Euroinsights – Silmo Paris 2021 – Energetic Resilience

A celebratory air enveloped Silmo Paris 2021; the opening days were also blessed with sunshine and friendly vibes. There were fewer exhibitors and visitors due to the lingering effects of the pandemic; however, this did not diminish the spirit or enthusiasm of people meeting again, and the elation of actually seeing and personally engaging with designers and their artistic concepts. The enforced hiatus enabled many designers and companies to re-evaluate how they work, and what steps they wish to pursue, as they move forward into an uncertain future, with a positive and confident mindset.

Overall, designs reflect the conservative mood that prevails right now; however, this is never boring, as quality is uppermost with frames that are imbued with exquisite detail and creative stimulation. Colors are primarily subdued; counterbalanced with bright, vivid hues in both optical and sunglass designs.  Color-rich intensity is achieved with luminous acetates and superior matt finishes. Here is a sampling of sleek designs destined to bring eyewear joy and stylish eyewear statements to autumn and winter.

Jeremy Tarian’s latest collection is an ode to flowers with distinctive shapes and colorations that highlight the beauty and variety of blooms. Sunglasses and optical designs are given the magic wand of Tarian treatments – premium materials, precise attention to detail, and statement silhouettes.

Thomas Lafont at Lafont Paris was on an effervescent creative roll during lockdowns, and he has created ‘new out of the old’ with superb frames crafted from upcycled acetate in vivid colors, with Inouie among the Limited Edition designs. Lafont has also launched eco-friendly frames for children, in upcycled acetate.

The nuances and spirit of African deserts is the foundation for Luca Gnecchi Ruscone’s striking Palmerie Collection at L.G.R. Three captivating styles in 10mm Italian acetates feature sensuous curves with dynamic personality and character. Palma is bold, confident, and luxurious in stunning Havana.

Struktur eyewear designs are fun, stylish, expressive, and exude high quality. Handcrafted in Normandy, this strong sustainable feature further adds to their allure.   The Dreamcatcher in Turtle Beach is among the charismatic sunglass designs presented at Silmo.

Rolf Spectacles plant-based substance collection has already garnered the European Green Award, and they were nominated for a Silmo d’Or. Launched at Silmo is the newest addition to the eco-friendly substance frames – children’s designs. The shapes are strategically engineered to adapt to the fast-changing shape of a child’s face, and also provide comfort and durability for active youngsters.

Emmanuelle Khanh’s glorious tortoiseshell patterns are a brand statement, and the latest interpretations are imbued with the EK spirit of adventure, charismatic style, quality, and comfort.  Priscilla reflects Eva Gaumé’s superb understanding of EK’s iconic heritage, which is richly embraced with the new designs for autumn/winter.

The French collection WOOW crosses the Atlantic to capture the vitality and vibrancy of New York City, with optical and sun designs in vivid, bouncy colorations. Super-Duper glistens in luminous red-to-pink acetate intonations.

Nowadays, the unfolding wave in life, literature, the arts, and our surroundings is a return to ‘roots’ – particularly with the emergence from a pandemic. In Japanese, Minamoto means ‘origin’ – and Charmant, whose birthplace is the Japanese city Sabae, was inspired by this history to create the Minamoto collection. Pure titanium is molded into timeless, minimalistic frames with amazing precision and meticulous engraving. Even the glass cases reflect Japanese traditions – they are individually made with handcrafted washi paper.

Copper and brushed honey gold on a full titanium frame bring subtle glamour to Madison by Salt. Optics. Lean lines united with a bold browline further enhance the contemporary styling that is a trademark of the California brand, which also enjoys a strong European following.

Beautiful frames deserve fine care and protection, and why not a bit of merriment as well? Any Di from Germany creates unique eyeglass case covers that feature animals, fruits, and even flirty eyelashes! Her latest creations include this charming little bear that not only protects your specs but is also an individualistic accessory.

The effervescence of the 1970’s inspires Maison Nathalie Blanc with Jeanne – a ravishing, oversized silhouette in acetate and 22caret gold metal. Nathalie Blanc designs are crafted with artisan expertise and precision.

Silmo was a decisive showcase for creative eyewear platforms, and a hopeful endorsement for the future of imaginative spectacle designs –  and their artistic innovators.