Eyestylist

Filip by Zac Posen

19th May 2016

A favourite retro ‘clubmaster’ shape, in new modern acetate colours paired with classical lens tones such as this retro bottle green. Filip is part of a collection that evokes the true essence of the American designer brand Zac Posen, timelessly stylish and glamorous with a modern sensibility and edge. The eyewear reflects the craftsmanship of handmade frames with a forward design aesthetic featuring custom acetates with rich golds tortoises, and hints of colour throughout. A collection to explore, at www.kenmarkoptical.com / www.zacposen.com CN

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Design + Inspiration

Blake Kuwahara x l.a.Eyeworks

17th May 2016

Eyewear artisan creators Barbara McReynolds and Gai Gherardi at l.a. Eyeworks, and Blake Kuwahara have created a dynamic capsule collection. The Los Angeles based trio have designed a Limited Edition of eight frames that combine luxury, beautiful design, imaginative shapes, and vibrant colours. “We set out to distil and combine the essence of both of our brands as an adventure in optical alchemy,” says Gheradi.

Optical Alchemy: Two Noons and Two Rays by Blake Kuwahara x l.a.Eyeworks

Handcrafted in Japan, the expressive ophthalmic frames are called “Two Noons” and Two Rays.” Kuwahara noted: “We wanted the frames to exhibit harmony and tension between opposing shapes and ideas, blending the newness of my ‘frame within a frame’ construction techniques, and the history of l.a. Eyeworks’ timeless shapes and colours.”

Distinctive colourations and shapes: Two Noons and Two Rays

Blake Kuwahara x l.a. Eyeworks are iconic, inspired ophthalmic designs. www.laeyeworks.com www.blakekuwahara.com JG

Arts + travel

Sale of antique eyewear collection, London

16th May 2016

An antique eyewear collection which includes 62 spectacles from Europe and China through the centuries will go on sale at the London International Antiquarian Book Fair at Olympia later this month. The earliest example in the historic collection is from circa 1790, whilst the latest spectacles included date from the 1940s. A few items described as “very rare examples”, include opticians’ diagnostic and measuring tools. The collection will be available to view on the Voyager Press stand at Olympia from the 26th to 28th May 2016 and carries a price tag of £4,950.

Described as an unique opportunity to purchase a ready made collection of eyewear of the highest standard, it illustrates the history of spectacles from the late 1700s, through the 1800s and up to the mid-1900s. The collection covers the making of optical lenses and frames and the shifts in trends and mindsets towards eyewear over the centuries.

Highlights include some of the earliest tinted glasses and fold up spectacles, glasses which attached to the ear by a string, 10 pince-nez and a very rare pair of early 19th century surgeon’s magnifying glasses with large square lenses. For more information: www.voyager-press.com CN

Design + Inspiration

Sunglasses: Eye-catching classics

12th May 2016

Behind with an upgrade for summer? Our eye is on the classic sunglasses with a twist where overtones of iconic designs mix with modern details and luxury materials.

From Australia, AM Eyewear proposes instant beach style. The round statement model Chico has a double bridge, a quintessentially flattering round eye shape and milkwhite (pictured) acetate temples. Custom materials including Japanese titanium, leather and handmade acetate are a feature of their Salt on Skin 2016 Spring/Summer line. www.ameyewear.com

French label Vue DC unites French expertise in artisan production with creative excellence. Model Neo offers effortless elegance with a polished refinement that eyewear aficionados will appreciate. The honey shade is soft on pale complexions and very pretty with the subtle green vintage-feel lens. www.vuedc.com

Shapes are diverse this season – for men and women. Norwegian brand Karmoie has released the fine unisex silhouette – model Star – where the balance of old-school charm, a modern colour palette and a pale lens tint brings an up-to-the-minute finish to the design. Karmoie is a buy one give one company: they donate a pair of eyejusters for every pair of sunglasses sold. www.karmoie.com

For those who are passionate about a classical shape, Super Man 1 by Woow is a lovely modified option – fantastic colour ways give a fresh dynamic style that is attractive and easy to wear. www.wooweyewear.com CN

Reviews

Ellis by Claire Goldsmith

9th May 2016

Refined and beautifully crafted, Claire Goldsmith’s optical collection mirrors the heart of the brand. Elegant shaping in quality materials and desirable colours ensure the frames have a distinctive pedigree. The latest release – Ellis – draws on contemporary lines in a luscious acetate colour duo of Seabed Green and Tortoiseshell. More on the latest optical news from CG at www.clairegoldsmith.com JG

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Filip by Zac Posen

Blake Kuwahara x l.a.Eyeworks

Sale of antique eyewear collection, London

Sunglasses: Eye-catching classics

Ellis by Claire Goldsmith