Eyestylist

Hall of Frames 2024: Lucerne, Switzerland

21st August 2024

An inspiring eyewear event for September with collections by international players

Hall of Frames (HOF) have confirmed their annual event taking place on 15th September (9am to 5pm) at the Museum of Transport in Lucerne (Switzerland) for optical professionals. 57 collections will be showcased on the day, with exhibiting companies from across Europe and further afield.

Nathanaël Wenger told Eyestylist in conversation today: “We have a full house for the upcoming Hall of Frames show this year, and it will be another excellent opportunity to meet up, network and enjoy some time together after the summer vacation….” Above: YOUMAWO, the 3D printed customised eyewear innovators will exhibit at the HOF again this year

Nirvan Javan return to the Hall of Frames event in September with a selection of designs and the Marrakech collection

As well as an established group of brands returning, we are welcoming some brands for the first time, including French brands, Anne & Valentin and François Pinton….there will be a good range of fashionable, design-oriented eyewear for opticians to view. We expect the same relaxed and sociable atmosphere as in recent years.”

Runaway in the HAVN collection by Ørgreen Optics – the Danish company will be present at HOF

The HOF event will feature a selection of well-known independent design and creative brands including Andy Wolf, Carven, Colibris, Coblens, Didier Voirol, J.F. Rey, Look, Nine Eyewear, Nirvan Javan, Ørgreen, Rolf and You Mawo. First-time exhibitors include Anne & Valentin, Alfred Kerbs, Etro, Fleye Copenhagen, François Pinton, Freigeist and VM l’Atelier. Find out more at www.hallofframes.ch

Design & Inspiration

Silmo Paris 2024: new directions

19th August 2024

The international optical fair will showcase a broad overview of the latest eyewear collections by luxury, fashion, lifestyle and sports brands as well as seeing an impressive attendance of the independent creative designers in the business – the Paris event promises many different dedicated spaces across the show floor offering visitors the chance to discover the future of optics and eyewear with special attention on the emergence of AI and new technologies such as 3D printing

Silmo 2024, which takes place from 20th to 23rd September at Paris Nord Villepinte, remains the premiere international optics and eyewear event of the season for optical professionals from across the world. The event will feature over 900 exhibitors and 1,500 brands from around the world, highlighting innovation, trends, technology developments and sustainable topics that are shaping the future of the optical industry.

Highlights of the event this year will be the Futurology space, where visitors will be invited to take an immersive dive into the future of optics. Technological innovations and interactive experiences will show different future paths for the sector. Those looking for eyewear innovation and design inspiration will find packed Halls – 6 and 7 – where iconic and established brands exhibit alongside some of the latest and youngest labels making a name for themselves in the business.

The highly regarded Silmo D’Or awards will be announced during a prestigious ceremony to be held in an exceptional Paris venue marking the 30th anniversary of the Silmo d’Or awards presentation. All the nominated and winning products will be exhibited in Hall 7, in what is expected to be an exceptional display for the innovations and talent found in the sector this year. Above: Andy Wolf’s new collection promises plenty of variety in all areas. In addition to new shapes in the “Shape in Shape in Shape” collection, exciting new colour gradients and playful work on unusual shapes and facets, a new line will also be introduced that gives way to a new luxury within the collection. Among the optical releases is model 5148 pictured, an oversized frame made of thick acetate that points to new season directions with its distinctive cat’s eye shape and pronounced facets – with two exclusive colour gradients – www.andy-wolf.com

Rolf is adding new models across its collections for adults and children – at Silmo 2024

Rolf will unveil thirteen brand-new styles from five distinctive collections. Inspired by the refined elegance and timeless romance of France, the Classics models highlight a vintage-inspired, sophisticated aesthetic. Johannes Wacker, the designer behind Rolf’s eyewear, commented about the special releases now previewing: “About a quarter of our new designs, which we’ve named Character, are bold, vibrant, and extravagant, perfectly matching the fashion capital – Paris. These pieces are for the courageous, fashion-forward wearers….” Find out more at www.rolf-spectacles.com

Fusioni 146-04 by Italian brand, Lamarca

FUSIONI 146 is part of Lamarca’s September release for international markets and has been created as a leading statement style for the upcoming autumn/winter season. This frame has a distinctive design that simulates a graphic pattern. The milled details create sequential reliefs, and attractive colour contrasts form a captivating palette. The adaptable size of the frame makes it a versatile choice, enabling opticians to offer it as both prescription glasses and sunglasses. www.lamarcaeyewear.com

MOVITRA have announced this month that they will show 11 new models at Silmo including the new Apex Titanium collection

At MOVITRA, the new releases for Silmo include the APEX Titanium Collection, a cutting-edge eyewear range featuring products made exclusively in titanium. The collection is characterized by a completely new and innovative product architecture conceived to offer an exceptionally comfortable fit, while a series of unique features have been developed for the ultimate performance. Each frame also features some notable aesthetic details such as a two-piece titanium bridge with dual polished/brushed finish. www.movitra.it

Quincy – part of the Blackfin One collection

The Italian eyewear company Blackfin plans to show a cornucopia of titanium designs – including bold styles in the Atlantic series and more streamlined ones in the Pacific range. Colour illuminates the design of the new frames, interpreting a style concept in which Italian artisan craftsmanship and superior quality converge, the company explains. Highlights will include soft and striking colours such as lilac and blue, with Blackfin’s innovative signature bi-colour graduated effects featuring for some models like Quincy (pictured above) – an eye-catching, contemporary design with a trendy new round-oval shape. www.blackfin.eu

A new must-have at Diffuser Tokyo: a luxurious display tray

Accessories are an extra special treat at the Silmo show. Highly recommended for its fast growing high-quality collection is the Japanese label Diffuser Tokyo, where much innovation and material research provides the basis for beautifully finished eyewear storage pieces, chains, cords and cases – for men and women. Made in Japan, their new original iron core leather laminated display tray is one of the latest designs to feature, offered in black and white, black and orange, black and blue or black and green. See the full range ahead of Silmo at www.diffuser-tokyo.com

Silmo 2024 takes place from 20th to 23rd September 2024 at Paris Nord Villepinte. This year, the fair will offer many new events and workshops for optical professionals with particular emphasis on technological change in the FUTUROLOGY Space and new innovation via the Trends by SILMO Forum Exhibition, which will offer a look at the image, shape, colour and materials of different frames, in a comprehensive overview that sheds light on the best eyeglasses and sunglasses by the exhibitors at the trade fair. The four key trends which will be explored are: “Free Colorama” – on bold colour stories and colour combinations; “Virtuous Simplicity” – on the minimal direction in eyewear design, “Classic Variations” – on timeless classics and ‘Full Sun’ – on sunglasses as an expressive fashion accessory in all categories.

For further details and registration visit www.silmoparis.com. Watch our Eyestylist Design + Inspiration page for the next weeks for more updates and previews for the Paris show! There’s just one month to go!

Sustainable design

REGRIND produce recycled eyewear material for fashion brands

14th August 2024

This season, selected eyewear models at BALENCIAGA are made from old frames through the unique patented Swedish innovation process, REGRIND by EOE Eyewear

The independent sustainable eyewear materials innovators, REGRIND have announced that the latest BALENCIAGA eyewear collection features a model in several colours made from the recycled material that they have developed over the last few years. REGRIND utilizes old discarded eyewear and repurposes it to make a new attractive circular acetate material suitable for new designs.

The recycling rate of the old eyewear is an impressive 98%, and the resulting bio acetate material has multiple properties in terms of its quality, flexibility and durability, as well as endless creative possibilities for colour and pattern. Each frame produced through this process has up to 35% lower CO2 emissions compared to a standard frame according to a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Above: REGRIND recycled material samples – the colours and patterns of the material have been developed for high-quality collections

Balenciaga Neo Round, produced in circular Regrind™ acetate. The acetate used for the Balenciaga Neo Round was chosen from REGRIND’s in-house selection of acetate; the material can also be customised for the client – *image courtesy of REGRIND*

Furthermore, the REGRIND team has taken care to ensure that the electricity used in the regrinding process is certified to come from renewable sources. The REGRIND™ process is ISCC plus certified and measured by the ISO14040 method to follow a fair and scientific Life Cycle Analysis.

REGRIND by EOE Eyewear – a company founded in Swedish Lapland – is one of the leading materials innovators in Europe, working for change towards a more sustainable eyewear industry, where design and quality together, come first. To find out more about the REGRIND process visit https://www.eyestylist.com/2022/06/regrind-an-innovative-approach-to-circular-design/ For further information visit www.regrind.se

Creative spirits

Erida Schaefer, Founder of OtrO Eyewear

13th August 2024

Erida Schaefer is a visual artist turned optical entrepreneur. From a lightbulb moment resulting in taking a paint brush to her own frames, to debuting at New York Fashion Week and exhibiting at Silmo two years in a row, Schaefer’s artisanal brand OtrO takes a curated, artistic approach that is not seen elsewhere in the industry. The brand will return to Silmo in September 2024.

Tell us about your life and career path before OtrO Eyewear? I completed my studies in Visual Arts back in 1988. Since then, I have delved into various artistic mediums such as ceramics, straw bags, cushions, and canvas. However, my true passion has always been to explore newer avenues. Early on, due to monocular visual loss from toxoplasmosis, I required glasses. Because of that, I grew a small collection of frames. Inspired one day, I painted one of these frames – and to my surprise, orders began pouring in. Though my technique was initially quite basic, with time and experimentation I improved my skills and found the right materials. Above: Erida Schaefer, the Founder of OtrO Eyewear, wearing one of her own optical designs

OtrO Eyewear: the colour stories are always vibrant and flattering

After five months, I found myself featured in a magazine article. It was at this moment that I contemplated transitioning into the eyewear business. Years were spent meticulously painting, learning, and evolving. This niche remained untouched in Brazil, and my boundless creativity and knack for innovation captured global attention.

The turning point happened when I was invited to showcase my inaugural acetate collection at New York Fashion Week in 2018. Although opportunities were coming my way, I faced a major challenge: the inability to meet demand through solo painting. I started to design my own optical models and sunglasses, and moved away from just modifying existing ones. The process shifted from surface painting to incorporating painted fabrics between layers of exquisite Italian acetate, crafted in a modest Brazilian workshop.

Feminine shapes are a a signature of the OtrO collection

Over four years, I produced more than 20 distinctive models – a significant achievement for a newcomer with no industrial support. Yet, this was merely a stepping stone. Driven by a fervour to demonstrate the power of individual creativity regardless of location or industry norms, I invested my savings in exhibiting at Silmo for two consecutive years. This endeavour expanded my reach globally, fostering sales across multiple countries and paving the way for future growth.

Despite encountering market resistance, particularly due to import taxes and uncontrolled shipping charges from Brazil, my sights are set on manufacturing in Europe. This strategic move aims to streamline accessibility for admirers of my work, facilitating smoother transactions barred by tax barriers. As I continue to evolve and expand, I remain strong in my mission to break new ground and redefine the eyewear landscape.

Artisan frames with bold character by OtrO Eyewear – Amazônia

What are the origins of OtrO Eyewear? The name OtrO, derived from the Spanish word for “another one”, encapsulates the essence of a continuous desire for uniqueness and distinction and the need for one more frame in everyone’s own collection. Sonically and visually captivating, it serves as a name that resonates effortlessly. Rooted in the notion of perpetual craving for innovation, OtrO stands out for its distinctiveness in a sea of conformity.

Central to my ideas is the pursuit of artistic individuality, a facet I fervently emphasize in my creative process. Through captivating videos showcasing the intricate art of clay moulding, I offer viewers a tantalizing glimpse into the journey towards a three-dimensional masterpiece. By meticulously crafting each piece with a keen eye for detail, I strive to imbue every design with a sense of depth and character before transitioning them into production.

We would love to hear about your most recent collection…Our latest collections are Amazônia, Rio de Janeiro and Cobogó. Amazônia breathes life with its detailed references and the graceful curves borrowed from our lush botanical wonders. Rio de Janeiro exudes the vibrant spirit of our tropical beaches, showcasing unexpected colour palettes and national drinks such as the zesty “Caipirinha” and the refreshing “Aperol”. Cobogó holds a special place in my heart, drawing inspiration from a quintessential Brazilian architectural marvel of the 1920s. Intricately adorned with bas-reliefs, these pieces once adorned the facades of homes, offering ventilation and light to combat the sweltering heat of the northeastern regions. (more…)

Reviews

Erker’s Special Reserve: Murray

5th August 2024

The new style is the latest addition in the limited-production Special Reserve collection

A masculine design, with luxurious details, the new Murray style from Erker’s 1879 features a mix of surgical steel and cellulose acetate and has been handcrafted in small batches, only 100 of each colour. A new development for the Special Reserve collection, the Murray is the first eyeglass to stray from the usual acetate build with a combination design. An acetate brow section has been paired with slim metal rims, which are decorated with a diamond-like pattern along the outer edge. Much like the rest of the collection, the frame boasts an ornate temple design and is named after one of the long-time sales reps of the heritage brand. Above: a handsome combination style: the Murray glasses by Erker’s 1879

Murray by Erker’s, pictured in terrazzo (above) and tortoise (below)

The Murray eyeglasses were designed with a classic rectangular silhouette, created in four colours, navy with silver, tortoise, terrazzo, and matte black. Never before seen at Erker’s 1879, the Terrazzo colour blend pairs warm orange and cool blue tones for a unique, contemporary style, complemented by the lustrous golden rims. The three additional colours are more simple and classic, allowing the metal elements to shine.

Continuing their tradition of storytelling, the Special Reserve collection encapsulates the 145-year history of their heritage brand with special insignia throughout the design of each frame. Inspiring the Ferris wheel rivets on the face and temples of the frame, the Erker family served as the official photographer of the 1904 World’s Fair, capturing the legendary Ferris wheel in downtown St. Louis. In 1927, the brand’s founding brothers designed the goggles worn by Charles Lindbergh for the first-ever nonstop transatlantic flight, which is represented by the goggles etched on the temple tips. The story doesn’t end there, with various custom elements relating to the five generations to run the business since their inception and their history in the city of St. Louis.

Erker’s 1879 have confirmed that they will soon release three additional eyeglass models in the Special Reserve collection.

https://erkers1879.com/pages/erkers-special-reserve

Censur by Prodesign: a win at SILMO 2024

REGRIND produce recycled eyewear material for fashion brands

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Silmo Paris 2024: new directions

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Eyestylist

Hall of Frames 2024: Lucerne, Switzerland

Silmo Paris 2024: new directions

REGRIND produce recycled eyewear material for fashion brands

Erida Schaefer, Founder of OtrO Eyewear

Erker’s Special Reserve: Murray