Two

MET 02

Histoire de Voir

The touch and feel of smooth, sensuous calfskin, expertly tooled, possesses an elegant look for distinctive eyewear. The latest collection from Historie de Voir is particularly outstanding.This style with its dramatic shape, is totally handcrafted from fine quality calf skins, with the rim and temple in inox. One of the lovely aspects of leather is that with continued wear, it becomes even more beautiful. Available in ten gorgeous colours, including Red Pony, shown above. Historie de Voir is sold at Eyes Pleasure, 40 rue Saint Suplice, Paris 75005, and at Optic Gallery, Galerie Louise 18, 1050 Brussels. Further details at www.histoire-de-voir.com JG

Vesoul

Dita

Model Vesoul by US brand Dita comes in this incredible colour called “blue swirl crystal” with dark grey gradient lenses. It’s got the hue of the Mediterranean and fits beautifully with our blue theme of the Summer which seems to continue into the Autumn collections. Handcrafted in Japan, the model is typical of Dita’s sunglass styles, which combine an equal helping of style and quality construction. This is a trendy shape this season and one I recommend strongly to those of you wanting a fashion look for 2011/12, in optical or sunwear. Available direct from www.dita.com and also at the Eye Company in Wardour Street, London (www.eye-company.co.uk) retailing at £290. CN

Jones

Tipton Eyewear Hungary

This is a collection that I haven’t seen yet, but I find very intriguing. Respecting the environment is the philosophy behind Tipton Eyewear. Designer Zack Tipton’s handmade frames are created from salvaged acetate and records.  The frame featured above is from the Vinylize range, and merges both vintage and modern ingredients that result in a stylish, unique look.  The grooves on the frame front are instant distinction. The Budapest based designer also produces a cinematique collection that is created from salvaged acetate, stainless steel and vintage film. The collection is currently distributed in France, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary and America. With such an unusual approach to eyewear, it won’t be long before Tipton Eyewear is available in other countries. www.tipton.hu JG

Bubbly

Thierry Lasry

Some of you may have noticed that I am a bit of a fan of this label. There is something a bit cheeky about the model Bubbly. Whilst this wonderful vintage-look bug shape would not suit me personally I do think is a great look if you can get away with it. Teamed with this on-trend transparent shocking pink, it’s even better! If you don’t know about Thierry Lasry and you like statement luxury, take a look at www.thierrylasry.com. His clever take on vintage is fun and very creative. Quality of course is paramount and you can always guarantee you are getting the very best acetate, produced by leading Italian producers Mazzucchelli. The brand is available at Liberty (London), and some fine boutiques across the world including Storm in Copenhagen and Galeries Lafayette, Berlin.   CN

02 Isolde 1300

Ralph Vaessen

Unusual materials to be found in eyewear include the unexpected use of snakeskin, favoured by Dutch designer Ralph Vaessen.  I spotted these sunglasses at jlc opticien on chic and fashionable Rue de Bac in Paris, and liked the oversized shape, strong brow and linear movement. The fit is superb too.  Vaessen’s entry into eyewear came about as a fluke – he couldn’t find frames that he really liked, and an optician suggested that Vaessen design his own frames.  The optician knew a small atelier that could make them. Already passionate about music, art, fashion and architecture, Vaessen has found his true metier in creating luxurious, unique eyewear, and was nominated for a Silmo D’Or in 2010. More details at www.ralphvaessen.com and www. jlcopticien.com JG