With its shiny stainless steel surfaces, and subtle details which also include colour enameling, the frame is typical of the trendy aviator looks that will continue to be popular across age groups. The style comes in forest and gold (pictured) with the colour enameling on the sides

Paradigm 21-03  – by Kenmark Eyewear

Paradigm is produced by Kenmark Eyewear. Thee latest glasses collection from the brand was inspired by the desert and exudes a mood of freshness and modernity with dual toned stainless steel frames,  colorful acetate and metal combination styles and classic rectangular and cat eye shapes as well as aviator shapes that are fresh and playful in colorings and details. Find out more about these styles at www.kenmarkeyewear.com/paradigm