When it comes to finding inspiration for Linda Farrow , Jalbon said it comes from anywhere and everywhere . He says stumbling upon the right design just happens and the company eagerly sets things into motion .
“ Once you find the key direction , whether it be a colour pallet , art , country or just whatever it may be , you have the heartbeat of the collection and you build around the character you have created ,” he said .
Over the years , he adds , London has been recognized as defining what will be in style long before it hits North American runways .
He says there is a resurgence of retro styles making an appearance across the eyewear industry .
“ I think at the top end of the fashion spectrum smaller shapes are coming back . There is a bit of an early 90s feel , Calvin Klein early Kate Moss . This is coming , but I have no idea if it is a commercial trend , but for us and our fashion clientele , this is the new trends we are feeling .”
This tendency for fashion to repeat itself has motivated the team at Linda Farrow to avoid trends as much as possible .
He added the company does not stay ahead of trends but rather focuses on become fashion leaders setting the direction and influence of eyewear .
“ I am proud to say we are not followers but leaders in what we do , and even though at times it is frustrating that other brands and companies copy our ideas , I guess it is only a sign that we are doing something right , and the educated consumer knows this and respects us for our work .”
Independent Spirit This respect also comes from years of experience working with eyewear , not found in other parts of the world . A history of excellence carries a brand further and creates more appeal for buyers .
“ With that comes experience , an archive of styles , imagery and of course the skill to make some of the best eyewear in the world ,” said Claire Goldsmith , Owner of Oliver
Goldsmith Eyewear . “ Obviously a brand that spans several decades may have someone different at the helm , but having brand heritage gives you a library of inspiration and also sets a bar that you either have to exceed or at least maintain . Reputation is key to small brands .”
She says her company has several key components it uses to develop a piece of eyewear . It has to fresh , classic and challenge both the maker and wearer .
“ There is nothing wrong with mixing things up a bit as long as you don ’ t stray too far from your values . We also very much look to our customers and retailers — they are always at the front of our mind when designing ,” she said .
She added a good frame creates excitement for both the wearer and the maker . This feeling is also created when at trade shows and you discover what retailers are searching for and find out you have the piece to match .
“ You can ’ t always predict which style is going to walk off the shelves . In reality it ’ s always a gamble , but its
Eyewear to differentiate yourself
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18 OPTICAL PRISM | MAY / JUNE 2013