Eyestylist

| Eyestylist 18th February 2013

Fortuny: An Artistic Legacy

Unique Fashion Perspective at Queen Sofia Spanish Institute – New York City

18th February 2013 The artistic legacy of Mariano Fortuny y Madrazo (1871-1949) is currently being celebrated with the recent publication of Fortuny Interiors (Eyestylist City Guides 22nd January 2013), and an exquisite retrospective at the Queen Sofia Spanish Institute on Park Avenue in Manhatten. Conceived by and curated with Oscar de la Renta, this is the first exhibition to examine the impact of both the matrilineal and paternal artistic legacies on Fortuny’s groundbreaking work in textiles, clothing design and visual arts. Born in Granada and raised in Paris, Fortuny spent his adult life in Venice, where his prodigious output was the result of a career that spanned over fifty years. It was through his clothing and textile designs that his exceptional artistic sensibilities reached their zenith, as well as a large international audience.

 

Luxurious pleats and drape by Fortuny
Luxurious pleats and drape by Fortuny

Many of his clothing designs, including the iconic Delphos dress (top photo) emphasized movement and the natural shape of an un-corseted body – just one of the ways that Fortuny’s clothing, although steeped in history, revealed a modern sensibility that helped to push fashion forward at the turn of the 20th Century. This stunning exhibition confirms the beauty and timelessness of fine design. Exhibition continues through 30 March 2013. www.queensofiaspanishinstitute.org JG

Photos Top: Mrs. William Wetmore modeling a Delphos gown in front of Fortuny fabric. Originally published in Vogue 15 December 1935. Photograph by Lusha Nelson Copyright Condé Nast Publications

Centre: Design by Mariano Fortuny y Madrazo, Peplos, 1910-1920 Coutresy of the Museo del Traje, Madrid

| Eyestylist 15th February 2013

Moscot Metals

New Styles Steeped in History

15th February 2013 The iconic New York label Moscot has just released a spirited metal collection that dives into the family history, and emerges with designs that are compelling, bold and style savvy. The Kleyn (above) is inspired by the American 1860’s post-Civil war era spectacles. Crafted in metal with stainless steel temples and filigree details, the frames feature a classic saddle bridge and no nose pads.

 

The Mazel from Moscot's spirited new metal collection
The Mazel from Moscot’s spirited new metal collection

The Mazel (above) is a distinctive drill mount semi-rimless design with authentic filigree accents. The unique lens shape, bridge cut outs, and metal and stainless steel components are stunning. Moscot eyewear is all handcrafted, and the frames are available as ophthalmic eyewear or sunglasses. www.moscot.com JG

 

| Eyestylist 14th February 2013

A Creative Wink To Love….

One of a Kind Valentine by Face à Face Paris

14th February 2013 Bocca is a totally handmade heart frame tribute to the talented craftsmen who work in the Face à Face workshops. This unique piece is fun and innovative, created with passion by the people who ensure the excellence in each Face à Face frame. Eyestylist joins Face à Face in wishing everyone love and peace! www.faceaface-paris.com JG

| Eyestylist 12th February 2013

Men’s Eyewear – The Designer Approach

Pascal Jaulent – Face à Face Paris

12th February 2013 We continue with our series “Men’s Eyewear –  The Designer Approach” and Eyestylist meets Pascal Jaulent of Face à Face Paris.

Do you have a particular male model in mind when you design men’s eyewear? “Design meets the personality of the wearer. The men I am designing for will express energy, contemporary elegance, an assertive character in a well-balanced temper. No ‘chichi’ nor useless details; graphic lines will shape a strong look and bold volumes impose a natural confidence. More personally, my ideal male model would be the character of James Bond – Pierce Brosnan being my favourite actor.”

Dintinctive eyewear for men from Face à Face
Distinctive eyewear for men from Face à Face

What is your philosopy on colour, material and eyewear shapes for men? “Beside the basic tones of men’s colour universe (black, grey and all metal nuances, classic brown, ink or navy blue, and a little bit of green), colours add the sporty/energy touch that is part of most men’s personality. These flashes of lightning can be neon orange, green, blue, strong red or bold yellow. I do not like pastel tones nor gold on men. The material dimension, as well as the technical concept are quite important to men: natural materials such as horn, and wood bear the luxury dimension in men’s frames. Both acetate and metal perfectly fit male expectations. Face à Face being rooted in contemporary design, most of our men’s frames have been rectangular/square with both trends to soften or sharpen them.”

Do you think that men are becoming more experimental with their eyewear choices? “I think that men are becoming more experimental in general, and as far as their eyewear is concerned, more aware about self-expression/character, function and fashion. No doubt that we still have a lot to add in order to expand the potential of the men’s eyewear market. I am absolutely thinking in that direction.”

www.faceaface-paris.com JG

 

| Eyestylist 11th February 2013

Tree Houses

Childhood Fantasy Meets Grown-up Savoir Faire

11th February 2013 Are you looking for a unique, romantic destination for a Valentine treat? What could be more romantic than a treehouse! The tree houses featured in Taschen’s delightful new book by author Philip Jodidio are a long way from the childhood versions one might have known.

vatree_houses12
Inkaterra, Canopy Tree House near Puerto Maldonado, Tambopata Peru

Tree Houses have grown up – and this stunningly illustrated book is a wonderful tour of the best tree houses in the world, some which are designed by architects, others the work of unknown craftsmen. In this era of concern for sustainability and ecological responsibility, the treehouse may also be the ultimate symbol of life in symbiosis with nature.

Nicko Bjorn Elliot, Nicko Bjorn Elliot Tree House Toronto Canada
Nicko Bjorn Elliot, Nicko Bjorn Elliot Tree House Toronto Canada

Whether you can visit these unique structures, or travel there through these gorgeous pages, Tree Houses gives a new perspective on the world – rustic, contemporary and romantic.www.taschen.com JG

Photos: Canopy Tree House Copyright: Inkaterra

Nicko Bjorn Elliot Tree House Copyright: Jesse Colin Jackson