Reviews

Controvesy and conservatism are no strangers to leopard print. The trend started to be fashionable with Joan Crawford, the glamorous Hollywood movie star, and nowadays, actress Cate Blanchett and model Kate Moss are “spotted” in leopard prints. In Western culture, leopard prints are a symbol of power and wealth. They are a favourite from royalty to rock stars, and politicians. While politicians may not concur on many subjects, two UK politicians do agree on leopard print as a fashion statement. Theresa May, UK Prime Minister, is known for her fondness for leopard print shoes, while Labour MP Angela Rayner was photographed recently in a leopard print top. The magnificently sleek animal inspires designers of fashion, accessories, home decor, and eyewear.

Jono Hennessy’s latest collection includes a tribute to the species with a beautiful Mazzuchelli Italian acetate frame that replicates the leopard’s amazing spots. Like a leopard, JH 8376 is a bold and strong design – a contemporary shape, with a soft, sculptural flow, and a subtle retro hint on the temples. Jono Hennessy frames are crafted with spectacle making traditions that ensure beauty, fine fit, comfort and durability.

The Australian brand Jono Hennessy was founded in 1925 and remains a family business to this day. Based in Sydney, Jono Hennessy is passionate about his city and country. Frame inspiration is frequently derived from his surroundings in a city with innovative architecture, including the Sydney Opera House; and the Australian outback, with its diverse animals, plants, trees and colours. Plus there is the allure of sea, sun and surf – another strong influence for him. Eyewear is in Jono Hennessy’s DNA: as a child he watched his father when fitting custom-made frames for clients, and perform eye tests. Jono’s early experiences are now entrenched into third generation quality frame making. Discover more frame adventure – both optical and sunglass designs –  at www.jonohennessy.com JG

Non Stop City – a night edition 

Launched last month at the Paris fair SILMO, Non Stop City is a bold “night” sunglasses collection – and perhaps the ultimate “clubbing” accessory, by the young Barcelona start-up, Lool Eyewear.

Inspired by club culture, urban living and streetwear fashion, the futuristic frame designs are fitted with NSC SYSTEM photochromatic lenses. The glasses are able to adapt to changes of light, darkening during the day and lightening at night, while a luminescent ‘neon-like’ line profiles the lens.

Designed by Aris Rubio, these made-in-Barcelona “nocturnal” glasses are specially designed for style conscious “non stop urban dwellers”, clubbers and “night owls”, with the lightweight construction, comfort and slimline proportions of the brand’s mainline collection which is influenced by architectural concepts and retrofuturism.

Lool Eyewear launched their first steel eyewear collections at SILMO in 2016 and have received a warm reception from the design, fashion and eyewear worlds for their technical precision and commitment to innovative ideas and top-notch production. For Lool’s new projects, visit www.looleyewear.com. CN

Sculptured silhouettes, unique colourations, and beautiful Mazzucchelli acetate blend harmoniously in the latest Res/Rei designs. Oliviero Zanon appreciates the professional use and logic of fine acetate, and frequently researches Mazzucchelli vintage acetate. Incorporating contemporary styling, and often bespoke acetate made exclusively for Res/Rei, further enhances the designs. Streamlined with artisan Italian handcrafting, Erica suggests retro hints united with timeless form. Discover more Res/Rei designs – both optical and sunglasses – at www.resrei.com JG