We’ve raided the Archives of designers who are recognised for their vintage originality and retro spirit. Vintage designs always reveal dandies and delights, like Yang in metal and acetate, created by Barbara McReynolds and Gai Gherardi for l.a.eyeworks. Yang was introduced in 1988, however, the really great ones always feel immediately modern….and Yang is one of them. www.laeyeworks.com JG
From the Vintage archives at Kirk Originals, this frame was created in 1995, and the inspiration behind the design was the timeless chic of Princess Grace of Monaco. She wore glasses – both sunglasses and ophthalmic – and was frequently seen in photos wearing sunglasses. Grace, with its distinctive textured acetate and elegant cat eye shape remains a lovely tribute to a style icon. www.kirkoriginals.com JG
Launched at Milan Fashion Week, the much hyped Persol Reflex Edition is the latest special range from this well-known eyewear brand. The collection pays tribute to the world of photography. There are two sunglasses models and one optical frame, all inspired by vintage design analogue cameras, and reinterpreted using modern technology. The sunglasses feature Polar and Photo-Polar thin glass lenses and a list of design touches such as ultra light slim metal temples (rather than the traditional acetate you might expect) and Meflecto spring hinge system integrated as a decoration on the temples. I tried it in a store in central Milan this week to see if it worked for me, and I would have chosen the rounder shape and the lightest colour. If you are a Persol wearer and want a new look, then this is an update you might consider for Spring. From 210 euros. www.persol.com CN
We salute the season with an international line up of eyewear innovation. We are off to MIDO – the eyewear fair in Milan, and will highlight what’s new throughout the month.
Exciting frames from ten different countries are featured in Reviews, and voyage with us to China to find a stunning boutique, then to Italy for our Designer of the Month.
City Guides previews a long anticipated exhibition on a cultural icon that is opening in London. Click and stay with Eyestylist for what’s happening in eyewear fashion.
This site is legally privileged, controlled and operated by Eyestylist.com. Materials on this website may not be communicated in any way whatsoever, without the prior written authorization of Eyestylist.com.
29th March 2013 In our recent travels, we have spotted several round shapes that quickly became favourites. There are adventurous round versions, and lovely classic interpretations as well. Interior designer and eyewear creator Veronika Wildgruber features frames with the lenses set into intersections (above Magnolia). The result is a very light design with chic and technical triumph. www.veronikawildgruber
The simplicity of Sven Götti’s Aubert (above) is very appealing with its elegant round shape, highlighted with a delicately curved nosepiece, and beautifully crafted in titanium. The frame is as light as a feather, and extremely comfortable to wear. www.gotti.ch
Tortoiseshell and round shapes are natural partners, and ClassicS by Coppe+Sid is a new collection with smart designs in smooth acetate. I saw this collection in Milan, and like the retro spirit with its modern character in quality acetate. www.coppeandsid.com JG