Eyestylist

Richard Nahem: Parisian “eye” for art & attitude

11th March 2019

Dreams do come true. Always keeping an “eye” open for opportunities, Richard Nahem, New York City former chef; caterer; events planner; producer and actor; realised a lifelong dream when he moved to Paris, where he proceeded to fulfil his inherent passion to be a photographer.

Parisian café waiters photographed by Richard Nahem

Roaming Parisian “rues” armed with enthusiasm and cameras, Nahem seeks and searches for the unexpected and unpredictable – whether landmark monuments; elegant Parisian doorways; the beauty of parks; and the marvellous play of light in Paris. “I strive to capture places and objects in a unique way that hasn’t been seen before,” says the Parisian aficionado. Nahem’s latest photos reveal the many sudden and remarkable moods of the city.

Unique variety of Parisian doors captured by Richard Nahem

Nahem has established not only a stunning photography portfolio, but also a site – www.eyepreferparis.com – to ensure that Parisian visitors, residents and those who appreciate and celebrate Nahem’s dream, are able to keep abreast of current and culturally exciting events taking place in the City of Light.

LOFT Santa Monica Show October 16th and 17th

SILMO Paris - The Optical Fair. 25th - 28th September 2026

MIDO 6-8 February 2027. Welcome to Eyewearland

Christmas trees at Place Vendome by Richard Nahem

For a new, fresh perspective on Paris, enjoy Richard Nahem photos currently on display at the chic Hôtel Pont Royal until 31st March www.hotel-pont-royal.com JG

Boutiques

Stoffels Optik, Zürich

11th March 2019

Michael Stoffels has transformed part of the historic Zunfthaus zur Meisen in the Lindenhof Quarter, Zürich, into a state-of-the-art designer optical boutique.

Michael Stoffels opened his eponymous store in November 2018, replacing the well-known store on Storchengasse which had been run by the family in this location since 1983. The new prestigious boutique is located in the Zunfthaus zur Meisen, an historic 18th century building celebrated for its Grand Guild Hall and its exceptional central position overlooking the river Limmat. The interior of the shop merges contemporary and traditional features with striking colours and an artistic style with elegant, one-off pieces of furniture and art works.

Striking colours at Stoffels – inspired by Marrakech

Stoffels, who created the interior design for the store with Jaqueline van Maren, architect and interior designer, said the aim was to open a hip optical store in the very traditional historic setting, with a unique experience compared to other stores and an open and appealing outlook for young people. “We wanted to attract attention in a well-known location,” he added, “where thousands of people walk by every day. The brilliant colours are inspired by Yves Saint Laurent and his love for Marrakech, and the vibrant “Blumlihalle” (hall of little flowers) in Zurich, painted by Augusto Giacometti, nephew of the famous Swiss sculptor.” The exotic interior and its elegant furnishings create a setting that is more like a luxury living room than an optical retail space.

Close-up at Stoffels: elegant displays of fine eyewear

The shop has opened with a selection of handpicked niche collections which include Eyevan, Lucas de Stael, Retro Specs, Moscot, Carin and ‘Stoffels Own’ collection which is handmade in Switzerland.

Other outstanding features of the interior decoration include an impressive wall painting created with a bespoke wallpaper, designed especially for the wall and the colour scheme of the shop, by Jakob Schlaepfer from St. Gallen. Stoffels explains: “Jakob Schlaepfer is one of the most famous producers of haute couture textiles. The wallpaper is covered with a hologram foil, which is illuminated at night and gives a beautiful glittering effect visible from outside to passers-by.”

Munsterhof 20, Wuhre, CH – 8001 Zurich

For further details visit www.storchenoptik.ch CN

Creative spirits

Anna-Karin Karlsson: Dynamic jewellery

8th March 2019

Multi-talented and visionary Swedish eyewear designer Anna-Karin Karlsson (above photo) now brings her prodigious abilities, stunning motivation for beauty, and luxury perspectives to statement jewellery. “As a child, I was obsessed by accessories. Sunglasses are an instant glamour addition, and they always fascinated me. I tried to find jewellery with enough attitude and complexity for me to be fascinated, but decided to start designing my own jewellery, and create designs for fearless Romantics.”

The Rose Necklace for Spring by Anna-Karin Karlsson

Karlsson’s signature jewellery collection is cohesive with the DNA of the eyewear designs: extravagance, originality, and glamour juxtaposed with strong, decisive and impressive elements.

The Magpie Necklace studded with Swarovski Crystals

Necklaces, earrings and bracelets feature exclusive materials, often decorated with Swarovski Crystals in vibrant colours. Dramatic long chains – very on-trend – are plated in 24K gold and white gold.

The handcrafted, lavish designs created with exceptional components are characterised by luxury, and an indulgence in artistic pleasure. The Haute Couture jewellery collection is currently in selected stores in France, Russia, and Portugal, and will soon be available online at www.annakarinkarlsson.com JG

Reviews

Wilson by JF Rey 1985

6th March 2019

Retro re-interpreted with modern trends brings stylistic freshness to six frames from JF Rey that achieved iconic status during the 1980’s. For the revisit, the Marseille based company is inspired by the Scottish Highlands, with a unique mix of materials, colours and contrasts. Country tweeds, Houndstooth patterns, and Prince of Wales checks (first popularised by The Prince of Wales, later Edward VIII), are artfully worked into acetate frames contemporary and sophisticated. Featured above is Wilson – smart checks with an on-trend double-bridge. Additional discoveries from JF Rey 1985 at www.frey.fr JG

Design + Inspiration

K&K expressive video: Centennial celebration

4th March 2019

Achieving a centennial goal is an extraordinary accomplishment, and family-owned British brand Kirk & Kirk are now joyously celebrating – and commemorating – this iconic milestone. Jason Kirk grew up in the family business, and now he and his wife Karen are poised to continue the family tradition of exceptional creativity in style; superlative materials; exclusive colourations; and encompassing a multi-sensory approach to eyewear. (Top image: Esme in Jade from the K&K Centena Collection

Cecil in Iris from The Centena Collection by Kirk & Kirk

To herald the occasion, Kirk & Kirk have released a lovely video that spotlights the Centena Collection – innovative eyewear crafted from superbly lightweight 10mm acrylic, with streamlined styling, and stunning colourations.

KIRK AND KIRK from EYESTYLIST on Vimeo.

In the video, the male model wears Bert in Corn Yellow, and Dennis in Royal Blue. The female model features Esme in Corn Yellow, and Dena in Tiger Orange. The energetic colours with luminous clarity enhance the smooth, sleek frame silhouettes. Visit www.kirkandkirk.com for more captivating styles. JG

Diffuser Tokyo: fine leather eyewear cases with SOMÉS Saddle

Eyewear innovation in 2026

Eyewear trends: The language of reduction

Fine art as fashion: a-morir announces new crystal capsule, “Handle With Care”

Johanna Skans: “Sustainability is a mindset”

l.a.Eyeworks’ Limited Edition for Art Matters’ Gai Gherardi Fellowship