Opulent Optics

Denim inspired sunglass

2008-07-28T18:53:00.000-07:00

Alain Mikli, the designer who brought you shutter-shades, has collaborated with designer Lee Cooper to create these sculptural shades. The lenses are carved to look like a zip-fly and feature a denim printed frame, making this brilliant design irrefutably a fly one.

photo: high snobiety.com

Barack Rocks Ray-Ban

2008-07-07T07:14:00.000-07:00

On the cover of Ebony magazine, presidential candidate Barrack Obama epitomizes cool by stepping out in his Ray-Ban shades.

iGlasses?

2008-06-30T07:29:00.000-07:00

Myvu offers both a sunglass and 'crystal' frame which play video directly into the lenses. Equipped with ear buds that run along the temples, you can now play media through these from your ipod/iphone. Although designed with practicality in mind, these devices seem to be little more than a culmination of retro futuristic fantasies. The larger sunglass model seems to be the least conspicuous of the line.

photos: myvu.com

The Gold Standard

2008-06-17T11:32:00.000-07:00

Super recently unveiled its latest line of sunglasses featuring Carl Zeiss 24k gold lenses. The classic styles of the frames off-sets the cutting edge technology of these lenses. Sure to turn heads, these shining lenses are a must for those who like to wear their sunglasses at night.

Seeing Green

2008-06-17T10:45:00.000-07:00

For those striving to do good by our mother earth, iWood has created a luxury line of eco-sustainable wood veneer frames. Fully rx-able, these frames also boast hypo-allergenic temples. iWood's stylish frames have graced the pages of Glamour, O, Domino, Cosmo, InStyle, Vogue and TeenVogue, (just to name a few) and complement their jewelry collection. Currently their only boutique is located in Louisville, Kentucky, but check out their website and try contacting them about their green and stylish styles.

Yves Saint Laurent: Fashion Legend

2008-06-06T04:52:00.000-07:00

opulentoptics would like to pay tribute to a man whose designs have forever shaped the world of fashion. Sadly, Monsieur Laurent passed on June 1, 2008 in his Paris residence from the effects of brain cancer. He and his long-time partner Pierre Bergé whom he started the YSL house with, were joint in a civil union just days before his passing.
After saving the Christian Dior house at just 21 years old, Yves and Bergé created the YSL house. Always cutting edge as an artist and businessman, Yves' 'Rive Gauche' popularized ready-to-wear and brought trends into mainstream. Most notably his creation of 'Le Smoking' suit, a classic tuxedo suit for women is still an iconic trend today.
In 1983, Yves was the first living fashion designer to be honored with a solo exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Just a year prior to his retirement, in 2001, he was awarded the rank of Commander of the Légion d'Honneur by French president Jacques Chirac.
Truly one of fashion's most influential artists of all time, Yves Saint Laurent's memory and vision will live forever through his designs.

Opulent Optics' Pick of the Season: Chanel 5018

2008-05-19T17:51:00.000-07:00

Fashion powerhouse Chanel always maintains its classic sense of sophistication while keeping up with cutting edge style. Actually a part of their '07 collection, the 5018 style has graced some of the most fashionable faces including Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. The half-tint lens is what truly sets these sunglasses apart from all others.

Oh say Cannes you see?

2008-05-19T17:22:00.000-07:00

This season's frames are taking a backseat to stylish lenses. French film icon Catherine Deneuve opts for gradient lenses even in her small opthalmic frame. Spotted at the Cannes Film Festival, Ms. Deneuve shows her expertise in eyewear- check out her line of opthalmic frames. Get 'em

Tom Ford, We Love You

2008-04-16T16:10:00.000-07:00

On set for the upcoming film, New York, I Love You Actor Hayden Christensen keeps it cool in Tom Ford's Mackenzie sunglasses. Their black plastic frame is quintessential American style and Tom's demure horizontal T on the temple doesn't detract from the frames' classic look. Young Hollywood can't get enough of Tom's shades and neither can we!

Super Sienna

2008-04-10T20:03:00.000-07:00

From the Super site.
Sienna Miller sporting a nice pair of Super neon shades.

"Diamond Harlot" by Oliver Peoples

2008-04-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

From the Oliver Peoples 2008 Resort Spring Collection:
"DIAMOND HARLOT
Black/Gold/Diamonds with Gradient
Sensationally sexy, 70's-inspired oversized sunglass hand-crafted in round, contoured plastic and metal accents. Available in a variety of OP-exclusive colors. Oliver Peoples logo plaque discreetly laminated at temple end. 6-base lens curve and 100% UV protection. Set in 10g total weight of gold, the exclusive frame is available in three color ways; Black with 18k Yellow Gold, Ivory Shell with 14k Rose Gold, and Storm Grey with 18k White Gold and features 1.5 carats of brilliant, round cut, natural white diamonds."

We think this is one of the most successful takes on "Breakfast at Tiffany" sunglasses we've seen in a while. Bold yet elegant, with a definite touch of luxury in its use of 18/14k gold and 1.5 carats of actual diamonds!

Stick with the black colorway though, the model looses a little bit of its appeal with the ivory and storm grey options.

Wikipedia!

2008-04-10T19:40:00.001-07:00

Opulent Optics has been booming recently.

We're so glad we've become your go to place for everything opulent and everything in optics.

We also consider it a MAJOR compliment that we were recently cited in the Wikipedia entry for Shutter Shades.

Keep checking back regularly as we gear up for great sunglasses weather and continue to show you the best!

Tiki Time

2008-04-10T17:02:00.000-07:00

These sunglasses are featured at style.com and are playful aviators that are perfect for island fun.

Yikes, Stripes!

2008-04-03T22:29:00.000-07:00

Latest look in the Spring 2008 printed trend, Australian brand Ksubi (formerlly Tsubi), stripes their cream wayfarer version. Special gradient lenses add another dimension to their play on the iconic style.

Spring Fashion 2008

2008-04-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

Hot new designer Karen Walker gives the latest spin on the hybrid wayfarer and jackie-o style shades. Subverting the classic style with retro neons, Spring 2008 brings a whimsical and young aesthetic to a this iconic look.
Style.com refers to the label..

"Karen Walker, now in her third season here, has built a solid business on her singular, cheery-but-subversive brand of sartorial whimsy. To wit, she considered adding classic styles to her popular line of eyewear before deciding to just give 'em nothing but big and bold. The result: multiple reorders at Barneys. The lesson: To thine own self be true."

Further proof that Spring 2008 is all about having fun and standing out.

Diamond Supply Co. T-Shirt

2008-01-06T09:08:00.000-08:00

Diamond Supply Co. and Girl Skateboards have collaborated to produce this T-Shirt which completely captures the appeal of 50's beauty and the classic iconic status of the Wayfarer. DSC has been doing great collaborations in the past few years, and we'd LOVE to see them doing some eyewear sometime soon.

photo via: ctothejl

Zappos

2008-01-03T18:49:00.000-08:00

We just realized the other day that Zappos carries eyewear. This has been a great source in the past for footwear, especially because of their free overnight shipping and returns, but now they're a great place to look for sunglasses too. Here's the link to their eyewear page: http://www.zappos.com/eyewear.htm?ref=shopfor

We found a nice pair of this past summer's Marc by Marc Jacobs sunglasses, so its definitely a decent source.

Eye Candy Store

2008-01-03T11:22:00.000-08:00

While looking around for vintage shops in New York City, we found Eye Candy Store" which has a few pairs of pretty cool vintage sunglasses. It seems like that they typically stock are frames like these, "Playboy Sunglasses." They have pretty decent prices too.

Happy New Year!

2007-12-31T10:06:00.001-08:00

We just wanted to wish all our readers a healthy and happy new year! Expect big things from us in '08. We've got some great collaborations in the making and hope to keep showing you the best in opulent optics!
best,
Dan and Kristen

Eric Morel Cinesticker Aviators

2007-12-14T18:42:00.000-08:00

Eric Morel is a French product designer with some innovative and witty ideas. He has this product shown on his page. They're a pair of aviator sunglasses with bold horizontal gold bands which will make the wearer's field of vision like a 16/9 cinema projection. The caption suggests they'll "transform your life into a 16/9 movie," maybe because of what you'll see, but possibly because of how cool they'll make you look. Look out "Cool Hand Luke," there's a new boss in town.

Multi-Colored.

2007-12-04T13:11:00.001-08:00

Multi-colored frames are a big thing right now. More specifically, multi-colored wayfarer-type sunglasses with zany combinations are a big thing right now. Here are two pair we've recently come across. The triple-color combination definitely gives off a cali-vibe, which might be perfect for the cold months ahead.

"Phenomenon Stone Shaze Sunglasses" with rhinestones on the frame.
Check out Phenomenon's website.

"Super Retro Tripply Triple Toned" with Zeiss lenses.
Available at Caliroots for $128.43.

Corey Hart- Sunglasses At Night

2007-12-02T18:08:00.000-08:00

Classic.

Jee Whiz

2007-11-28T15:11:00.000-08:00

Jee Vice is the hottest new line of optical couture taking over Hollywood one starlet at a time. Lindsay Lohan was seen sporting their "Evil" frames last Saturday. While LiLo opts for classic black, Jee Vice frames come in bold colors and patterns, which unlike many other brands, are not dwarfed by gaudy labels and names on the temples. Instead, these frames feature tiny peacesigns and are optically equipped with high-quality Carl Zeiss lenses. Founded in France in 2003, Jee Vice has been featured in fashion magazines all over the world. You don't need to party like a rockstar to look like one, right Linds?

Supernatural Studios' Sunnies

2007-11-27T15:37:00.000-08:00

Supernatural Studio is a design firm with some amazing designs for traditional objects.

"Founded by Zissou in London in late 2004, Supernatural is a different type of creative studio. What began as a CG creative collective working on animation direction, special effects, product design and art direction, has evolved into a platform for the exploration of art, design and technology. Our commissions for the advertising, broadcast, fashion and music industries continue while producing a range of products and fine art projects."

They've got this incredible design for "Eyewear" on their site. This pair of sunglasses looks ultra-futuristic and super sleek. Notice that the frame is one piece and that there is no joint connecting the temples. They say:
"Sunglasses are an essential way of protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, but what if your eyewear could do more... watch this space."

Deeply Madly Living Celebrity Lamp

2007-11-26T11:03:00.000-08:00

This lamp by Deeply Madly Living is incredibly witty. The "Celebrity Lamp" is made of 40 pairs of mirrored aviator sunglasses, rests on a shiny stand, and uses an aviator temple as the light switch.

Its already become wildly popular, and is currently on backorder until January 2008. The Celebrity Lamp retails for $1,600.

Classic Urkel

2007-11-24T20:49:00.000-08:00

Classic Steve Urkel. Urkel on Full House giving Stephanie advice on her new glasses.

Did I do thaaaat?

Love at First Sight

2007-11-20T08:26:00.000-08:00

These special glasses display rainbow hearts when looking around any light source. For a romantic dinner, a candle is conveniently provided in this kit. Not recommended for a first date, but Urban Outfitters proves you're never too old for a little holographic fun.

Kate Spade Sunglasses

2007-11-19T12:15:00.000-08:00

Traditionally a handbag maker, Kate Spade has been branching out into the realm of eyewear recently. Their sunglasses bring exactly what you would imagine they would. They are an ideal compliment to the rest of the company's simple and sophisticated products. Check out their sunglasses page here.

Also notable is the Kate Spade sunglasses hat.
This witty design features the embroidered illusion of a pair of sunglasses similar to their Aiden model resting on the head of the wearer of this wool winter hat.
This product is made as part of the company's "Women for Women International" initiative, which "helps women in war-torn regions rebuild their lives... this product has been carefully handcrafted by a woman in bosnia and herzegovina. your purchase is directly supporting a woman as she rebuilds her life, family, and community."

Sabre's Poolside Green For The Closet's Anniversary

2007-11-06T15:11:00.000-08:00

Sabre has released a limited run of their Poolside model in a bright green colorway to celebrate Southern Californian retailer The Closet’s 15th year anniversary. This shade of green which has been The Closet's traditional color is inbetween a lime green and a neon green and is really right on the money. Expect this limited series to go quick.

Shutter Shades

2007-11-01T19:05:00.000-07:00

We posted back during the summer about Kanye West's custom Alain Mikli louvered blind shadded sunglasses. Basically put, these things were all the rage this late summer/early fall.

Now (if you're still into them) you can finally get a pair that won't cost you a fortune. They're available in Red, Green, Purple, Black, Blue and White for only $24.99 at shuttershadesonline.com

High Snobiety's review of Mosley Tribes

2007-10-28T00:31:00.000-07:00

High Snobiety (A great streetwear blog you should check out if you don't already go there regularly) did a great job writing up the new Mosley Tribes Spring and Summer 2008 line, so we figured we'd just post it in as is.

Mosley Tribes S/S '08 & Much More:

Mosley Tribes is definitely one of the most interesting brands in the sunglass market to watch. Launched by the same people that also created the probably most respected sunglass brand in the market, Oliver Peoples, you can be sure that Mosley Tribes knows the field and delivers quality. Actually Mosely Tribes sees itself more like a lifestyle brand than a regular sunglass brand, which is also reflected in their line-up and collaborations. Inspirations for each season are derived from sport culture, street luxury and iconic style.

Here we present you the Mosley Tribes Spring/Summer 2008 collection, as well as some interesting collaborations the brand has been part of. The S/S '08 collection offers a set of classic sunglasses with a modern twist - perfect chemistry. Make sure to keep your eyes open for the Spring/Summer 2008 Resort collection.

Now we come to the part that makes Mosley Tribes a lifestyle brand. Already presented to you by us this summer is the Mosley Tribes x Maharishi collaboration. The sunglasses that came out of the collaboration perfectly reflect the military style of Maharishi. The temples are covered in Maharishi DPM Bonsai Forest camouflage and the sunglasses come with three interchangeable lenses and a matching camouflage case. Something to look out for.

Last but not least Mosley Tribes has teamed up with New Era on a collaboration on the iconic 5950 cap. Furthermore they got together with SE Racing to make a customized fixed gear bike. How many sunglass brand do you know that have done that? Exactly!

Enough talking now, check out the Mosley Tribes Resort Spring/Summer 2008 collection, Maharishi collaboration, New Era cap and SE Racing Fixed Gear bike after the jump.

Bring on the Bling

2007-10-27T09:00:00.001-07:00

Gwen Stefani rocks Dior's ultra-reflective 'Grand Salon' shield sunglasses. With these mirrored and crystalized temples her son Kingston can check his hair! photo:http://omg.yahoo.com/

photos: themagnificentmile.com

Trainer Spotter

2007-10-22T19:27:00.000-07:00

U.K. vintage-inspired vendor Trainer Spotter has released two new colorways of their popular sunglasses. Here are the four color combinations they now come in:

Tokyo- MULTI COLOUR.

New York City- BLACK/WHITE/GREY.

London- WHITE/GREY/BLACK.

Los Angeles- RED TORTOISE-SHELL.

The description from their website reads:
"Slick 1980’s Tokyo (Los Angeles, New York City, London) inspired B-Boy shades with black lenses. Complete with Palm Print Microfibre bag."

At ₤25 (about $50) These stunner shades are a pretty good deal, stock up and maybe save for when spring comes around. We could easily see the Tokyo candy-colored version as a major hit for that time of year.

wowzers, new sabre zebra

2007-10-11T08:22:00.001-07:00

Sabre just released their model "The Dude" in a new zebra-striped colorway (the 5th that this model is available in). Available through Karmaloop.com and Krudmart.com this crazy new styling on their sunglasses which sort of resemble classic ray-ban wayfarer styling are sure to be a hit for anyone who appreciates opulent eyewear. We think the zebra pattern is going to be a huge hit.

perez sez

2007-10-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

Straight from Perezhilton.com:
"We Applaud The Effort, But…
Filed under: Anglophilia > Kimberly Stewart

The glasses are a bit much, no????
Well, she does have a new TV show coming out in the U.K. Gotta do whatever it takes to promote it!
An uncharacteristically prim and proper Kimberly Stewart presents ‘Spectacle Wearer’ of the Year award at the Waldorf Hotel in London on Tuesday.
Nice hair, though!
[Photo via Getty Images.]
Posted: October 9, 2007 at 10:12 am"

Agree?

Inqmnd Buyers Buyble

2007-10-09T12:36:00.000-07:00

The Canadian streetwear magazine Inquiringmind has released its "Inqmnd Fall 07 Buyers Buyble."

We've perused its pages and come across two items in particular to call your attention to:
IS Design Belvedere Sunglasses
Available at: Three Sixty Board Shop
$55 (we're guessing thats Canadian dollars)

Brigada Pastore Sunglasses
Available at:Brooklyn Projects
$80

New York, New York.

2007-10-07T13:33:00.000-07:00

If you're around New York City and looking for some vintage eyewear, we've come across some nice sources for you.

Fabulous Fanny's
This vintage shop in the east village is one of the best places on the east coast for vintage eyewear. They've got a great selection of vintage men's and women's frames, as well as a good selection of sunglasses and antique eyewear. They also rent to the film industry and for photoshoots, and their eyewear has been featured in "The American Gangster," "Capote" and "Night at the Museum." Also, check out their jewlery and vintage clothing.
Check out their catalog online or drop by the shop:
335 E 9th St
(between 1st Ave & 2nd Ave)
New York, NY 10003 (212) 533-0637

Sarita at the Greenflea Flea Market and East 67th Street Market
Although she doesn't have a website or store, Sarita, a kind eyewear enthusiast has a booth at the East 67th Street Market on Saturdays and the Greenflea Flea Market on Columbus Ave. on Sundays. She's got a decent selection of deadstock vintage frames, and some nice sunglasses as well. She does a great job helping visitors pick out frames, and unlike many vintage sellers, can put in prescription lenses for you as well.
She can typically be located in the back right of the Greenflea Flea Market located at 410 Columbus Ave. (at West 76th St.), New York City on Sundays year round (she's there down to 32 degrees in the winter she says)
and at the East 67th Street Market located at P.S. 183 - East 66th and East 67th Streets between 1st and York Avenues.

Glasses Stickers.

2007-10-03T20:30:00.000-07:00

Ugly Home is a Parisian boutique and line of home decorations that are unique and witty. We came across their "Lunettes" stickers and couldn't help but feature them here. They are designed as part of their Munchausen collection and are 17cm X 17cm and come in black or silver. What a great way for the optical enthusiast to decorate their setting!

Hairglasses?

2007-09-30T10:57:00.001-07:00

The japanese brand takumi presented their designs at the idea stand. Though its not necessarily optical, we couldn't help feature their 'hairglasses' headbands. White or black sunglass inspired headbands to replace the sunglasses you're using to hold back your hair.

Jason Schwartzman with Natalie Portman

2007-09-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

From Perez Hilton: "Two of our faves, Natalie Portman and Jason Schwartzman looked cool as cucumbers at the premiere of their new short film, Hotel Chevalier, Tuesday night at the Apple Store in NYC."
This other film by Wes Anderson will be released on the DVD of The Darjeeling Limited which opens this week.

Here, Schwartzman looks great sporting a pair of gold round-framed glasses which go great with his outfit and classic Adidas Rod Laver sneakers he was wearing. Also, throughout The Darjeeling Limited Adrien Brody wears a big pair of square-framed sunglasses with lightly tinted lenses. Looks like the cast of this new hit film is quite an optical group!

Vote for Opulent Optics!

2007-09-25T08:04:00.000-07:00

Things have been going great with the blog. Sunglasses and Fashion Eyewear are our passion and we're so glad we can be who you turn to for all things Optical and all things Opulent.

If you dig what we've been doing, keep checking back regularly for latest updates, or subscribe to our RSS feed

or feel free to vote for us at BLOGTOPLIST,

or even better, nominate us for a BLOGGER'S CHOICE AWARD!

Uma Thurman and Paris Hilton in Chrome Hearts

2007-09-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

photo: imnotobsessed

Uma Thurman has moved on from her days as the face of Louis Vuitton. The actress was seen looking chic in NYC's Central Park in Chrome Hearts "Elixer" Sunglasses, a much edgier line known for their signature silver gothic details, namely crosses, are available at their boutiques. Manufactured by the Optical Shop of Apsen, their flagship boutique is located on the East side. Uma wears the Elixer model in black color.

Model: "Elixer" Color: horn photos: brownsfashion.

Paris Hilton looking motorcycle-chic in Chrome Hearts "Queenie" sunglasses at Toronto International Airport. The larger lens fits this diva's ego and matches her new choppy tough-girl hairstyle.

photo: celebrity-gossip

Miss Hilton wears the tortoise with lime green.

Christopher Kane and Linda Farrow Vintage

2007-09-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

Linda Farrow Vintage teams up with hot new designer Christopher Kane in a hot line of sunglasses furbished with over-sized faux gems and gradient lenses that are both glamourous and young.
Christopher Kane debuted his collection, Expectations superceeding expectations set on this 24 year old Scottish designer named the “New Scottish Designer of the Year”. Kane managed to make an impression with A-listers and celebrities.

New Sabre Psychotic Reaction Sunglasses

2007-09-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

Here's a first look at Sabre's Psychotic Reaction Sunglasses:

We wrote a ways back about the maker and some of their other models, but this is by far our favorite yet. They're pretty out there, but simple and to the point. Plus, they really look great in the red colorway. The new Sabre's will be released internationally next week.

Rock and Republic Sunglasses

2007-09-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

CEO and head designer Michael Ball of Rock and Republic has been gaining ground in the eyewear industry since they launched in 2002. There sunglasses are well designed, very exclusive, and being spotted on celebrities more and more.

This is the Maverick model. This model as well as the Apache model are especially flashy and something fresh in the industry.

The FBI Wants You To Take Off Your Sunglasses.

2007-09-15T11:49:00.000-07:00

The FBI and Washington State lawmakers are working on legislation which would forbid banks to do business with customers wearing sunglasses in a bank. As an effort to combat bank robberies this legislation would also prohibit hats and hoods worn during transactions.

interesting...
read more about it here.

New Kanye Video for "Good Life" With Some Crazy Sunglasses

2007-09-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

So many people have been coming to this blog to check out the latest in Kanye West's eyewear trendsetting for us to not give this a little write-up. Kanye's new video for "Good Life" (featuring T-Pain) came out today and is visually stunning. Completely in line with the fashion sense Kanye is putting forward, the video features lots of acid colors and neons. Of course, our favorite moment is when he takes out his aviator sunglasses and the illustrations illuminate the frames.
Give it a watch: here

Seeing Double?

2007-09-11T18:18:00.001-07:00

Dolce & Gabbana's sunglasses have been all the rage Summer 2007. Supermodel Gisele Bündchen was spotted in their 6016 model in black and Kelly Ripa was seen with son Joaquin in NYC's Central Park sporting the same model in tortoise. Both bombshells rock these classic rectangular shades with a rather modest frame depth in comparison to the cheekbone-touching large frames also popular this season. The demure DG on the temple also contrasts other frames in Dolce & Gabbana's collection which don their logo large enough to be visible from the Hubble Telescope.

Ed Hardy Release

2007-09-11T17:35:00.000-07:00

Ed Hardy has unveiled his sunglass line which combines elements of his popular tattoo-artist designs. Hardy incorporates metals, leather and genuine Swarovski® crystals for a set of shades that are pure attitude.

Ed Hardy style 003 and Koi Fish

Kanye West at MTV VMAs

2007-09-11T07:19:00.000-07:00

Lots of visitors to this blog have been coming in search of more info about those Kanye West louvered shade sunglasses and his Jeremy Scott signature sunglasses too. Kanye performed Sunday at the MTV Video Music Awards at "Kanye West's Good Life Fantasy Suite" at the Palms in Las Vegas.

Kanye was sporting an all black and white tuxedo ensemble with matching leather gloves, sneakers (AF1), and a white pair of Super Sunglasses. These marvelously designed Italian sunnies are a well-crafted update the Ray-Ban wayfarer style, a model we've discussed at length here. Kanye opted for darker lenses to match his tuxedo, in our opinion a great match.

For everyone who's been trying to get their hands on a pair of those shades Kanye has been hyping up ever since his "Stronger" video, he handed out pairs to most of the audience at the show so you can expect to find some pairs on ebay soon enough.
check out Kanye's performance here.

Tse Tse and Original Fake

2007-09-09T17:33:00.000-07:00

Japanese eyewear company Tse Tse has collaborated with streetwear company OriginalFake to produce a great pair of glasses.

They were designed by Brooklyn artist KAWS, who blogs here. The all-over embossed "x" pattern frames come in a choice of black or transparent gray, and are available on Colette's We Sold Out! for €440.

L.A.M.B. Spring 2008

2007-09-09T15:04:00.000-07:00

Gwen Stefani's fashion label L.A.M.B. showed their spring 2008 line in New York City for Fashion Week.

This ensemble showcases the sunglasses shown with multiple outfits in show. Expected to be released in L.A.M.B.'s spring line, they resemble the white Ray-Ban Wayfarers discussed here. To their credit, L.A.M.B.'s pair has much darker lenses as opposed to the green tint of the Wayfarer. This solid black lens with a slightly more cat-eye shape makes the L.A.M.B. sunglasses perfect for the California look Stefani has been trying to achieve, and the black and white contrasting look she has been consistently showing of late.

While reception of Stefani's clothes by critics has been mixed in the past, public reception has been enthusiastic. If L.A.M.B. does begin to sell an eyewear line, check back here for reviews and the latest news.

For The Wild at Heart...

2007-09-08T08:14:00.000-07:00

Historically a staple in both house's collections, Chanel and Prada incorporate leather in the form of snakeskin into their eyewear lines. While Prada boldly covers their thick plastic frames, Chanel opts only to detail the temples of their aviators in the luxury leather.

For those bored of imitation tortoise shell and horn patterns, götti eyewear handcrafts genuine natural horn into their classic designs including full and semi-rimmed styles. All polished by hand, götti's horn frames are veritably the finest horn frames on the market.

Badgley Mischka Spring 2008

2007-09-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

Badgley Mischka showed their Spring 2008 line including eyewear this afternoon. Here are two of our fav0rite pieces.

1.)Badgley Mischka showed an updated version of the classic cat-eye as worn by stars like Tina Fey of Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock. This season the look is more goggle-like resembling a mask or the sheild with a deeper lens the look is a combination of popular styles in other eyewear lines such as Dolce and Gabbana's sheild-like drill-mount and increased lens depth, yet retains the angles of the retro/classic american cat-eye.

2.)
Also shown were Jackie O-esque round sunglasses, in sharp contrast to their angular designs. The round look is more soft and feminine and a direct reference to Onassis, herself as an American style icon. The designers also did a perfect job chosing this model to show their new sunglasses, as they compliment her heart-shaped face perfectly.

Samuel L. Jackson, Santana, Philip Johnson and I.M. Pei

2007-09-06T11:58:00.001-07:00

Samuel L. Jackson was photographed at the Fashion Rocks Santana concert and shown inthis NY Magazine article wearing the pair of eyeglasses seen above.

These thick, round-framed glasses are strikingly similar to the type of eyewear the influential American architect Philip Johnson used to wear, or those that the Chinese American architect I.M. Pei wears. Is Jackson maybe trying to brand himself as an architect or designer-type?

Badgley Mischka Spring 2008 Collection Tomorrow

2007-09-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Mark Badgley and James Mischka, both Parson's graduates, started working together and launched their company in 1988. Since then they have been doing great things both in clothing and in fashionable eyewear.

Their show is tomorrow, Thursday the 5th of September at 2pm at the Tent at Bryant Park.

After that, look for their new line at Saks Fifth Avenue or Bergdorf Goodman, or either of their boutiques in Beverly Hills and Boston.

Fashion Week New York City

2007-09-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

This week is Fashion Week in New York City. Designers will be showing their Spring 2008 collections. That means eyewear and sunglasses will be on the runways.

Here are some of tomorrow's highlights; look for eyewear to be showcased at the following shows.
Nautica 9am Bryant Park, the Salon
Perry Ellis 11am Bryant Park, the Tent
L.A.M.B 8pm Bryant Park, the Tent
Tommy Hilfiger 9pm Museum of Modern Art, 11 W. 53rd St., nr. Fifth Ave.

Check back here each day during Fashion Week for a uniquely optical point of view with updates and analysis.

Oliver Goldsmith Custom Eyewear

2007-09-03T19:20:00.000-07:00

The British eyewear company Oliver Goldsmith, widely considered one of the founders of the concept of fashion eyewear, has been designing eyewear since the 1920's.

With as much of a stock of past designs as that, and their widespread sucess in fashion since the 60's, Oliver Goldsmith has an interesting current approach to manufacture of its eyewear.

They sell many ready to wear editions of their previously designed pieces, such as this "Eddy" model, originally created in 1969 and was favored by Peter Sellers.

One interesting option available, for truly unique eyewear, is to visit their Notting Hill showroom. Here Oliver Goldsmith's has a service starting around £230 that allows clients to pick from any past design in their archive, and customize it with choices of frame material and lens color. Each pair is then handcrafted and fitted to the clients specifications, "this is bespoke at its best."

Cazal's 858 Vintage

2007-09-02T15:31:00.000-07:00

Cazal relaunched their vintage model "Cazal 858" with help from some of the most reveared Japanese companies in the fashion business. The model has an interesting asymmetrical look and is an angular take on a shield or aviator stunner sunglasses look.

Those temples might have been an influence on the Claw Money Gazelle aviator sunglasses we saw earlier this summer.

Each of the four different companies incharge of distribution carries a unique color, and each edition is limited.

Col. 251/252 is with Tric Trac Plus Funky One
Col. 252 is with Liquor Woman and Tears
Col. 253 is with C-C Country
Col. 255 is with Swagger and Phenomenon who have had some other great eyewear colaborations in the past.

Jack's Eyewear Los Angeles

2007-09-01T19:52:00.000-07:00

Jack's Eyewear in Los Angeles is an excellent place to pick up a pair of vintage sunglasses. The shop is in the Mid-City West neighborhood of LA, and carries about 2,000 pairs of vintage sunglasses and glasses.

Its owner Jack Bernstein is an expert on vintage eyewear and the shop reflects this expertise. It carries; antique glasses dating back to the 18th century, some amazing multi-colored Casels (Gwen Stefani picked out a pair to wear on her album cover), great thick rimmed 1960's Persols, Ray-Bans, eyewear by Dior, Dunhill, Playboy, among others, and selection of Porsche Design original 6522 aviators (handcrafted by Carrera in its Austrian workrooms). They also carry a small collection from Oliver Peoples.

Their website isn't yet full launched, but is anxiously awaited by those who can't make it out to L.A. to see the great stuff Jack's store has in stock.

Address: 120 S. La Brea Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90036 Tel: 3239331402 Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-7pm; Sun 12pm-7pm

Ray-Ban Wayfarers

2007-08-31T19:57:00.001-07:00

Let's talk a bit about a classic pair of sunglasses. The Ray-Ban Wayfarer was introduced by Bausch & Lomb in 1952 and was an instant sucess has been a style icon ever since. The shape and design of the sunglasses took advantage of recent advances in plastic technology and represented a bold contemporary style. With celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Kim Novak publicily wearing the Wayfarer in the 50's, Audrey Hepburn wearing them in "Breakfast at Tiffany's," and icons like Bob Dylan, Andy Warhol, Roy Orbison, and JFK wearing them these sunglasses became a classic.

The Wayfarer then had a resurgence and a huge rise in sales in the early 1980's with key product placement in cult classic films such as "The Blues Brothers" and "Risky Business."

In recent years, the Wayfarers have been re-released by Ray-Ban and have been a huge sucess, largely due to celebrities like Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Sienna Miller, Kirsten Dunst, Chloe Sevigny, and Lindsay Lohan wearing them in paparazzi photos all over the gossip blogs.

But what are the differences between these various generations and incarnations of these classic sunglasses?

The vintage B&L Wayfarer's were the 5022 model. This number was imprinted on the inside of the temples or inside above the lens. The lenses are tinted green and have an etched "B L" logo on the outside of each lens.

The Ray-Ban Wayfarers of the 2000's are slightly flatter and are have the model number 2140. This is imprinted on the inside of the temple. They also have a script Ray-Ban emblem on the lens and on the outside of the temples a feature on some of the earlier models but not all, especially those from the 80's era. These also come in many more color combinations, some a little crazier and bold than others.

There are also other models of the Wayfarer, including the 2039 model, which is a folding version of the Wayfarer.

For some more models and editions of the classic wayfarer, this japanese sight has a bunch of great photos.
http://www3.tokai.or.jp/aihikino/wayfarer-50.htm

More Kanye West, Jeremy Scott

2007-08-30T22:13:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month we posted about Kanye West's louvered shade sunglasses that were getting all the attention. But we've got an update and a new angle on the issue that no one's really presented yet.

He's wearing 2 different pairs of sunglasses in the Stronger video right? check out around the 1:54 mark and look out for these:

These are the signature series sunglasses that Jeremy Scott designed for the summer 2006 Linda Farrow Vintage eyewear collection. They were available for a while at Colette in Paris for €225, but its doubtful you can find them anymore. Kanye's got a thing for unique frames, and these are pretty bold. But he's equally adept at picking eyewear that's hard to come by these days.

Update:
Look what Mr. West is wearing in the Itunes photo for his new album. These sunglasses are getting even more publicity.

Ebay Alert

2007-08-29T20:02:00.000-07:00

Came across these on Ebay and thought it would be cool to share them with our readers.

The seller describes them as "Vintage White plastic frame sunglasses with lizard skin details on the sides. Comes with Green gradient lenses. Size is 57mm (across each lens), 12mm (across the nose bridge) and 125mm (length of the arm)."

We love the chunky white frames, the green gradient lenses, and the snake skin addition makes them killer.

Disclaimer: We're not the ones selling these sunglasses, nor are we reaping any profit from their sale. As with the rest of the items we feature on this blog, we just think these are interesting and our readership might be interested in them.

With that said, if you'd like to see the auction and maybe bid, here's the link:
Vintage White Plastic Frame Sunglasses With Lizard Skin Ebay Auction

ProDesign Denmark

2007-08-28T21:07:00.000-07:00

Here's a Danish eyewear designer with a flare for well designed, very angular modern looking eyewear.
ProDesign is headquartered in Denmark and brings a Northern European approach to design and eyewear. This is the type of eyewear perfect for those in the design or architecture field or who are forward thinking when it comes to well designed objects.

ProDesign 4113 shown in color 4021 - Matt Medium Red, size 52¤19

ProDesign 5101 shown in color 6031- Matt Dark Black, size 51¤18, part of their "Iris" collection which has been recently garnering design award nominations.

Ralph Lauren Polo, Marc Jacobs, Isoceles Trapezoids.

2007-08-27T18:21:00.000-07:00

Presented for your consideration:
There seems to be a striking similarity between these two plastic framed aviators. Most noticably through the bridge where both models feature a near isocoles trapezoid cut-out.

The Marc Jacobs MJ012/S, which may be listed on the site a only available in "Black Leopard" but which is at the Barney's Co-op store in a few other colors as well.

The Ralph Lauren Polo 4011, shown here in tortise with green lenses, but probably a more stylish choice in black with grey lenses.

If you're into chunky plastic framed aviators then you've got two nice ones to pick from here. If you're into isosoles trapezoids too then you're in heaven. These two are pretty similarly priced (a little under $200); its up to your tastes which you prefer.

Sabre

2007-08-23T17:18:00.000-07:00

The brand Sabre out of California has really been doing things right. Above is their "Sunday" model, which is nice and simple with a good attention paid to details. Not to mention that V is pretty hot too.

The "Crue" sunglasses are a nice end of the summer eyewear, but still with that stunner aviator look, and really benefit from their simplicity. Frame colors are almost exclusively black/white with the ocassional blue gel accent, but these are nice lightweight shades for skate or surf or all activities california and summer.

Claw Money

2007-08-23T14:39:00.001-07:00

Claw Money and WEST FC from PNB + AND SUNS "Gazelle" sunglasses are throwback to days when Claw was still a griffiti artist and B-boy's wore the kind of head-turning aviators that inspired these.

These are definitely one of the top pairs of sunglasses this summer, but the temples might just be a little too much and almost gaudy. There is something to be said for simplicity in the temples of such bold eyewear.

Super Caliroots

2007-08-21T22:22:00.001-07:00

Super has released a special preview of its “Flat Top” model for the third anniversary of Caliroots. This purple edition is limited to an individually numbered 50 pairs. They go on sale today Wednesday Aug 22. At 12pm European time in store (Stockholm) and 3pm European time online.

These and the rest of Super’s eyewear are hand-made in Italy and feature Carl Zeiss lenses.

If you aren’t able to get a purple pair, look for more colors and combinations of these sunglasses in shops January 2008, or check out the rest of Super’s collection, which seems largely inspired by the classic Ray-Ban Wayfarers.

RE-SPEC-T

2007-08-21T17:38:00.000-07:00

So, everyone has been talking about Kanye West’s new sunglasses by Alain Mikli. They were first shown in the video for his latest single “Stronger.”

They’ve also recently made quite a few public appearances, and incited quite a public demand for these unique shades.
Kanye and his entourage showin’ the shades ‘round town in London.

Princes William and Harry would love to get their hands on these.

Designer Jeremy Scott created these louvered sunglasses with a typical flair for the bold/kitsch/80’s. Kanye claims these slit style shades are from Paris and that he spent three months searching for them. He also plans on remaking these eye-catchers for his soon to be released clothing line “Pastelle.”

As much as Kanye is trying to create new trends when it comes to music, fashion, and eyewear, this is one he can’t take complete credit for. These types of shades have been around since at least the mid 80’s. The resurgence of louvered shade eyewear has indeed been encouraged by Kanye, but demonstrates once again the current demand for all things 80’s.

Also check out louvered eyewear (at the 2:47 mark) in Animotion’s 1985 Video for “Obsession,”

or this interesting patent from ’88 for louvered glasses with simultaneously tilting blinds.

Millionaires

2007-08-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

Louis Vuitton has re-released their “Millionaire” sunglasses. Designed by Nigo (A Bathing Ape) and Pharrell (Billionaire Boys Club), they come in Light Blue, Purple, and Black. But good luck getting your hands on them, they’ve been going as quickly as when they were first released.

Check out Cliff Edge or a Louis Vuitton store to see if there are any left.

Opulent Optics Launch

2007-08-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Opulent Optics!