Eyestylist

A new collection by FACE A FACE looks to Japan for its design inspiration – discover Japan Now!

Issey Miyake’s pleats, NENDO’s intriguing minimalist design language and Shiro Kuramata’s armchair with cylindrical backrest are just some of the iconic Japanese references to which the designers of FACE A FACE have paid homage in the line. The new references arose as the French independent brand continued its exploration of the Italian 1980s-era Memphis Movement – its key characteristics and links to a wider creative universe beyond. Above: Pleats2 in the FACE A FACE Japan Now! collection is inspired by the Pleats Please collection by Issey Miyake, a great admirer of Sottsass’ work. The frame is characterised by solid volumes counterbalanced between two coloured lines – see more on the Pleats1 at https://www.eyestylist.com/2023/09/trends-geometric-frames-shapes-combined/

Model Nendo is informed by the design style of the Japanese design studio Nendo. Most notable is the skilful milling of the frame front which creates a halo at the back of the structure of the frame front – and a clever “chiaroscuro” effect of colour and colour contrasts, highlighted further in the highly decorative acetate temples.

A fusion of classic features and contemporary edge from a brand that produces its styles exclusively in France

A new name in the fine eyewear segment, Leimann Eyewear has a cool sleek style, developing a collection of frames (for men and women) rooted in the French tradition of quality, finesse and handcrafting, and made in Normandy by one of France’s premiere manufacturers. Above: Leimann Eyewear – sunglass models Leim XII, XIII, and XVIII in crystal grey feature temples which reveal the temple core and its fine lines beneath 

The LEIM V model is one of those sunglasses which feels ultra classic and easy to wear; it features high-quality sun lenses offering 100% UVA and UVB protection with anti-reflective and hydrophobic treatment.

The round unisex metal style – LEIM XVI – is a failsafe classic, a desirable look this season for those who lean towards a slightly more intellectual eyewear shape. This product will pack a punch worn as sunglasses or optical frames, with its classic references and well-proportioned round shape that stands out from the crowd. For more information visit www.leimann.fr

By Clodagh Norton – A beautiful alignment of creativity shines through in a dynamic collaboration between Lafont Paris and Maison Pierre Frey – another special reference for the Parisian eyewear firm that celebrates 100 years of family history this year

French eyewear house Lafont Paris and La Maison Pierre Frey, a Parisian purveyor of fine fabric, have worked together to achieve a special edition of six frames which showcase Frey fabrics inside the cellulose acetate. Lafont has expertise in working with fabrics such as Tartan, Liberty prints and Tulle  – placed perfectly inside the acetate layers of the frames: their know-how dates back to the 1970s. Matthieu Lafont told Eyestylist that in recent years there has been a rise in fabric frames for all ages at Lafont, hence the inspiration for the new collaboration frames. “The last 10 years have seen a renewal of our fabric offer in the collection, for kids and then adult sunglasses and optical frames. The Pierre Frey collab is bringing it to a next level.”

Above: Lafont x Pierre Frey sunglasses: the result of the partnership of two emblematic creative universes with two distinct areas of expertise. Inspired by the imaginative richness of Maison Pierre Frey, Thomas Lafont combined their fabrics into the eyewear designs – following a special tradition at the family-owned eyewear business which has had lasting success through many decades

About Pierre Frey: Founded in 1935, Maison Pierre Frey creates and manufactures high-end textiles and furnishing fabrics. Certified as an ‘Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant‘ (EPV), Maison Pierre Frey stands out for its mastery of excellent craftsmanship and industrial ingenuity contributing to the influence of the French Art de vivre. Rich in family history, nurtured by a love of fine artistry, attention to detail and a drive to create – the Maison shares the values of the Parisian eyewear company Maison Lafont. For more information visit – www.lafont.com and www.pierrefrey.com