Eyestylist

  | Eyestylist 1st February 2011

Flirt

Lafont Paris

This frame lives up to its name! Flirt is a design with playful charm and style, in acetate and titanium, created by Lafont, the French company with a noble heritage. Edging close to ninety years of Parisian optical history, the family owned firm is an oasis for distinctive, creative eyewear. This particular frame is modern, feminine and boasts intricate details in the lacy pattern of titanium over caramel acetate. Other colour combinations include violet and black, and a very flirtatious red and black. I wear Lafont frames, and appreciate the uniqueness of the designs, the comfort, and the wonderful service that is available in their four Parisian shops, and at Optik Mayer in Munich. JG

Check out further details on www.lafont.com.

This month’s optical reviews are by Joan Grady. The sunglass reviews are by Clodagh Norton.

  | Eyestylist 1st February 2011

Accessories with a modern twist

Necklaces, spectacle cases and decorative lorgnettes… 

I have enjoyed finding these colourful eyewear accessories, by some of the specialists in decorative spectacle chains, lorgnettes and cases. Filao Paris is run by Caroline Abram, who shows great creative talent in designing these beautiful pieces, but also now creates her own sunglasses and specs…Caroline uses a variety of materials for the jewellery and accessories, including wood, crystals and felt…Filao Paris has its headquarters in Paris…the creations are put together in a Senagalese workshop, supporting members of the local community. www.filaoparis.com

Also featured here is a young, vibrant company from Spain called Flippan Look (Image 3.) which is specialising in contemporary lorgnettes that can be worn as jewellery around the neck. www.flippanlook.com

French eyewear brand Face à Face has, for some years now, produced a range of chains and necklaces (Image 5.) which coordinate with the company’s stunning frames and sunglasses. They use a variety of materials, acetates that match the glasses, to lovely metals including silver.  www.faceaface-paris.com CN

Images 1. Filao Paris  2. Filao Paris  3. Flippan Look  4. Filao Paris  5. Face à Face  6. Filao Paris.

  | Eyestylist 1st February 2011

HOET concept

Cabrio Eyewear

The innovative sunglasses line ‘Cabrio’ differentiates itself by the use of new materials. The designer has invented a special technique of creasing, folding and manual manipulation of the laminated plastic, which determines the desirable shape. The sophisticated material on the outside is combined each time with polypropylene in different colours on the inside and this gives a casual and sporty accent. This is a young collection, presenting a totally novel idea: hat and shades in one. When you try the models on, they are surprisingly wearable…Cabrio Elan, the one pictured, is retailing at around 159 euros. CN

For enquiries about the model in London, try 36 Opticians www.36opticians.co.uk

Schuller Opticians may also be able to help: www.schulleropticians.com

In Paris, try Les Createurs d’Opta, 25 Rue des Abesses www.opta-createurs.net

www.hoet.eu

  | Eyestylist 1st February 2011

Lafont Paris – Fellini

Spectacles inspired by the Italian director

La Dolce Vita, 8 1/2, Casanova, Juliet of the Spirits, Amarcord – each film is a revered classic by the iconic Italian film director, Federico Fellini. Also destined to be a timeless classic is the handsome Fellini frame, designed by Thomas Lafont, inspired by the director. Pure, smooth titanium with a protective PVD treatment is moulded into this elegant, strong, structured shape for men.  The Limited Edition design is crafted to Lafont’s exacting standards. A new concept, a new wave in men’s eyewear. Lafont blazes trails, just like Federico Fellini. JG  www.lafont.com

  | Eyestylist 1st February 2011

Hinge innovation

Sutro Vision, San Francisco

Sutro Vision from San Francisco recently caught my eye. Their sunglasses feature a hinge creation which really stands out. And after looking into it a bit, I’ve found out, with great pleasure, that this brand is all about craftsmanship, a direction that is being revived in eyewear at the moment. Sutro has a signature 3Click™ Hinge, fitted on all its frames. This clever technological innovation provides strength and durability; it’s made of surgical stainless steel. It also provides a unique design detail. Sutro explains that this is the only frame hinge created with 3 clicks, hence its name. (more…)