Design & Inspiration

Silmo Preview: design details shine again

13th September 2024

The international optical event in Paris, opening on Friday 20th September, will see countless new collection launches and a spectacular array of new ideas and innovations in design…Eyestylist is delighted to preview some of the releases here below and in the coming days leading up to the show…..

From new, alluring colours and combinations to eye-catching surface design and material innovation, this year’s releases at the Paris fair promise ingenuity, originality and some extraordinary artistic touches – all elements that will continue to elevate eyewear as a unique accessory in the worlds of fashion and design, cultivating an exceptional feeling of desirability and individuality in a form of self-expression. Above: Developments in surface decoration and surface tactility in eyewear design will be an interesting topic for Silmo 2024: exclusively for the Paris event, the Colour Edition ‘L’Intemporel’ in the 70700 model by LOOK from Italy, inspired by the modern ‘lived-in’ trend, will be presented for the first time. An innovative processing technique has made it possible to work with their signature Alumix material to create a fascinating “distressed” effect; according to Look, the material can be recycled without any compromise to its particular material characteristics – www.lookocchiali.it

RESPECT 3223 by Lafont Paris: berry tones in gradient to a subtle light blue

Colour stories are always a highlight on the Lafont stand at the Silmo Paris event: in previews of the new frame designs, playful graduated colour, expressive patterns – typical of the French brand – and chic bold tones of bright blue and deep purple suggested a revival of a beautiful richness of tones… the frames also point to a spectacular design variety executed with handcrafted finesse – to be revealed through their many new design concepts in Paris – from Friday. www.lafont.com

Architectural details: Sacha by henau eyewear

Henau Eyewear has established a niche collection of one-off silhouettes they describe as “eyewear couture”: pieces which blend functionality and avant-garde design. The new styles such as model Sacha explore traditional eyewear shapes such as the round shape, interpreting it with a signature look that incorporates architectural design detailing, subtle use of colour combination or a fusion of saturated colour and translucency. A fantastic twist of art-inspired brightness is evident in some of the colour proposals and the two-tone variations. www.henau-eyewear.com

At LAMARCA Eyewear (Italy), model CESELLI 150 represents a new departure for the decorative flourishes in this beautiful creative acetate range. The frame features diagonal millings with chiselled and sandblasted elements that are completely unique in eyewear. At Silmo, LAMARCA will also present the new FUSIONI 146 – an iconic design which explores strong colour contrasts. www.lamarcaeyewear.com

LEINZ Eyewear from Berlin will show at SILMO – the label is shortlisted in the Silmo D’Or category – Technological Innovation in Eyewear Category

Since the advent of 3D printing, it has been a major challenge to achieve transparency for more lightness and beauty in the eyewear printing industry. A new 3D technology works with an acrylic-based liquid resin which results in a smooth, translucent surface when printed. Berlin eyewear designer LEINZ combines the established SLS 3D-printing process and the new technology in one frame, enabling them to create a new, futuristic aesthetic in eyewear design. Find out about the brand at https://leinzeyewear.de

Helen by Götti Switzerland – the acetate frame has an attractive graduated effect incorporating several tones of colour

Götti Switzerland has announced a selection of new releases for adults and children for Silmo 2024. Among the highlights will be frames in a range of luxurious materials including acetate, titanium and buffalo horn. As well as inspiration from the 1980s, the company has revealed some particular design details in the new range, including sophisticated ombré colour nuances, fine-edged frames with filigree details and classics that offer a timeless beauty for those who seek out beautifully made products that will stand the test of time. www.gotti.ch

Silmo Paris takes place from Friday 20th September to Monday 23rd September 2024. Visit www.silmoparis.com for more information about visiting the fair and to access the latest Exhibitor list. For more previews with Eyestylist, follow our website in the run up to the fair.

Design & Inspiration

Silmo Preview: Gigi Studios’ VANGUARD

11th September 2024

Bold, contemporary designs characterise the Vanguard collection, a collection by the Spanish fashion eyewear brand from Barcelona

Gigi Studios is previewing new models in its sun and optical collections, including the popular Vanguard range which fuses sophistication and “a fashion-forward attitude”. The new additions in the Vanguard Optical and Sunglass collections have strong architectural shapes and feature a range of unique gradient acetates, crafted after numerous trials – to achieve the ideal shades. Above: unisex model Lumi has an aviator inspired shape, and features in Gigi Studios’ new campaign called “Good Luck”

Rosalia by Gigi Studios: the frame feels like a mask and has subtle bevels to create a trendy finish

Models Anja and Rosalia in the Vanguard collection have an earthy and ochre-infused colour palette to capture the essence of the Autumn/Winter season, with subtle highlights to enhance the designs. Among the sun models are gradient effects which have been meticulously developed in vertical and horizontal lines to achieve the collection’s feminine and vanguardist aesthetic.

Roberta in the Vanguard collection by Gigi Studios: a large, modern shield design – above, the oval Anja sunglasses with a gradient effect

Vanguard is known for its daring, statement shapes sculpted from lightweight acetates, showcasing intricate angles and bevels. In the new designs, technical advancements have been at the forefront of the development of the collection with the introduction of new hinges and customized components engraved with the Gigi Studios logo. At Silmo, Gigi Studios will also show new designs in the Icons, Mens and Lab collections. Find out more at www.gigistudios.com

Design & Inspiration

TVR®OPT: the Chapter collection

6th September 2024

The Japanese eyewear label has a brand new release representative of its “next chapter” – in classics for tomorrow

TVR®OPT Japan’s new Chapter collection is a special edition of combination styles designed for Autumn/Winter 2024. Building on the success of the Sterling Silver Rimless Collection (TVR®536) by Tsubota Masato, TVR®OPT continues to push the boundaries of eyewear innovation from its unique position at the centre of the spectacle-making region of Japan.

The Chapter collection has come to fruition as a dedication to Mastercraftsman Sawada Yaemon’s desire to create his own series, over a decade since he launched his first and final collection, Takumi Sawada, in 2014. Named Takumi Sawada (壱), (弐), (参), and (四), this series was his debut line, produced under his name. “Takumi” means craftsman or artisan, so Takumi Sawada signifies “made by Craftsman Sawada.” Despite receiving positive feedback from stores across Japan, it was also his sole collection, as he faced challenges due to heavy workloads and declining health, leading to its discontinuation.

Today, TVR®OPT dedicates this new line to him, realising his ideas in the Chapter collection, which focuses on lightweight comfort, echoing the principles of the original series. Sawada Yaemon wanted to maintain the concept of one, two, three, and four from his previous collection. Following discussions and recognising that his previous collection was already over a decade old, he named the models in the revival line CHAPTER 1, CHAPTER 2, and CHAPTER 3, symbolising a new chapter in his life and his creative journey. Above: CHAPTER 1 by TVR®OPT – inspired by a bestseller, the new design has elegant lines and a unique angular appearance

TVR®OPT’s Chapter 2: Lavender and Mint add a touch of novelty in a collection which is otherwise classical in all its key principles

“We come from a family of master craftsmen whose heritage dated back to the Edo period. Our family, the Yaemon, in fact is the first to perfect the iconic TVR®505 shape using traditional measurements and techniques, making this collection extra special to us.” — Sawada Yaemon

TVR®OPT: The Chapter collection – antique tortoise is highlighted in the collection for its versatility and vintage appeal

Inspired by the rich heritage of craftsmanship, the Chapter collection embodies timeless elegance, drawing from Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics and Art Deco elements. This collection marks a new era for TVR®OPT, symbolising the beginning of fresh chapters in both the company’s and the wearer’s journeys. In a nod to tradition and craftsmanship, TVR®OPT Japan reintroduces combination eyeglasses after a hiatus since the retirement of Yamada Mitsukazu in 2019. Collaborating with Sawada Yaemon and Tsubota Masato, TVR®OPT brings a fresh perspective to an inherently classic style that has come to be recognised across the globe. To find out more about the Chapter collection visit https://www.tvropt.eu and https://www.tvropt.com

About Sawada Yaemon – Sawada Yaemon is a Mastercraftsman who has been making spectacles all his life using traditional tools and machinery which date back to the 1950s. To read our interview with Sawada Yaemon and his colleague Eizo Onami, Head of Production / President at TVR®OPT Japan, visit this link: https://www.eyestylist.com/2023/07/tvr-opt-japan-an-interview-with-the-master-craftsmen/

Design & Inspiration

Silmo Preview: Diffuser Tokyo

3rd September 2024

High-quality accessories for all occasions

Diffuser Tokyo announces its return to Silmo Paris this month, with an ever wider selection of innovative minimalist accessory designs. The Japanese accessories label has become a leading provider of accessories to the most exclusive independent eyewear boutiques worldwide, given the design focus of the brand and the attention paid to fine materials and traditional craftsmanship. Their latest catalogue of products includes several cases which are ideal for daily use – produced in an elegant, smooth textured leather. Above: functional leather multi case produced in leather and available in nine colours including natural tones of dark brown and camel and brighter hues of pink and yellow

Second edition Horween leather cases by Diffuser Tokyo: a signature design by the Japanese accessories company

Diffuser also produces cases in Horween leather, the design of which has been updated to create the most elegant high-quality finish. The new version has several features including a snap button, stitching visible in the interior and a new leather lining. The design is available in several beautiful combinations including black suede/black, whisky/dark brown, Bordeaux/Black.

Leather eyewear stand with 2 compartments for frames – made in Japan

Among other highlights, Diffuser has also launched some original storage pieces this year. These design objects have a luxurious finish created for display at home or in store. They are suitable for storage of stationary and other items as well as luxury frames.

Diffuser Tokyo focuses on the importance of functionality and good design across its product line, and takes a highly selective approach to all the materials they use. The brand is committed to local production in Japan in order to be able to create long-lasting, well crafted designs that will stand the test of time. To find out more about the products at Diffuser Tokyo visit https://diffuser-tokyo.com

Design & Inspiration

First look: J. F. Rey for Silmo Paris

1st September 2024

The French brand announces a new signature concept called “Square” – showing in the Paris fair this month

The Square collection by J.F. Rey, which will preview this month at Silmo Paris, is designed to embody iconic characteristics of the J.F. Rey design style. The frames draw inspiration from the geometric constructions and coloured filters of the award-winning conceptual artist, Daniel Buren. Above: girl wears model Ruby by J.F. Rey – part of the new Square collection, previewing now

The geometric construction of the temples of the “Square” models is particular to the line: they combine elementary forms in metal and acetate, with contrasts between opaque and translucent finishes, monochromatic tones and some refined patterned acetate sections.

Ruby by J. F. Rey: the influences of Daniel Buren’s work are immediately apparent in the colour combination above – which closely reflects the colours and light effects of several of his installations in plexiglas

The sculptural feel of the designs is highlighted by means of glamorous thicknesses and graphic lines. Structural details are also visible on the fronts, offering a unique look. Iridescent colours, like those of model Scarlet (4430), accentuate the effect further for those who like their eyewear bold and full of colour contrasts and expression. For more information visit www.jfrey.fr