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.
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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
26th March 2013 The Milan show a few weeks back showed us that there is a developing story in design inspirations…we saw the tantalising Bocca collection by Face à Face which has been extended into a Capsule line…born from designer Pascal Jaulent’s love for the form of the Dali “Mae West” Sofa, the lip fronts grew elegant legs, wearing elegant shoes; these range from high heel stilettos to the black varnish Richelieu shoes, a tribute to the Yves Saint Laurent smoking suit.
Pictured above, Bocca Rock 1 col. 005. www.faceaface-paris.com
Meanwhile, British label Cutler & Gross has immersed itself in the world of the surreal with a S/S collection that is showy and creative, with frames such as the slightly eccentric 1030s-esque 1081 with cutaway bridge that hints at the watches in Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dali. Something unique and eye-catching again that has been created with thought and pushes the boundaries. The frame is available in matt dark turtle/white layer (pictured) and a very interesting willow. www.cutlerandgross.com CN