independenteyewear

Kaci: blending tradition with the avant-garde

10th November 2025

With frames designed to “transcend the boundaries of time and space,” Kaci is a relatively new entry in eyewear. The brand was founded in 2022 by Kalila and Yannis Kaci and was one of the highlights amongst the emerging eyewear exhibitors at Silmo Paris 2025

Fascinated by the Berber civilisation, the traditional work of Moroccan artisans, and the infinite possibilities of using traditional, authentic methods of craftsmanship in eyewear production today: Kaci eyewear by Kalila and Yannis Kaci is designed in colours and nuances which honour the light and soul of the rich Berber culture – its land and its people. With a passion for artisan excellence, Kalila and Yannis have developed their collection in the Jura in France, using carefully selected natural and sustainable materials – in close collaboration with ‘family’ workshops and makers. Their acetate materials come from Mazzucchelli – the vivid colours and tones (taking inspiration from Berber textiles) are selected by the co-founders and include tortoise effects, which they say reveal their tones and subtleties beautifully in the sun. Above: the Kaci eyewear collection features models which have an attractive sculptural look with visible bevelling

Kaci: the frames feature bold bevels for a sculpted effect: model Asif, above, is named after a river that embodies the “vital force” – the tip features an engraving in Tifinagh – the Libyco-Berber script – below in bright orange, model Damya

The co-founders have also placed particular importance on finding a true sense of comfort in their styles. “Our top priority is comfort which is why most of our models feature tinted gradient photochromic lenses.” The lenses are by Zeiss and are featured with tints that are both elegant and timeless, from more classic tones of opal grey and emerald green to graduated colours with enhanced protection, well suited for driving or for a touch of understated style – or extra-dark lenses for maximum protection in bright sunlight.

100% Optical 28 FEB - 2 MAR 2026, Excel London

Tafukt by Kaci: bold lines and beautiful tones create different moods – for different personalities

All the styles (sun and optical) feature the attractive Tifanah lettering engraved in temple tips or on the top edge of the front, a subtle mark of identity and uniqueness that perfectly embellishes the bold and graphic Kaci silhouettes.

About Kaci – Kaci is a contemporary eyewear brand founded in 2022. Known for its sculptural silhouettes and ties with Morocco, the brand creates frames that are rooted in a Franco-Berber heritage, which embody the culture of tomorrow, drawing inspiration from ancestral savoir-faire and a spirit of freedom. Each piece is crafted with premium materials, and inspired by the striking colours and designs of the Berber culture. Find out more at https://kaciparis.com

Design + Inspiration

Iconic eyewear: J.F. Rey revisits an icon

30th October 2025

The French brand has introduced a new version of the iconic JF2207 ‘Scorpion’

Reimagined as the ‘ICONIC40’, this exclusive new limited edition style comes in four colorways, each crafted in 400 individually numbered pieces. The frame has been created in 2025 as part of the 40th anniversary celebrations at the Marseille eyewear company. Above: the new J.F. Rey ICONIC40 style is suitable for men and women

The original Scorpion frame – *image provided by J.F. Rey*

Launched in 2007 and named the “Scorpion,” the original frame stood out for its groundbreaking design, technical articulated temples reminiscent of a scorpion’s shell, and spectacular graphic presence, for J.F. Rey, a symbol of the brand’s daring aesthetic and innovative work in metal.

The new ICONIC40 design, based on the JF2207 Scorpion

The ICONIC40 edition is designed to highlight sculptural lines, and features refined finishes and premium materials. Exclusive temple stamping and a sophisticated colour palett,e highlights the brand’s signature two-tone detailing; the glossy silver version is a nod to the original model. The segment articulation on the temples has been refined in the new model so that it feels lighter and more ergonomic “but always staying true to its signature kinetic feel”. For more information visit www.jfrey.fr

To read more about J.F. Rey on Eyestylist.com visit https://www.eyestylist.com/2023/11/andersen-sunglasses-by-j-f-rey/ and https://www.eyestylist.com/2025/09/silmo-paris-2025-j-f-rey/

Design + Inspiration

TVR®OPT: Woody Carved Collection celebrates 10th anniversary

8th October 2025

The collection launched in Beijing, China in September; it is now available worldwide

Renowned for his refined digital illustrations that merge fashion with storytelling, South Korean artist Seungwon Hong continues to blur the lines between art and style through his latest collaboration with TVR®OPT. As the Woody Carved collection celebrates its tenth anniversary, Hong reflects on his creative journey, his passion for fashion, and the inspiration behind The Golden Wood Grain—a golden-hued tribute to craftsmanship, nature, and timeless design.

Based in Seoul, Hong is celebrated for his fusion of men’s fashion and impressionistic art. Inspired by stylish individuals and classical masters like Van Gogh, Monet, and Gauguin, his work resonates with elegance and emotional depth. Using digital tools such as tablets, Photoshop, and a MacBook Pro, he has collaborated with major fashion houses including Giorgio Armani, Zegna, and Brooks Brothers, with his illustrations exhibited widely across Seoul. His aesthetic is also shaped by cinematic icons, particularly James Bond, whose refined style continues to influence his creative direction. Above: new “Woody Carved” designs from TVR®OPT

TVR®OPT: Woody Carved Collection 2025 – the wood grain effect has a unique look

Hong’s relationship with TVR®OPT began in 2016 with a fashion illustration project interpreting the brand’s eyewear through his distinctive lens. This partnership blossomed into a formal collaboration in 2021 with the TVR® Classic JD Blackwood Edition. Now, in 2025, he returns with The Golden Wood Grain, the key visual for TVR®OPT’s Art Edition Packaging Collection, launched to honour a decade of the Woody Carved collection.

TVR®OPT China marked its official return with an exclusive private event and trunk show, held for the first time under the direct management of the Japan team. Taking place at The Ascott Hotel, Beijing in September, the event welcomed VIPs, KOLs, and loyal customers. Guests were invited to participate in a hands-on Woody Carved Workshop, deepening their appreciation of the artistry behind the collection. Themed around art and craftsmanship, the event celebrated both the tenth anniversary of the Woody Carved Collection—which debuted in 2013—and the launch of the new Art Edition, featuring Hong’s illustrations. The wood texture, now iconic to TVR®OPT, traces its origins back to the 1999 Wood Tone Romance Collection, created by master craftsman Eizo Onami. Exclusive décor inspired by Hong’s new artworks further brought the spirit of the collaboration to life.

Event in China to launch the collection, featuring the collaborative works for the launch by South Korean artist, Seungwon Hong

The Woody Carved story began with Mokuchoroman (木調浪漫), or “Wood Tone Romance,” a poetic vision of eyewear that resembled wood without being made of it. This philosophy lives on in TVR®OPT Woody Carved—a modern reinterpretation that combines hand-brushed wood grain artistry with vintage-inspired design. Founder Eizo Onami reflects on this evolution, describing it as a journey shaped by both romance and resilience.

Onami was guided by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which embraces imperfection and natural simplicity. He introduced the subtle “Aged Rivet” detail to symbolise the passage of time, creating a design that honours the raw beauty of nature and the acceptance of flaws.

“I’ve always wanted to create eyewear made from wood, but using real wood presents many challenges. It doesn’t last, it’s difficult to shape, and it wears quickly with weather changes. People may not fully realise the issues that come with actual wooden frames.” — Eizo Onami, TVR®OPT

TVR®OPT: concept and packaging for Woody Carved frames by Seungwon Hong

First launched in 2015, the collection returns with limited editions of the TVR®504 and TVR®505 frames. Key updates include upgraded hinges with 14K gold washers and the 6mm Japanese Zylonite acetate frames. The hand-brushed wood grain textures gain character over time.

Designed and developed by Eizo Onami – With more than 50 years in eyewear, Onami developed the patented Woody Carved technique—a process of over 280 meticulous steps performed by a single craftsman. Each frame is hand-brushed with a metal brush to replicate natural wood grain, gradually developing a glossy patina unique to every wearer. This innovative method, never before used in eyewear, has since inspired many brands worldwide. Following the passing of its original craftsmen, the collection was discontinued for years. Onami devoted over a decade to reviving the technique, training new artisans and refining the process. After five years of intensive development, the 2025 re-release marks a new chapter for TVR®OPT—a testament to the patience, dedication, and pride that define true handmade craftsmanship.

Find out more about the new collection at www.tvropt.com

All images by kind permission of TVR®OPT

Arts + travel

Eyewear event: Hall of Frames (HOF), Lucerne

7th October 2025

The event took place on Sunday, 14th September 2025 at the Swiss Museum of Transport

Hall of Frames, the annual Swiss eyewear event for opticians, took place in September at the Swiss Museum of Transport in Lucerne, a popular location in the picturesque city surrounded by mountains. The event attracted an array of beautiful new eyewear collections for the Autumn/Winter season, from creative designers and independent eyewear brands. HOF aims to offer visitors an overview of eyewear design and optical innovation, as a place that is relaxed and intimate for opticians to discover new styles and eyewear produced in trend-oriented materials. “Alongside established materials such as acetate, titanium and polyamide, eyewear made from carbon and horn was also on display,” the organisers said after the show. “Brands such as Marcus Marienfeld and ic! berlin (carbon) or Wollenweber and Marcus Marienfeld (horn) confirmed the continued demand for robust, lightweight and elegant frames. The selection also included the distinctive wooden spectacles from Rolf – made in the Tyrol. The oversized models from Coblens continue to be among the must-haves of the season, as do the striking and characterful shapes from Nirvan Javan, Moscot NYC and Ross & Brown,” they added. Above: Nathanaël Wenger and Eveline Perritaz, organisers of Hall of Frames

A photo shoot takes place during the event to showcase frames by exhibitors – frame by Wollenweber Hornline

Sports brands were also strongly represented in Lucerne this year. Out Of, Bollé and Evil Eye underlined the growing importance of functional eyewear, the organisers said. In addition, Swiss labels Didier Voirol, Einstoffen, Feller, Nirvan Javan and Marcus Marienfeld were in the spotlight, highlighting the close ties to the domestic eyewear scene. Among HOF’s valued partners in 2025 were Nikon – distributed by Reize Optik – as main partner, as well as Dynoptic, Beck Optikhandel and Studio Arenas.

Independent eyewear brands are the focus at Hall of Frames – offering a showcase of fine eyewear design and new directions – frame by Ørgreen Optics

In 2026, the HOF will take place in Zurich – at the Emil Frey Autocity Nord in Oerlikon. The concept of regular changes of scenery remains useful, the organisers have stated, and promises fresh impetus for the independent eyewear scene in Switzerland.

About Hall of Frames: For almost 20 years, the Hall of Frames has been promoting independent optical retailers and eyewear designers. Around 50 national and international eyewear brands present their latest collections each year at this table-top exhibition, which features both established brands and promising newcomers. The HOF offers a comprehensive insight into current trends and innovations in the industry and is an important meeting place for professionals in the Swiss eyewear market.

Photography by Sarah Kim Hirschi (https://sarahkimstudio.ch/ Model: Lea Harder

For more information about Hall of Frames in 2026 visit www.hallofframes.com Photography provided courtesy of Hall of Frames

Boutiques

Luxury retailing: Götti Switzerland showroom, Lucerne

18th September 2025

A dedicated flagship showroom – ‘Home of Götti’ – celebrates the Götti Perspective eyewear collection – the space which has been conceived as a gallery-style concept store is located in the Götti Brand Store in Lucerne, a historic premises that provides insight into the manufacture of rimless eyewear and showcases the world‘s largest selection of the Swiss eyewear brand

Pure lines, minimalism, and innovative materials; aluminium cubes and bold transparent orange structures: the newly renovated showroom, where Götti was first created 30 years ago, provides insight into the creation and manufacturing process at the company, showcasing the workmanship and innovation of the Götti Perspective collection. Visitors can explore the entire collection and will find exclusive, artistic one-offs and limited edition models that can only be seen in this space. The renovated space opened to the public this month. Above: the showroom features bold architectural displays in orange and white; below – unique designs are featured alongside the ‘Perspective’ collection

About Götti Switzerland – Götti is a premium eyewear producer, founded by Sven Götti. The brand focuses on minimalism, craftsmanship and technical excellence. Offering a whole selection of acetate, metal and horn glasses, they are also specialists in 3D printing and production of lightweight, rimless design. Find out more on Eyestylist.com at https://www.eyestylist.com/2025/04/3d-printed-styles-released-at-gotti-switzerland/

GÖTTI BRAND STORE LUZERN, Götti + Niederer, Mühlenplatz 1, 6004 Luzern, Switzerland – www.gotti.ch