Optical Prism September 2016 | Page 28

HOT LOOKS FOR FALL Metal, the classics and retro. We're not talking music, but rather what's hot for eyewear this fall season. By Jody Johnson “Metals are starting to see a resurgence as consumers look for a change from the acetate frames that they have been wearing for the last couple of years,” says Beverly Suliteanu, vice-president of product development at WestGroupe. WestGroupe's frames that feature a combination of materials are enjoying a surge in popularity. Metal inlays, bridges and accents are all ways to make acetate frames more interesting. The infinite applications of metal make it the perfect material to complement the ever-changing spirit of the fashion world. The titanium Evatik E-9128 frames are hot this season. They boast screwless hinges for smooth temple movement and beta titanium temples to ensure all-day comfort. Laser-etched temple stripes combined with two-tone colouring add a sporty vibe to an otherwise clean design. “Sleek and sophisticated are two words to describe Evatik model E-9128,” says Suliteanu. Slimmer and defined frames are also back in style. “Chunky plastics are being replaced with a more refined look, while still maintaining a retro or vintage vibe,” says Suliteanu. “The key shapes for women range from new angular shapes to softly rounded and cat-eye. Popular men’s shapes include round, P3 and rectangular.” WestGroupe’s KLiiK Denmark K-560 frame is a handmade acetate frame with an updated retro look. The riveted 28 Optical Prism | September 2016 hinges, metallic end caps and exposed circular pins on the temples create the classic look and feel of this frame. It is embellished with a pretty press pattern along the top and the sides of the eye shape for added depth and texture. Suliteanu says top trending colours for this season include pastel hues, neutrals and bold blues as well as greens and reds for both men and women. Metallics such as gold, copper, rose gold and silver are also trending as metal frames increase in popularity. To help fill an industry need, Tura Inc. has added women’s titanium designs to its collection. “We have the ability to produce stylish titanium designs that are comfortable, hypoallergenic and all in keeping with the Tura brand DNA — high-quality frames for today's fashionable woman,” says Tura’s brand manager Julie Allen. The Tura R124 frames feature a classic, modified rectangular lens shape with a pierced open rectangular design on the temples, which provides comfort by perfectly combining its lightweight character and fashion with the jewelry link temple design. It comes in burgundy, gold and navy. For men, Tura Inc. is expanding its Geoffrey Beene XL eyewear collection. Fitting patients with a wider head is easier than ever. Frames in this collection are far from bulky and special attention is paid to the head fit and overall quality of the frame.