Rhianna: 2017 Highlights

2017 Highlights

Everyone stop what you’re doing - put down the mince pies… and the mulled wine and get ready to welcome the 2018 New Year!! As most people are cheering on ‘out with the old and in with the new” I thought it’d be a great opportunity to reflect back on just a handful of the amazing pieces that dropped in 2017 that will continue on into the new year.

CHANEL - BUTTERFLY RUN WAY

Chanel Butterfly Runway

Bold and beautiful. Chanel really turned heads with this unique piece. The Chanel Butterfly is made up of its statement shape, 8 different contrasting colour ways and all featuring 18karat gold lenses. This screams elegance, class and luxury all in one.

JIMMY CHOO – LASH/S

Jimmy Choo Lash/S

It’s all in the detail! Mix and match your ‘eyebrows’ with the Jimmy Choo Lash/s. This innovative design features two different pairs of detachable ‘eyebrows’ with each piece - switch it up depending on your mood or outfit. A definite must in every eyewear-addict’s collection.

DIOR - POP 

Dior Pop

The perfect Pop of colour! Simple, yet extremely effective the Dior Pop is all lens with a quirky twist - a personal favourite of mine. This piece is giving me major 70’s vibes with its lightly tinted lenses featured in pink, purple, yellow and blue. The Pop was heavily featured in magazines and even in a music video. If you haven’t already seen it please feel free to check out Dua Lipa – New Rules music video.

TOM FORD - JACQUELIN

Tom Ford Jacquelin

Way ahead of it’s time; The Jacquelyn is super oversized and stylish. If you’ve read my previous blog (which I know you most definitely have) you will already  know large metal frames are key trends going into the new year. The mirrored lenses are an obvious crowd pleaser but the large cat-eye shape is the headliner for me.

I think 2017 has been an amazing year for colour and design and I‘m so excited to see what the New Year brings - and not just in our eyewear. Wishing you all the best going into the New Year and I look forward to seeing you in store very soon!!!

Emma: NEW YEAR.NEW EYEWEAR.

It’s that time again and it’s hard to believe we only have 10 days left of 2017 and what a year it has been. Working in Optics has really opened my eyes (pardon the pun!!), but seriously, it has DEFINITELY opened my eyes to how important your eye health really is. Here are 3 New Year’s resolutions that everyone should follow, whether you wear glasses or not.

1.    Look after your eyes.

After all we all get one set of eyes and they are one of the most important senses of the human body. Many people set resolutions to lose weight or exercise more but do not forget your eyes. Sight tests do not just clarify whether or not you need glasses, but can detect many problems with your health before you receive any symptoms. Get your eyes checked! Get your children’s eyes checked and make sure you rest those peepers.

2.    Be Yourself.

The most important resolution in my opinion. This doesn’t just relate to your eyes but with everything you do. For me, glasses are an everyday necessity; there isn’t anything in my wardrobe other than glasses that I keep on all day, every day. Dress and accessorise your look with a ‘who cares’ attitude and confidence and don’t be afraid to make a statement with your glasses. Spend less time worrying about cleaning your lenses (as Nikon have a dirt and grease repellent coating) and spend more time enjoying them!

My personal faves for the winter season.

Chanel Tweed

As Tweed is one of Chanel’s key materials to use, we now have this oversized square pilot optical frame which is Chanel’s newest take on tweed, known as the ‘boyfriend tweed’. It is a look of tweed by using imprinted metal across the top of the frame on the double bridge and also made with acetate. It has the classic CC logo on the sides of the frame to keep it as minimal yet effective as possible.

3. The Power Of Sunglasses

Not only are sunglasses everyone’s number one accessory but they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Why are sunglasses just considered for summer? They are needed all year round, the sun comes out every day as much as we don’t notice that.. If you're not daring enough with your optical glasses, then be daring with your sunglasses! They instantly make any outfit look cooler.

Throwing it back with the DiorLia, the classic 70’s inspired aviator style with a modern twist. With the classic CD logo on the sides taking it back to Dior’s roots.  The gradient colours running through the frame making it different from all the rest, however using versatile colours such as brown, green and grey that will go with every day looks. As proven the Dior Lia will upgrade your outfit to another level as it’s bold yet with subtle colours.

DiorGaia and DiorBianca are also from the same collection offering the gradient colours with a transparent effect but in different shapes but all being the oversized sunglass of the season.

Update your style in 2018, try new things and make statements. Life is for living so do that wearing our amazing eyewear, as it is after all... #allabouttheeyewear

Thank you

Jon: Frames for Film

Here at Eyesite we love diversity. We love everyone's different style, fashion insight and interpretations of what's on trend. Our Eyewear Stylist Jon gives an insight into iconic eyewear on film:

Frames for Film - Iconic eyewear on film.

Choosing frames for some is simply a necessity, its purely practical and together with a prescription enables a person to view the world a little clearer. However, if we dig a little deeper we often find there is more to the story. Each individual’s eyewear choice can say so much more about a person's taste, personality and persona than perhaps they think.

In styling ourselves the way we do we are telling a kind of story, the narrative doesn't even have to be real or true but it can be a fun process! Our frames can be an extension of who we are and how we want to be viewed. Fun or serious, professional or casual, each are relevant and not necessarily exclusive, how we want to be perceived is the interesting bit. Frames can be an afterthought for some but done right can tell someone a great deal, without a person even having to speak a word.

With all this in mind I started to think about my favourite films the iconic characters in them and their iconic frames choices. We are massively fortunate at Eyesite to stock some truly unique pieces of eyewear some of which are echoed in the following movies.

Leon the professional.  

Directed by Luc Besson starring Jean Reno and Natalie Portman. Reno portrays a professional hitman who makes an unlikely bond with a young orphan who eventually becomes his protege. Jean Reno character is easily one of the most iconic antihero of all time. His effortless, somewhat minimal style in this movie has been copied a thousand times over. You can even see the likes musicians like Skepta mirroring something Jean nailed in '94. The strength of this look never fails and most importantly Jeans iconic round sunglasses have undoubtedly stood the test of time.

For this fit in mind look no further than Dior Homme metal, Garret Leight or a Cutler and Gross in clear. Or if your going the extra mile ask about getting a Giorgio Armani Optical glazed as a sunglass.

American Psycho.

Shortly after the time of its release American Psycho quickly became a critical and finical flop. But since its release in 2000 it has gone on the become one of the biggest cult classics and widely quoted movies ever. Based on the book by Bret Easton Ellis staring Christian Bale this black comedy tells the story of a wall street banker on the verge of complete mental breakdown. Christian’s sharp suited attire and a penchant for Oliver Peoples glasses is still inspiring people today.

Try Oliver Peoples obviously, ideally in tortoise shell. But don't forget we stock Garrett Leight (Oliver Peoples founder, Larry Leight's son) and Tom Ford respectively if your looking for that sophisticated NY boardroom look.

The Lost Boys.

Last but not least I've chosen The Lost Boys by Joel Schumacher this 80's cult horror classic starring child superstars Corey Haim and Corey Filedman and not forgetting Kiefer Sutherland has everything. It has just the right amount of 80's punk and New wave matched with a So Cal coolness that made me want to move to the US after the first viewing.

Look out for classic Rayban Clubmasters and offerings from Persol. For a more luxury contemporary twist try Dita System One or Nomad.

My advice, be in your own movie, stand out from the crowd and don't be afraid to show us your story.

Rhianna: F is for FENDI

Here at Eyesite we love diversity. We love everyone's different style, fashion insight and interpretations of what's on trend. Our Eyewear Stylist Rhianna gives an insight into her favourite eyewear for Autumn/Winter '17:

Fendi is world renowned for their fun and bold designs, and this autumn/winter is exactly that. This seasons campaign is called "F en Folie" which is a reference to their playful and unexpected designs which will feature - they’ve even gone as far as to create an all-new face logo which displays the circular F.

Available in a variety of different shades, the sophisticated sunglasses reveal the versatile and fun side of the Maison's new F is FENDI logo. Discover more on: www.fendi.com Directed by CYCY Sanders

My favourite piece of the collection is The Fendi Run Away sunglasses. The design is constructed of its bold, oversized, circular lenses with very fine metal sides and a double bridge - TOP TIP: keep a look out for large metal designs because they are a key trend across the catwalks this autumn/winter. The over exaggerated round shape of the sunglasses is what gives this piece it’s Fendi identity. The use of bold shapes and bright colours are key ingredients into making a Fendi design.

FENDI Run Away

This season we are seeing a come back of large brand logos, which was featured throughout the early 00’s. An example of this is the Dior Overshine, frequently worn by Paris Hilton paired with her pink velour Juicy Couture tracksuit – an early 2000’s staple. Fendi, Dior and Givenchy, to name a few, are heavily displaying this trend in their designs. Not forgetting the most iconic accessory of 2017: The double G Gucci belt. Every VIP has been pictured wearing it and every fashion blogger has to have it

Dior Overshine

Which brings me nicely back to the Fendi Run Away. Keeping in suit the front lenses feature a large stamped F logo covering the front entire lens. The logo is then mirrored to make the sunglasses pop even more, this has Fendi written all over it– literally.

I believe what makes these tone-on-tone sunglasses unique is how the frame extends above the surface area of the lens giving them an outline effect for extra definition, once again proving to me why I love these over-sized sunnies so much! A colour for every occasion this piece features five fun colour ways: red, brown, pink, blue and black. So the question is; which colour will we see you rocking this Autumn/Winter?

Emma: Behind the Scenes at NIKON

Here at Eyesite we love diversity. We love everyone's different style, fashion insight and interpretations of what's on trend. Our Eyewear Stylist Emma went on an exclusive tour around the Nikon factory:

#mynikonworld – My day at Nikon

This week I have been very fortunate to have been offered the chance to go to the UK’s only Nikon Lab! I was asked to write a blog and my initial feeling were “oh my god”. I had a thousand ideas and concerns running through my head, but at the end of the day I am me, and I work for Eyesite and I want to share my amazing day with Nikon. So here goes...

Nikons UK Head office and lab is based in Milton Keynes and I went with Val who works at our Beverley branch.

I learnt about the history of Nikon and how “light is the essence of the company”. It inspires everything in creation, whether it be with lenses, medical equipment (Optos), cameras or even binoculars. Nikon have achieved so much since opening in 1917 and their magnitude in the optical world continues to grow!

Fun fact: Nikon only supply and support their lenses to Independent Opticians around the world! Never to Multiples.

This means you can’t get this quality of lens on the high street. So, we are one of the lucky few to be able to get these amazing lenses.

From Japan with love

After learning some History of Nikon, we moved down to the lab to learn about how lenses are made and how they end up in your glasses! I don’t want to bore you with machine details, however you all should know that each team member of both Nikon and Eyesite work to their best with every lens and frame making sure our customers are happy with their purchase. I was over whelmed with how big the lab was and how many people play in part in the lens production.

Even though the lenses are designed in Japan, we’re proud to tell you they’re manufactured in the UK! Pretty fantastic since not very much is manufactured in the UK anymore. Nikon have Geisha Dolls placed in their head office to show appreciation of their Japanese heritage.

One of Nikon’s tint rooms

Nikon can basically tint your glasses and sunglasses to whatever you want, varying from Ice Blue to Cherry Pink! New jacket? No problem, your lenses can match.

Whether you know about dispensing or not, each dispense requires measurements no matter what you need. Nikon can provide lenses for every prescription.

This year is Nikons 100th Anniversary and we are very happy to be a part of their world as an independent. I hope you all enjoy my first blog and keep checking back for more of my Eyesite journey.

At the end of the day, Sight is the most important way we perceive our world

Sophie's Choice: Dior

Here at Eyesite we love diversity. We love everyone's different style, fashion insight and interpretations of what's on trend. Our Senior Eyewear Stylist Sophie had to share her love of this season's Dior with you all:

The Rise & Rise of Dior.

SO REAL

Since Rihanna made the ‘So Real’ the eyewear piece to be seen in, Dior has been our go to brand. Now available in over 32 different colour combinations and variations we’ve seen it go from strength to strength. Those floating lenses, that distinctive shape, the metal/acetate mix, those colours! It is a must have staple piece for any sunglasses enthusiast- undoubtedly a true icon in the fashion world.

Dior So Real - Rihanna

However, my personal favourite, is one of the original colours. The navy and rose with a flash of pink. (pictured below) But I’m a sucker for anything rose gold! I just can’t help it, I’m like a magpie. Is it rose? Is it shiny? Is it mirrored? Then sign me up!

Dior So Real

SO REAL 'POP'

Dior then brought out the ‘Pop’. It was a new take on the original “So Real”, unmistakebly the piece of the summer, full metal front, no detailing on the lenses apart from the new iconic pale hue, blue, purple, pink or yellow. Choose your weapon, or take them all!

Dior So Real Pop

STELLAIRE

Which leads me nicely to my must have buy this season. I just have to have it. The Stellaire. Like most of my collection (or you could say obsession) it ticks all the boxes rose, shiny AND mirrored but with a super flat over sized lens that’s made of fine ultra thin lightweight metal. Its super cool! They even do an optical version, and yes, it is rose. I’ll take two!

Dior Stellaire

Dior Stellaire

My key trend of the season: Over sized lightweight metals

Sophie x

The Skis the Limit

When you think of Eyesite you think of luxury sunglasses, glasses and phenomenal eye care, am I right? Well, I bet you didn’t know that we offer a selection of ski masks too! Brought to you just in time for the ski/snowboarding season, we have a selection of four Oakley Ski Masks for you to choose from. Oakley are renowned for making sports specific lenses to dramatically enhance contrast and visibility, which is great for when you’re in both sunny and cloudy conditions. This special technology also prevents the need to change lenses as often, giving you more time out on the slopes:

Oakley O FRAME 2.OXM SNOW MATT WHITE WITH FIRE IRIDIUM LENS

Fire iridium is the most advanced first-generation sports lens.

Oakley O FRAME 2.OXM SNOW MATT BLACK WITH FIRE IRIDIUM LENS

• Dual-Vented Lenses with F2 Anti-fog coating to keep your vision crystal clear.
•  Discreet frame notches at the masks temple to increase compatibility with prescription eyewear.
• Triple-layer face foam fleece to wick away sweat.
• Impact Resistant Lexan Sheet.
• Oakley’s Flexible O Matter™ frame conforms to your face for optimised comfort and fit.

Oakley FLIGHT DECK PRIZM WITH SAPPHIRE IRIDIUM LENS

Prizm™ lenses provide unparalleled control of light transmission resulting in precisely tuned colours to maximise contrast and enhance visibility.

Oakley FLIGHT DECK PRIZM WITH TORCH IRIDIUM LENS

• Optically correct rimless lens design with F3 Anti-fog coating.
• Discreet frame notches at the masks temple to increase compatibility with prescription eyewear.
• Lens sub-frame attachment for fast and easy lens changing.
• Injection Moulded Polycarbonate under extreme pressure to create a precise contour of optically correct geometry.
• Rigid lens carrier with Oakley’s flexible O Matter™ faceplate.
• Fits most helmets.

If you fancy hitting the slopes with any of these impressive Oakley Ski Masks pop in to any of our stores to try them on!

Click here to find your nearest Eyesite Opticians.

Enjoy the slopes!

Eyesite Insight

The days are getting colder, the sun ever lower. Never fear, Eyesite are here! We’re here to do what we do best, provide you with amazing luxury eyewear you want to show off whatever the weather.

We’ve got some even more exciting news:
THE EYESITE SALE IS NOW ON!

We know you’ll want to grab your coat post-haste and see it for yourself but before you go, here are the things you need to know:

• You can get up to 50% off selected designer sunglasses!
• We have offers on prescription sunglasses too.
• There are offers available across all 3 of our Eyesite stores. If you don’t know where we live
then we can help you there.
• We’re not limited! We have a huge selection for both male and female eyewear enthusiasts!
• Just SOME of the brands included:

The list goes on but you’re probably wanting to get out there.

Whether you’ve already got a look in mind or whether you’re needing inspiration, our eyewear
stylists are here to help you build the eyewear wardrobe you have always dreamed of.

Pastel Perfect

We suggest going nude this season.  For real. While there will always be pride of place for a bold staple in the collection, try lightening the mood! Good use of pastels, nudes and clear acetates with your specs, can offer great contrast and pair well with late Indian summer whites, beiges and neutral outfits. Whats more, we've seen this style worked to perfection with both the fairer AND darker skin tones this season - Tom Ford SS'17 case in point. Meaning it's an all-inclusive fashion trend we suggest YOU consider trying out! Here are 5 of the best! Pictured (In order): Victoria Beckham, Céline, Cutler and Gross, Chloe, and Tom Ford (Click image to view)

The precious CHOPARD SPECIAL EDITION. (brilliant sunshine on La Croisette!!)

Exciting times for the luxury Swiss powerhouse, as Chopard collaborate with Rihanna to launch their first jewellery collection, whilst giving us plenty to drool over with 2 limited edition masterpieces.... 

23kt Gold Special Edition Chopard

The “Precious” Special Edition has been designed as a tribute to the 70th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, an official Chopard partner for twenty years. The jewellery-glasses designed by De Rigo and Chopard flawlessly embody the incomparable atmosphere of the Festival: a blend of sophistication, glamour and seduction. The metal rims have been superimposed over thick lenses to create an original “clip-on” effect. Luminous and sophisticated, the rims in 23-carat gold plated metal are enhanced by clear crystals for the rose gold version and brown for its red counterpart, all applied by hand on the extension of the lenses. The round and feminine shape creates the appearance of a sparkling cloud, reminiscent of the dazzling splendour of “Precious Chopard” jewellery.

Mille Miglia Special Edition 90th Anniversary folding aviator.

We have a stunning piece from the Chopard collection to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the world’s most famous vintage car race, the Mille Miglia.

Chopard has been the official timekeeper and sponsor of the race since 1988, sharing a passion for performance with the Mille Miglia brand. The capsule collection offers luxury frames with sporty but elegant design traits, marked by a Red Arrow, the race’s logo. The lenses are polarised, to provide perfect vision and optical resolution in all driving conditions. Standout model is the folding aviator (picture). The aviator-shape model features soft touch rubberised temples with tyre tread engraving plus front and temple joints so it can fold compactly.