Reviews

Combining historical charm with a twist of new ‘pink’, model Audrey (above) by Oliver Goldsmith is the ultimate summer accessory. Crafted in an acetate material of the highest order the frame’s bold oval eye shape and thick rim are combined with the subtlest of lens tints with the ultimate UV protection (by Zeiss).

Originally, model Audrey (1963) was named after and designed for Hollywood superstar, Audrey Hepburn; Oliver Goldsmith designed frames for many of her movies such as ‘Charade’ and ‘How to Steal a Million’. For OG, Audrey is one of the pioneering “trendsetting” frames which helped spread the popularity of the statement oval sunglass shape,  a classic look with everlasting appeal.

The two beautiful new summer colourways  – Black Tortoiseshell and Pink Tortoiseshell (pictured above), have been released for some of the most popular styles in the collection, which also include The Manhattan and Sophia styles. For more details and for the online shop visit www.olivergoldsmith.com CN

History plays a role in the latest designs in Collection 1880 by Morel. The concept is a reference to the year that the French label was launched – 1880. Designs for men and women reflect Morel’s continuing passion for beautiful eyewear. Homère 4 (above on the male model)  is crafted with the frame front in HD acetate highlighting vintage contours, and metal sides. All Morel frames are artfully fabricated in the Jura region of France. The Homère 4 will be available in September. Women’s designs in Collection 1880 include Concept Tydée 6 – refined, sleek, and streamlined with a nod to the 1960’s. A lovely colour palette includes tints of anthracite and cognac; or crystalline tones of rose and white; plus shiny or matte black. Timeless designs, stylish colours, advanced materials and technology combine harmoniously in Morel’s sophisticated Collection 1880. Visit www.morel-france.com for more details. JG

Vinylize, the artisan label specialising in eyewear made from upcycled vinyl records, is offering a unique opportunity to make bespoke frames from your chosen LP. The finished models which are made to order are presented in custom designed coffers. The design above, recently shipped to Norway, was made from the client’s own album, Tungtvann. The shape of the classic Vinylize Brubeck model was customized for an ideal fit for the owner with an eye size enlarged from 55mm to 58mm.  Progressive lenses were fitted into the vintage blue havana acetate lining the vinyl front by the company lab. Vinylize frames are chic, artisan products perfectly in tune with our growing ecological preoccupations. The collection is unique in that it is the only high-quality range to focus on vinyl products and has seen extraordinary success in Europe and further afield. For more information on the bespoke service visit www.vinylize.com CN

Children’s sensitive, vulnerable eyes require special protection in particular with summer sunshine. Lafont Paris features stylish and protective sunglasses for the young set with quality UV lenses in uncluttered shapes and festive, fun colours with plenty of kid cool.  Equinoxe in vivid red sports decoratively printed sides. Fit, comfort and durability is indicative of – and complements all – of the Lafont children’s designs. Visit www.lafont.com and explore the variety of styles, shape and colour options in optical and sunglass designs. JG

NYC events, new stockists in Miami and a special tour of Jamaica. Just a few of the things that optician/designer Alicia Hartman has been busy with since we last caught up with her in April. And with that has come some glamorous new eyewear styles, as well as plenty of colourful sunnies.

We first met Alicia in 2018 (and before that we had been in touch via social media for some years). Now she is one of the most successful opticians to launch her own collection, which includes models suited to sun or ophthalmic lenses. The new model PFB 13 (above in red/tortoise effect), pictured on a girl at eyeQ Jamaica, offers a combination of glamorous elegance with the rich effect of the high-end acetate; it has a particularly individual look when glazed with optical lenses.

Unique screwless flat stainless-steel hinges and beveling techniques, along with signature end tips matching the fronts have the effect of deliberately complementing the matte finishes of these designs – a detail achieved by special lamination techniques and Japanese polishing – no corners are cut in this very chic detailing. The frames can be glazed as opticals or fitted with a subtle gradient mirror and flash lens, just right for beach wear and summer parties.

The brand is now available in some unique stores including Selima Optique (NYC) and Eye Q Optical  (Manor Park, Kingston, Jamaica). For more information about Peoples from Barbardos go to www.peoplesfrombarbados.com and visit Alicia’s store Eye Q at Limegrove Lifestyle Centre Holetown, Barbados. CN