Eyestylist

This feature is the second part of a two-part series in which we ask optical expert Kayla Heersink of @opticali_style to share her experiences at Vision Expo East and LOFT NYC with particular emphasis on the North American brands she explored. Heersink is an optician and eyewear expert. To read part 1 of the feature click on this link : https://www.eyestylist.com/2024/04/view-from-an-expert-kayla-heersink-shares-favourite-moments-in-nyc/

4. Did you come across anything surprising / mind-blowing or just simply beautiful during your days in NYC in March? I did have my mind blown, and that doesn’t happen too often. I was very lucky to get a preview of the inaugural collection of PRESS eyewear. At the heart of PRESS’ philosophy lies a belief in presenting eyewear in its purest form, allowing beautiful materials to shine while ensuring construction is both unique and remarkably comfortable. Each meticulously crafted piece is fashioned from the finest eco-conscious materials available, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The collection is entirely handmade in Japan. Above: Kayla wearing sunglasses by PRESS Eyewear 

The debut collection features 22 styles across four distinct storylines. For me, the stand-out collection is “The Streamline Collection,” which are jaw-droppingly beautiful titanium pieces that draw inspiration from the elegance of 1950s era automotive design. Streamline is a celebration of exceptional metal craftsmanship. I didn’t want to take these off. They are SO beautiful.

I also loved “The Legends Collection,” handcrafted bio-acetates, that have the big and bold aesthetic without the weight. This collection reimagines favorite artists in a contemporary style. PRESS meticulously considered bridge fit and sizing to cater to clients around the world, ensuring a perfectly comfortable fit for every wearer. Just wow! Above: Press Eyewear – models Bel Air and Barracuda

5. Did you visit any one more than once because you fell in love with their eyewear? I was too busy to visit anyone more than once!

6. Did you learn something new about eyewear craftsmanship or design at any of the North American brands you visited? Rapp Eyewear, out of Toronto, Canada can be completely customized. Individual color and temple length selection, allow shops to get as close to bespoke as possible. Rapp’s signature satin finish acetates and brushed titanium temples can be tailored to fit an individual need. They are expert at using cuts, to reveal. They specialize in difficult fits, and see no reason why a -10 D can’t be fashionable. It only takes two weeks to switch a frame color from one style to another. Frame design is a very collaborative process, with staff and family all weighing in.

Each Rapp frame is named and shaped after their customers and friends. When a frame is named after someone, it will also perfectly fit and flatter that person. It’s not just a nominal tribute, but also a celebration of the unique individual. I saw 3 frames created for the same woman, each representing a different facet of her personality. Beauty and color are very important, “they give the feeling of drinking, but without the bad effect – softning things.” Rapp has created my very favorite sunglass lenses, with a proprietary glitter finish. They bring already beautiful frames to next level.

7. Did you spot any sustainable ideas amongst the North American eyewear collections you went to see and is this of importance yet in your opinion there? Reducing waste and sustainability is increasingly becoming something manufacturers are trying to address, and that consumers care about.
Fellow Earthlings founders Chris and Sydney Seggie sought to create a different kind of eyewear company in their small town on Prince Edward Island, Canada. They specialize in custom handmade eyewear, short-run production, design and prototyping.  Fellow Earthlings has devoted their focus to sustainability, which has led them to develop an exclusive in-house acetate recycling program – reprocessing would-be waste material in a traditional manufacturing environment, into 1/1 frames.

No two Fellow Earthlings styles are the same. They produce new sheets of beautifully marbled acetate colors from the off-cuts of other frames. The colors range from tropical neons to opalescent pastels and everything in between. A field trip to their factory is at the top of my to-do list. I can’t wait to make my own creation.

8. For something really special: what was the coolest bar or cafe you visited or found by chance that that you’ll be going back to.
I highly recommend the clam pizza + scallop crudo at Pasquale Jones in Soho!

Follow @eyestylistmagazine + @opticali_style on Instagram for more information about the companies that Kayla visited.