Francis Klein
When I visited the Francis Klein studio in Paris, this is one of the frames that immediately caught my “eye”. It’s stylish, a bit racy in bold red and black acetate, with mini coloured pearl and bead trim. Red is set to have fashion impact in the coming months for clothes and accessories, and black is always a fashionista favourite. The details on this frame are fantastic- the frame sides have the illusion of a pleated ruche effect – “ruche” is a fashion trim used in clothing. A strip of red acetate runs between the black – a chic accent. The frame is also a stunner in black acetate and crystal. The collection is available in the delightful little Francis Klein boutique at 30, rue Bonaparte 75006 Paris. For further details: www.francisklein.com JG
Voyage Voyage
Lunettes Kollektion
Described as a classic panto, the elegant model Voyage Voyage is sleek and streamlined with a finely curved temple so that front and arm merge seamlessly into one. The colour choices are an instant draw – foggy grey, smoky asphalt, honey and tortoise are included in the line…each one offering a chic yet pared down look that I believe will work perfectly for the coming season (for those who love a minimal approach to vintage).
Lunettes Kollektion frames are packaged in handmade boxes, by the traditional Berlin-based card and paper company Ernst Ließ. The frames are handmade by traditional, family-owned producers in small batches. The materials used are described as the “finest” available. An unpretentious, high-quality collection which we hope to see a lot more of. CN
No. 1 Heather
Mykita
I have just had this Mykita frame fitted with my prescription by my local independent optician, Wilson, Wilson & Hancock in Tenterden. I have picked out this frame for practical reasons. I like the most high-tech metal frame designs for their comfort and lightness and this ticks those boxes. While I am more used to wearing titanium (also very light and comfortable), this line is created from 0.5mm thick stainless steel sheets, and it is very light. It is also interesting for its functional snap-hinge, the clever design of which means there are no soldered joints or screws used in this style. As far as design goes, Mykita No 1 offers frames for all wearers…you can choose a classic one or a very trendy look. The Heather is a good compromise for me in this area, I see it as an every day frame – not too much of a statement, but there is a vintage feel which makes it a bit special. It is easy for work, everyday wear and subtle enough to be worn with any outfit. I am wearing the Heather in blackberry; the gold is also striking. CN
Larkin
Paul Smith
I’ve got really into this Paul Smith collection and I know a few opticians I trust who are doing extrmely well with it. Apart from the eloquent names of the styles which are all after poets, the line draws part of its inspiration from the British Dandy and musical icons. Larkin is a unisex model with smart vintage lines, perfect as an optical but also well suited to sun lenses. Modelled on the spectacle styles worn by some of the most prolific British poets, the temples have small silver and black enamel round pins. The colour, “golden tortoise ombre” is reminiscent of the more traditional tortoise tones but with a more trendy look than classic interpretations of this patterning in acetate. CN www.paulsmithspectacles.com
B09.5
Gold & Wood Paris / Wood Optic
This is a luxurious men’s optical frame (also produced as a sunglass) made in two exotic sounding woods…tanganika and bubinga for the face. The temples are made of bubinga while the front combines both woods. Wood is a fashionable material given its longevity and refined patterning…and of course its smooth finish which feels nice on the skin. It is an easy-to-wear material that has lots of exciting colours and effects….this style is subdued and classic with clean lines and a matt finish which adds to the sophistication. The combination of the two woods is simple and very effective for the overall elegance of the frame. CN