Carola Nomden is an eyewear designer with a wealth of experience in the optical field, previously working at SAFILO and Prada. She is known for her creative expertise and modern, cosmopolitan aesthetic, particularly in sunglasses. Carola has joined Ørgreen as the Danish company brings together a creative team to rival many of Europe’s finest. Eyestylist asked her to share her perspective on her work and creative passion.
How and where did you train to become a designer? How did you get into eyewear? Can you tell us in a few lines about yourself? My journey as a designer began at the IED in Turin, where I studied jewelry and accessory design, diving into a world of precious materials, craftsmanship, and innovation. I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of creating objects that not only adorn but also tell a story and reflect the personality of those who wear them. This philosophy naturally led me to eyewear, a field I see as the perfect bridge between functionality and pure creative expression. For me, every project is a journey through details, shapes, and symbols, with the goal of transforming the everyday into something extraordinary.
What have been the high points of your career so far? One of the most significant moments in my career was having the opportunity to closely observe the work of great creative minds, an experience that deeply inspired and enriched me. It taught me the value of bold and refined thinking, which I strive to bring into my work every day. Above: eyewear designer, Carola Nomden
What do you feel are the most interesting processes as regards designing frames, and do you have a particular style or influence that is typical of your work? For me, the design process is a true form of alchemy. The beauty of design lies in seeing something that was initially just an idea take shape and come to life. I love exploring the endless possibilities of materials, like a craftsman who molds forms and colours, bringing new universes to life. Each project is a moment of discovery, where the idea transforms and takes root in reality. Working with volumes allows me to define essential lines, but my true goal is to give each creation a sense of modernity, while never losing sight of the elegance and purity that make it distinctive.
As part of the Ørgreen team, what are your favourite new challenges? One of the most exciting aspects of being part of Ørgreen is the diversity of backgrounds within the team. Each of us brings a unique perspective, shaped not only by our countries of origin but also by our individual professional experiences. This diversity is a tremendous strength, as it allows us to tackle design challenges from different angles and develop creative solutions that we might not have considered otherwise. It’s this exchange of ideas that makes working with Ørgreen so inspiring.
When you are not working, what do you like to do and what interests you in the creative field? When I’m not working, I like to immerse myself in what stimulates my creativity: reading books, exploring illustrations, graphics, cinematography, and art. Every form of visual and narrative expression helps me see the world from different angles, enriching my creative language. I am also fascinated by the human being, by their expressions and the small everyday details, which often become inspirations for my design, making it closer and more in tune with people.
Do you take interest in the evolution of eyewear, new materials and sustainable trends, and if so what do you imagine will be a particularly significant direction for the business in the next 5 to 10 years? The eyewear industry is in constant transformation, and I am fascinated by how technology and sustainability are intertwining to create increasingly innovative solutions. In the next 5-10 years, I envision a significant evolution in the use of biodegradable and recycled materials, with a growing focus on lightness and durability, without ever compromising design. I also believe that, alongside this, consumer awareness will change, driving them to seek brands that prioritize the health of the planet.
What is on your mood board this week? My mood board for 2025 explores the meeting between craftsmanship and technology, a return to the roots of human experience fused with the discoveries of the future. Natural, earthy tones are enlivened with vibrant accents, while volumes intertwine in elegant and bold shapes, creating the perfect balance between tradition and innovation.
Finally, could you add any other points of interest about your work as a designer? When I design, I am deeply influenced by the intersection of culture, nature, and personal expression. To me, eyewear is not just a functional accessory, but a way to tell stories and celebrate individuality. My creative approach is rooted in my hometown, Turin, a city where every corner tells a story and where architecture and art continuously engage in a dialogue between the past and the future. Now that I live in Copenhagen, I find myself in a new creative phase, one that is shaping my work in unexpected ways, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas into my designs.
Find out more about design at Ørgreen Optics at www.orgreenoptics.com
