The Boss is in

January 27, 2019February 16, 2019 / OpticianAboutTown / Leave a comment

My favorite room in my house is my lady room, my home office that I have designed and decorated to be my creative space. It’s where I come to write my blogs, and it is now getting much more use as it is the office of the Optical & Fashion Editor of Optik Magazine.

It has been a labour of love to get this room just the way I envisioned it. Now I can sit back and look at my handy work, very proud that I painted the room myself (twice, the first colour was all wrong) and refinished an old sideboard to match the rest of the furniture.

The first sparks of inspiration for the room design came from black and gold foil print I found at HomeGoods, after that it seemed that I could rarely get out of a HomeGoods, Marshals or TJ Maxx without a picture with glasses or eyes.

Etsy is another great place that I was able to find prints and pictures for the gallery wall. I really like that Etsy is a marketplace for independent artists and vendors. Many print shops customize quotes, giving you the opportunity to have the words that give you the most motivation printed in stylish fonts.

I decided on a neutral pallet to create a serene and relaxing vibe. The walls are soft blush pink, nearly white with a watercolor wash of color. All the furniture is white, except for my office chair. Another great find from HomeGoods, the fushia and gold office chair is the focal point of the room. It’s as close as I will ever get to a throne and it’s hard not to feel empowered when you sit in this chair.

What I love most about this room is each item is a reflection of me. Most of the items displayed on the desk and shelves are gifts from family and friends, each memento holding a special significance to me.

There is definitely a theme to my lady room. If I had to explain it in one work I would say empowering. The word BOSS is visible throughout. This definitely lead to my mantra life.

In most houses the office is the afterthought the room that is function far more than fashion. I am happy I have found the ideal balance between the two in my lady room. It’s part office, part optical boutique, part closet and a whole lot of me! And with this tour you will get to know me a little better.

Classic Cats Eye for Christmas

January 6, 2019April 18, 2021 / OpticianAboutTown / Leave a comment

The holidays are a time of year where I often find myself seeking the warm embrace of nostalgia. When December hits I am all about Christmas traditions and the spirit of classic things that I love to experience year after year. I always look forward to taking out the Christmas decorations and trimming the tree. It seems to inspires everything from what I bake (shortbread cookies from my nana’s recipe) to how I dress (a red dress with a bow, yes please!). This year that feeling crept into my EyeStyle, leading me to seek a classic black cats eye frame that was a perfect compliment to all the fashions of the season.

Surprising as it is, I did not have a black plastic cats eye frame in my collection!

If I had a signature frame shape it would surely be it. I love a cats eye for it’s feminine, uplifting and sexy shape. I have it in many colors and materials, but I had overlooked it in a traditional, glossy black acetate.

The Andy Wolf 5060 caught my eye and I could no longer go without this classic shape and color combination in my eyeglass wardrobe. Handcrafted, in a traditional and timeless silhouette. A pair of glasses that I will no doubt wear frequently and have in my collection for years to come.

Now I meet ladies everyday that are dead set against a cats eye frame, and if you have this thought then this is the frame to change your mind. It is not too “wingy”, it actually has a slightly straighter browline, but the bridge dip and thoughtful edge angle give lift and defines the wearers cheekbone (and who wouldn’t want to enhance their cheekbones).

This classic cats eye frame is one that I paired with some of my favorite holidays looks. I found it to match perfectly with so many EyeStyle inspired outfits. This year I decided not to match my black glasses, and now I think a bright red dress is a better holiday staple than a little black dress. This dress from Zara was easy to dress up or dress down. For work I paired it with solid opaque tights and a chunky heeled lace up boots by Steve Madden. These boots have a great tread for winter weather and they give me a nostalgic feeling with their 90’s vibes. I consider them my grown up Doc Martin boots. For holiday parties and dinners, I combined the dress and patterned tights with a classic black pump. Regardless if it was a fancy affair or just a Tuesday at work, I topped the outfit with this houndstooth coat from Forever21, for just right amount of pattern and texture. To complete the look I added a bright red lip to add the pop of color on my lips to replace the color I often get from my glasses.

As I wrap up another holiday season I look forward to all the EyeStyle and adventures that 2019 has in store for OpticianAboutTown!

A Winning Combination

December 3, 2018February 16, 2019 / OpticianAboutTown / Leave a comment

Fremont Street in Old Las Vegas is like taking a step back in time and is a sharp contrast to the modern glitz and glam of the new hotels on the Vegas Strip. It seemed like the perfect place to showcase the juxtaposition between vintage inspired frame style and the new lens technology that come together to make an EyeStyle statement.

Fashion’s cyclical nature is no more prevalent than in eyewear. Classic frame shapes in new materials, colours and with slight shape modification are common. Eyewear designers are creatively interpreting historical eyestyles and finding the ideal moment to release them to a new generation, or re-introduce them to those who have worn them before.

I am not old enough to have worn this specific frame shape before, which is always exciting for me because it was a new eyestyle to add to my collection. The instant I put on this frame I was feeling funky, like I was transported to the 70’s. I was immediately planning outfits to embrace a head to toe 70’s vibes that included high waisted bell bottoms and lots denim on denim.

Andy Wolf makes so many of my favorite frames and this one from the SOUL collection is the newest addition to my eyeglass wardrobe. The oversized rectangular frame is made in a thin shiny gold metal. It has a softly curved double bar and a simple gold metal temple with a translucent celluloid temple wrap, coordinated thoughtfully with the matching clear celluloid lens surround. The shape of this frame is such a showstopper it doesn’t need any other embellishments to draw attention.

I am a firm believer that lenses are a crucial part of EyeStyling any pair of glasses. With the spacious lens size of these frames I could not deny it would be the perfect frame for Transitions Style Mirror Lenses. Although it did take some deliberation on whether I should choose the gold or copper mirror finish, I decided on the copper to better go with my hair and skin tone. Transitions Style Mirror lenses are a new technology that allows a flash mirror finish (or coating for those in the business) to be applied to Transitions XtrActive Lenses, in either grey of brown. In my opinion brown is the best choice with the warm copper of the mirror coating and gold of the frame.

These lenses are a gamechanger in the sunwear category, or for the more fashion forward eyeglass wearer a style that can be worn indoors as well. Inside or in low light conditions they are a clear lens with a light flash mirror, so they have an iridescent, reflective appearance.

The magic happens when you expose them to sunlight, the Transitions XtrActive lens changes to a dark brown and the result is a more vivid, opaque mirror finish. One that doesn’t allow you to fully see the wearers eyes.

What’s old is new again and is revived to the fashion forefront with a modern adaptation, so even if you’re old enough to have worn the eyestyle before you can’t resist reliving the past and seeing the world through a new set of eyes!

Pigging out in Portland

October 16, 2018October 16, 2018 / OpticianAboutTown / 4 Comments

I love experiences and memories more than things, and my husband and I were recently looking for a getaway to celebrate our anniversary. It had to be somewhere we could get to by car, because we wanted to make the most of the long weekend. We decided to go to Portland because it’s only a 6 hour drive from home and has so much to do.

It wasn’t the first time we had been to Portland, but our last trip a few years ago was so much fun that we couldn’t wait to go back. We learned a lot from our trip and for that reason I was excited to share my recommendations for a weekend in Portland; what to do, where to stay and most importantly how best to enjoy the great food and beer Portland has to offer.

The Kimpton Monaco in Downtown Portland, 506 SW Washington St, Portland, OR

In the heart of downtown, the Kimpton Monaco was the perfect central location that gave us the luxury of parking the car and spending the weekend on foot. Although I haven’t always been loyal to a hotel chain, after a previous stay at a Kimpton Monaco hotel my loyalty was forever forged. Boutique hotels with a whimsical charm, each room is artistically decorated with in a style homage to the city in which it resides. A stay at a Kimpton Monaco feels less like you’re staying in a hotel room, and more like your staying in an interior designers meticulously decorated apartment. In Portland the eco-chic styling of the Kimpton Monaco rooms pay tribute to the beauty of nature in the pacific northwest, with bird wallpaper, tree inspired lamps, an earthy color pallet and a smattering of plaid fabrics.

The building was once the distinguished Lipman Wolfe Department Store, that opened in 1912 now converted to the Kimpton Monaco Portland, it has lost none of the architectural glory. The centerpiece of the hotel being the large lobby with soaring ceilings, decorated to look like a vintage library and designed to be the heart of the social space that Kimpton Hotel’s are famous for.

Every night the lobby lounge plays host to social hour, featuring live musical and local wine and beer. If you’re lucky enough, like we were, to time our trip on the last Thursday of the month, you have the pleasure of skipping the long lines at the Portland staple VooDoo donuts and indulging in colourful and flavourful baked goodies during social hour. Beyond the beauty and comfort the Kimpton Monaco hotels I have stayed at offer, it is genuine the hospitality that brings me back each time, like the complementary nightcap before you turn in for the night and the hot cup of coffee or tea waiting for you when you wake up.

Portland is the place to go if you want to leave your diet at the door! It is a city of carb indulgence.

These are my recommendations for where to eat in Portland;

Brunch at Mothers, 212 SW Harvey Milk St, Portland, OR

A relaxing weekend away for me is not complete without a leisurely brunch and brunch at Mothers is a must when you stay in Portland, the wait can be long, but it’s well worth it. The aroma of fresh baked pastries and strong brewed coffee permeates the air. Even with plenty of time to choose it was still challenging to narrow down what I wanted to eat. When I travel I like to indulge in what a restaurant is famous for and the crowds of locals return each weekend for Mothers famous Biscuits & Gravy. I have admittedly never had biscuits and gravy and clearly I was missing out. The flaky fall apart biscuits came smothered with thick, seasoned gravy. It was rich without being heavy and paired perfectly with a Mother’s signature spicy bloody mary.

Lunch at Lardo, 1205 SW Washington St, Portland, OR

Lardo is more than a deli, it’s a mecca for those seeking flavorful, meaty sandwiches inspired by worldly flavors. Birthed from a food cart Lardo is now a restaurant favored by locals with two locations, one downtown and one on the other side of the river. The first thing I had to order was one of the house made dill pickles from the big jar on the counter. Then after much deliberation over the mouthwatering menu, we ordered the Nashville hot fried sandwich with honey, bacon, pickles, and Dukes mayo and the Korean pork shoulder sandwich with house made kimchi, chili mayo, cilantro and lime. Lardo has a beer menu that can rival any pub, with rotating tops of seasonal local beer that are just $3.00 during happy hour!

But what forever seared Lardo in my mind and the reason I will never visit Portland without carving time to visit, was their Salt & Vinegar Chicharrones. Fresh from the fryer and still cracking, these light as air pork puffs are the best I have ever had, so much so we returned more than once on our trip to have them again.

Dinner at Grassa, 2360 SW 12th Ave, Portland, OR

The casual counter service at Grassa might seem contradictory to the artisanal, hand crafted pasta that dominated the menu. I am so glad we didn’t let the industrial ambiance and long shared tables dissuade us from choosing Grassa as an intimate dinner location. The pork belly mac and cheese came highly recommended and the spaghetti “Aglio Olio” rivaled any made by my Italian grandfather. Delicious handcrafted pasta with fresh flavors and ingredients, without the high price I expected. Clearly Grassa knows they have a star product because you can now buy their fresh pasta to cook at home, perfect for those of us who aren’t lucky enough to have Grassa close to home.

Things To Do In Portland

I have always loved nail art and I have been following Finger Bang (@FingerBang) on Instagram for years. Getting my nails done at Finger Bang has always been on my bucket list, as soon as I booked our hotel my next call was to make an appointment. I wanted the most authentic Finger Bang experience, so I opted for a for a “Mystery Box Manicure” giving my nail technician free range to let her creativity shine. My only request was that she add an eyeball in the mix. The eclectic shop is clearly a reflection of the owners passion for all things Star Wars and the easy on the eyes life size cutout of Idris Elba shows the playful spirit of Finger Bang. I enjoyed great chat with Tianna, while I sipped rose and watched in awe of her steady hand and artistic skills while she created a whimsical one of a kind manicure just for me. Complete with eyes!

A trip to Portland is not complete without a brewery tour. Portland is a mecca for craft beer lovers, with over 70 breweries, a boozy weekend in Portland is somewhat inevitable. You can sign up for guided tours, but we opted to do it on our own time and did our own self guided tour. We picked a brewery to start and from there just walked around the block to find the next. We set out in the Pearl District and our self guided brewery tour took us to:

Backwoods Brewery, 231 NW 11th Ave, Portland, OR

This was the first stop and a perfect way to kick things off. They have such as large selection of craft brewed beer that a flight was the best way to taste them. Even when I could choose 6 it was still a tough choice (which you can see with my messy selection card). Backwoods brewery has someone pretty cleaver naming their beers as most tie into the overall woodsy theme of the brewery. I (finally) with much deliberation picked;

1.Dreamsicle; Tastes just like a creamsicle, sweet and equally refreshing

2.Logyard IPA; Light with a hoppy kick at the end

3.River Pig; An amber lager that is clear, light and smooth

4.Into the backwoods we go; Had a mild pine flavour as is someone sprinkled in a few needles when they brewed it

5.Grifford Pincot Pilsner; Crisp, refreshing, right up my alley

6.BlueBerry Wheat; If a blueberry muffin and a beer had a baby

BackPedal Brewery, 1425 NW Flanders St, Portland, OR

Our next stop was BackPedal brewery. This smaller brewery is all about the beer, they don’t serve food, but they serve up a great selection of house crafted beers, including a selection of fruit infused beers that was right up my alley. Backpedal brewery is a great place to spend a couple hours drinking beer and playing games. They have all the classic board games on hand and large communal tables, so if your a few players short don’t fret, you can easily find new friends to play with. Backpedal brewery has the vibe of a converted garage and on a sunny day you’ll find the large bay open giving way to plenty of space to play corn-hole.

Von Ebert Brewery, 131 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR

After a few brewery stops it was delightful to find a great food menu at this brewery. Von Ebert focuses on a house made brew, American made, mostly poured directly from brite tanks, which helps keep aroma in the beer. They proudly do not have a filter, but still make very bright beers. With so many on tap to choose from another flight was they best way to experience what they had to offer. With our flight of beer we ordered the deep fried pickles, I never skip ordering them when I have the chance, and these were very good!

A weekend in Portland is not complete without some shopping, without sales tax, the price you see is the price you pay. I love visiting Portland at the very end of summer or into fall, not only for the ideal weather, but the shopping season is perfect, because you are on the cusp of a new season and wardrobe!

I cannot ignore the essential EyeStyles for my weekend travels. We were very lucky to have sunny skies overall in Portland, but not without a few showers on our first day. Lucky for me I was wearing Transitions Lenses all weekend, so I didn’t miss a beat in having to change glasses or get caught without sunglasses when the sun eventually came out. I took inspiration from the laid back hipster vibes of Portland and opted for two pairs of simple gold wire-rimmed frames by Andy Wolf. They proved the perfect eyecessory for a casual weekend getaway in Portland.

Do you have a favorite Portland spot I missed?

Summer EyeStyle Delights

September 12, 2018September 12, 2018 / OpticianAboutTown / 1 Comment

pitt-meadows-photographer-sheena-17 Round glasses have proven themselves as the must have eyewear shape for summer 2018. Although round eyewear has been steadily making their popularity known for nearly a year, what those in the industry embrace early on can take time to be accepted by the mainstream wearer.

Round glasses are often thought to be reserved for the intellectual professor type or those looking to capture Harry Potter’s style. Yet round eyewear styles have now become widely accepted by a broader audience. I have no doubt that this comes from the introduction of many more round frame styles in thinner metals and lighter plastic colors. I have a saying when I fit someone with round glasses, and it’s “you have to kiss a lot of frogs”, meaning you have to be ready to try on lots of different round frames to find the one that suits you best. Although there are recommendations for frame shapes based on the shape of your face, I believe that everyone can wear a round frame, as long as the right proportions can be found.

It might be a round frame with a flatter top, a higher bridge or even one with a slightly more oblong shape, but if you have an open mind to try on many different round frames you can surely find one that suits you. One of the most flattering round frames I have found is the “Lisa” by Andy Wolf. A stylish, well thought out and carefully crafted frame that knows no boundaries! andy-wolf-light-blue-4710-Round-Frame-Metal-Sunglasses Often with round frames the bridge (the centerpiece) of the glasses can be quite wide, and that can be a problem if your eyes are slightly more narrow set. Because a wide bridge will actually create the optical illusion that your eyes are closer together. Even those who have normal eye spacing proportions have to be aware that an incorrect frame fit can cause this.

In the delicate style that is the benchmark of the Andy Wolf SOUL collection the “Lisa” has an architectural bridge design, featuring a bend to it that is a truly unique and brilliantly flattering.

I want to make sure I make the most of these last few warm, bright evenings of summer. As someone who is typically stuck inside all day I love when I can close up the shop and still enjoy an evening outside with bare shoulders. I can’t help but think of summer picnics and days spent outdoors when I see gingham, it’s such a happy pattern. This adorable, off the shoulder sky blue gingham top was my color inspiration for the lenses. I love how lens features can really change the whole style of a pair of glasses, creating visually interesting, optically optimal and fabulously fashionable spectacles. The light blue of the lenses pairs perfectly with the shiny gold finish of the frame. The intricately embossed eyewire and temples add a delicate depth reminiscent of centuries old eyeglass craftsmanship.

pitt-meadows-photographer-sheena-48 For a round frame with a little something more, look no further than these delightful frames by Etnia Barcelona. The “Shenzhen” frame has so many design layers, yet is light and fresh. The shiny pinky tone in this rose gold frame has me swooning at first sight.

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The round frame shape, complete with brow bar pulled me in and the two tone translucent pink acetate lens surround sealed the deal, they had to be mine!

To increase the eyestyle and up the comfort level, I added Transitions Signature 7 Lenses in brown, because they adapt to changing light conditions. From completely clear to a light rosy brown tone, to a dark chestnut brown in bright sun. So when an after work bike cruise is on the agenda I can make the most of the evening summer light without having to slow down and fuss with changing my eyewear.

pitt-meadows-photographer-sheena-52 It’s such a nice feeling to finish work for the day and change into some denim shorts and a cute pair of flat sandals. I love a little flair in my fashion and this amazing geometric kimono has become a piece I find myself wearing again and again. I fell in love with this print when I bought it in jumpsuit, and didn’t have to think twice to buy it again. It has been a summer wardrobe staple for me adding an polish in an effortless way.

pitt-meadows-photographer-sheena-59 I have paired it with both my Andy Wolf round gold frame with blue lenses and the pink Etnia Barcelona frame. With the all the beautiful colors in the bold geometric kimono print it is hard to say which pairing I like better, they both look so good.

I will no doubt pull the navy and yellow from the pattern to wear it into fall, now which glasses will I pair it with then…?

I encourage everyone to try a round eye style, you might have to kiss a lot of frogs, but it will no doubt lead to you finding your prince charming!

Palm leaves & Popsicle’s, The Transitions Xtractive Style Mirrors Launch

August 15, 2018September 23, 2018 / OpticianAboutTown / 1 Comment

I believe that personal style is based on comfort and personality, and I love something that is adaptive to different situations.

Usually people don’t associate style with Transitions Lenses, as an avid lover of these lenses I find most people dismiss them based on an outdated impression. But even the naysayers will not be able to resist the amazing style you can create with the new Transitions Xtractive Style Mirror Lenses.

Only a chic setting would do justice for the launch of the stylish new addition to the Transitions Lenses portfolio. The Addisions is a little hot spot, a venue with a cheeky story,

“Few people know who they are, and even fewer have ever made their acquaintance. They collect fine art and always have a stocked bar. They have amazing food on hand, and their friends are all so charming. And their house – my God. Have you seen their house? They really do have it all. It’s just too bad they’re never around to enjoy it.”

In The Addisons Hamptons inspired backyard, littered with pool floaties, skirted by black and white striped cabanas, overflowing with palm printed pillows; it was the perfect venue to lounge, listen to summer anthems spun by DJ’s Coco & Breezy, all while sipping on refreshing Prosecco Pop cocktails and trying on sunglasses by Coco & Breezy featuring Transitions Xtractive Style Mirror Lenses.

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-Eyewear designers, DJ’s and Transitions Brand Ambassadors Coco & Breezy-

Because we all want to look fabulous from daylight to dusk. The desire to always be wearing the right eyewear is as crucial to me as wearing the right shoes! So I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to wear and share Transitions Xtractive Style Mirrors. A lens that amps up the style factor and elevates any outfit. These new sun lenses are an option that will appeal to both prescription and non prescription eyeglass wearers, because the responsive and adaptive nature of the lenses suits so many styles and situations.

Transitions Xtractive Style Mirror lenses change from a sheer translucent mirror in low lights and alters to an opaque, iridescent mirror when exposed to bright UV light.

These sun lenses are available in two Transitions Xtractive base colours, grey or brown, and 5 on trend fashion mirrors. So no matter your age or EYEstyle the light intelligent, hassle free nature of these lenses allow you to express your individual style, without missing a moment.

I chose the gold mirror colour on a brown Transitions Xtractive base, when I put these lenses in my Alexander McQueen sunglasses I was blown away! Originally these sunglasses featured a plain grey gradient lens, which didn’t do much to compliment the green and gold frame design. With the gold mirror on the lenses, these sunglasses are next level amazing! The gold finish on the lenses blends perfectly into the shiny gold finish on the frame and made the unique green acetate of the combo style standout.

These sunglasses were the perfect inspiration for my outfit choice for the event. Coco & Breezy have been know to say “eyeglasses are the outfit, and clothing is the accessory”, in this case I couldn’t agree more!

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The palm print pattern of this two piece set intensified the green of the Alexander McQueen frames. I added a contrasting pop of colour with these fun tassel earrings by H&M and my signature summer orange-red lipstick “Countess” by Kat Von D. A simple nude shoe let everything else shine.

Set your sights on looking stylish and enjoying every last minute of summer sunshine with adaptive sun lenses with Transition Xtractive Style Mirror Lenses.

-Be sure to tag me and show me how you EYEstyle yourself! #OpticianAboutTown-

Eye can spot a classic

July 10, 2018September 23, 2018 / OpticianAboutTown / 1 Comment

Nothing is quite as classic as black and white and for summer 2018 this classic pairing is heating up with a geometric twist.

Stripes, polka dots, and geometric patterns are making themselves seen in fashion eyewear on frames by CALVIN KLEIN, Etnia Barcelona and FACE A FACE.

This EYEstyle is one of my top 5 trends for summer 2018. Regardless of your style or age you can look perfectly chic in black and white sunglasses. On your way to the office, at the beach, a barbecue or Le Diner en blanc, there is a pair of black and white sunglasses that will elevate any look this summer.

I am continuously finding stand out styles that have me doing a double take in the new collection of CALVIN KLEIN Sun. The new creative director Raf Simons, is perfectly blending all the classics that come to mind when I think of Calvin Klein. Black and white has really always been something I associate with Calvin Klein as a brand, dating back to my first impressions of the brand in magazine ads featuring Kate Moss, and the still unforgettable picture of Marky Mark in his tighty whities. CALVIN KLEIN is re-connecting with it’s roots, while still setting trends.

These sunglasses are the prefect example. A classic aviator style, re-imagined for the fashion forward eyewear lover. Black and white striped acetate with a solid rather than cut out bridge design make up the frame front of these CALVIN KLEIN sunglasses. Allowing the patterned frame front to shine, it is cleverly supported by thin, silver metal temples, that seamlessly tie in the silver flash mirror lenses.

Clearly CALVIN KLEIN designer Raf Simons knew he was on to something brilliant by adding black and white stripes to sunglasses, because he didn’t stop at just one pair in the collection.

A gorgeous gold frame in a perfectly round shape, is elevated to show stopping status with black and white striped acetate around the lenses. I have long thought that black and gold is the standout classic frame color combination, but adding white to the color combo may have changed my mind. These sunglasses cannot be celebrated without taking notice of the lighter tint pink lenses. I’ll be wearing these sunglasses for after work patio drinks or evening summer outings, because as dusk sets in I don’t have to lose my eyecessories!

*I have some exciting plans to modify these lenses to make them more practical and versatile in summer light conditions, I’ll be sure to share when they had their upgrades!

Etnia Barcelona knows how to set trends in fashion eyewear, while stealing my opticians heart, crafting their frames with the finest materials and attention to detail and they have two gorgeous sunglasses styles featuring stand out black and white stripes.

The “Yaletown” is a feisty cats eye shaped pair of sunglasses. The sleek black metal frame with adjustable nose pads (perfect for those that need a little help keeping frames on their noses or to keep larger sunglasses from sitting on your cheeks), has 3 dimensional cat “ears” in black and white striped Italian Mazzucchelli acetate. MEOW!

The “Woseley” is a round metal frame with a black trim around the lenses, a silver bridge and silver temples. What I can only describe as a unique “eyelid”, the frame features a striped black and white acetate overlay on the lens. Uniquely adding design and pattern without any alteration to the round shape and clean lines of the frame, giving it a timeless vintage look from afar, and a modern visual treat up close. The cool tones of the dark grey mineral glass lenses finish this one of a kind look.

The bolder glam shapes by Eyewear house FACE A FACE highlight the black and white sunglass trend in a more mod way. Designed in a vintage shape made famous by Jackie O, a deeper, rectangular cats eye and a perfect hybrid of the two, these frames are color blocked perfectly in the two most match worthy tones in your wardrobe.

A pair of black and white sunglasses with a geometric twist will without a doubt have you standing out all summer long and they will be a go to classic in your eyeglass wardrobe for years to come.

70’s Vibes Inspire Summer Sunglasses

June 21, 2018September 20, 2018 / OpticianAboutTown / Leave a comment

It is the start of a new season, and there seemed no better location than the desert at dawn to showcase one of summer 2018’s must try sunglass trends.

In the spirit of the 1970’s, a time when individuality and expression through fashion reigned supreme and iconic trends were formed and forever etched into the style bible. For summer 2018 eyewear is trending in shapes and colors reminiscent of a throwback seventies vibe.

I get very excited for a new shape in eyewear, and although it’s not “new”, the comeback of a Hexagonal frame is a shape trend that is sure to make its mark in eyewear for 2019. The first few signs of the trend are creeping into sunglasses and I have a prediction that the shape will become increasingly popular for both sunglasses and eyeglasses in the year to come.

These hexagonal frames by Mizayke are a light metal frame that allows the strong geometric shape to shine, complete with a bridge shape that compliments rather than pull focus from the geometric outline. The sunglasses have gradient tinted lenses in a deep rich mahogany color. Giving an ombre look that provides the perfect accent to add a layer of 70’s spirit to the frame.

This year the classic aviator shape you know and love is being reintroduced in a more angular, rectangular silhouette. Known as a navigator style, this sunglass shape is a hybrid of the classic aviator, double bridge design and a rectangular frame shape. The ‘Mitte” by Etnia Barcelona, adapts the navigator foundation adding unexpected angles to create sunglasses that evoke a funky vintage vibe. Although the sunglasses might look a little masculine on first glance, this androgynous style can be worn by men or women.

The “Mitte” sunglasses are the first that I’ve come across that are designed for men in rose gold, a flattering color, especially against tanned summer skin.

(As an added bonus you can buy them for your man, and wear them too!)

Etnia Barcelona has created a bold double bar silhouette and added a delicate linear, engraved temple detail. Tone on tone, translucent acetate cradles copper colored natural mineral lenses.

Lenses change the style profile of a pair of sunglasses. It’s an element that can add a personality to a basic pair of frames. Gradient tinted lens gained popularity in the 1970’s and the trend carried on through to the 1980’s. A gradient can also be referred to as a fashion tint. This is a style of sunglass lens that is darker at the top of the lens and gradually lightens towards the bottom of the lens. From barely there sheer washes of color that can be worn indoors to a dark gradient depth for comfort in bright sunshine. Gradient lenses in shades of brown have a distinct 70’s vibe.

To elevate the style factor in one of my favorite Andy Wolf frames, the “Brigitte”, I decided to take inspiration from the Andy Wolf demo lenses and add a very sheer gradient brown tint to enhance a throwback feel. I wanted these glasses to be customized to meet all my visual needs and be a design all my own. So to make these glasses perfection for inside and outside I added the light tint on a Transition Xtractive brown lenses, thus creating a fab pair of glasses or sunglasses…depending on where you see me!

I love that a pair of eyewear can be the inspirational starting point for unique outfit. You can be a chameleon and take on a totally different personality than your everyday. These 70’s inspired sunglasses would be a perfect EYEcessory for a summer music festival, road trip or backyard barbecue. A standout style look that would be perfect with a embroidered crop top, a pair of high waisted denim and a pair of boho boots.

As I danced in the desert at dawn in this adorable embroidered linen dress, boho boots and a felt rancher hat, I was definitely feeling good vibes in these throwback sunglass styles.

So whether you experienced the 70’s or just want to live vicariously through the fashions of the era, this summer is the perfect time to visit this groovy decade of eyewear.

Spring Blush

May 29, 2018September 20, 2018 / OpticianAboutTown / 1 Comment

Pink and blush tones have been sprouting up in eyewear…

For spring/summer 2018 there is no doubt that the trend is in full bloom. From barely there translucent blush, to opaque pinks and rosy tones, glasses and sunglasses in soft shades are a breath of fresh air in comparison to the dark frames styles of recent seasons.

Two frames that stood out to me in perfect shades of pink this season was an eyeglass frame & co-coordinating sunglasses partner by CALVIN KLEIN eyewear. Both the glasses and sunglasses are a combination of two different acetates, one solid pink, one with a subtle linear, brushstroke pattern. The almost puzzle like quality of the acetate is set on a frame of rose gold, giving the frame an eye catching dimension.

CALVIN KLEIN eyewear has had somewhat of a rebirth with the arrival of new Chief Creative Officer Raf Simons. With Raf Simons leading the creative strategy for the CALVIN KLEIN brand globally, the eyewear collection has regained the brands identity celebrating classic and contemporary casual, while being a modern provocateur of what is to come.

The glam oversized, round sunglasses are thoughtfully designed, with a narrow bridge and nosepads to keep the large frame from sitting on your cheeks. While the slightly mirrored, rose gold lenses have me enjoying the world through rose colored glasses!

I love that even the ever popular tortoise pattern is getting a spring refresh with tones of blush. The soft pink base replacing the more traditional tortoise (dark brown and medium brown muddled print), Havana tortoise (light brown and tan, often with a caramel hue) or Tokyo tortoise (amber hue and dark brown muddled print, with greater contrast between colors). Blush tortoise is flattering on all skin tones, and is particularly perfect for those fair skin tones that want a lighter look. It is still a fantastic neutral option and a perfect way to embrace the blush trend, even if you’re someone who typically doesn’t gravitate towards pink.

A good-looking frame that embraces the blush tortoise trend is the CK18107. It marries a retro silhouette and modern aesthetics. This frame is a collaboration of many hot trends in eyewear for 2018, it’s round, a thinner more minimal look and is a combination of metal and plastic, in hues of rose gold and blush tortoise. It’s perfection!

When I saw theses cotton candy pink sunnies by Derek Lam, I knew they would be the a perfect EYEcessory to go with the pattern on this jumpsuit. The “Venus” is a butterfly shape with a geometric flair, featuring the signature hole punch temple design that connects all the sunglasses in Derek Lams’ new 2018 collection. Although it’s called coral the sunglasses are much more pinky that the name would have you believe. With it’s subtle gold hinge accent and gradient grey lenses it’s a sweet choice for spring/summer 2018.

Consider blush and pink colored glasses and sunglasses a new neutral, for your next pair of spectacular spectacles as they are one of my Spring/Summer 2018 EYEstyle Trends to watch.

All Eyes on New York

March 31, 2018September 23, 2018 / OpticianAboutTown / Leave a comment

New York City has become a familiar place for me; it’s somewhere I have been lucky enough to visit each spring for the past few years. I have my favorite restaurants which I always have to revisit, my favorite neighborhoods for shopping, yet each trip I discover many new places, which sometimes happen to be on the same streets I’ve been down dozens of times before. What brings me to New York each March is Vision Expo East, and if you can only make one North American optical event per year, this is the one to attend. For me Vision Expo East is what signals the first signs of spring, a new style season and a clear view of where optical trends are going for the coming year. The temperature might have felt more like winter, yet the sun was shining and the new eyewear styles were in full bloom.

Vision Expo was 4 days of optical education, networking events and of course the largest showcase of eyewear and accessories all in one place. As I returned for my 4th year it was my busiest yet, with so many great things to share, this might turn into a novel if I share them all, so here are my highlights from Vision Expo East 2018.

This year I had the pleasure to share my Vision Expo experience with friend, fellow blogger and all things eye enthusiast, Dr. Amanda Rights (@optomeyeslife). You know when you meet someone and just instantly click?! This was Amanda and I when we met at Transitions Academy two years ago. Meeting someone that shares my passion for the optical industry and being a serious girl boss made us fast friends.

The OWA Champagne Breakfast

Champagne for breakfast is always a good idea! As is coming together with inspirational and supportive female leaders in the optical industry. Although it was an early start, looking around the room, there was no doubt why these women are lady bosses all in their own rights. Keynote speaker Francis Cole Jones, author of “How to Wow” made me sit a little straighter, stand a little taller and leave with the know how to exude confidence in any interaction through body language and conversational cues.

Eyecessorize

This blogger and media event took us to the top floor of The Standard Hotel to get an exclusive first look at the newest Eyecessories for spring. It was really a perfect evening for an eyeglass blogger, a 360 degree view of the Manhattan skyline, set against a sky that matched my glass of rosé in hand, all while I tried on glasses and sunglasses from collections I know and some I had not seen before. I get downright giddy for cool glasses, and it wasn’t just the rosé that had me tickled pink. Frames from Kate Young for Tura and Kendall & Kylie eyewear impressed me with their style and featured frame shapes I hadn’t seen before (which is hard when you see as many glasses and sunglasses as I do!).

Coco & Breezy Showroom Grand Opening

I have had the pleasure to come to know this dynamic duo over the past couple years, as Transitions Brand Ambassadors our paths have crossed many times. It has been so inspiring to watch these ambition, driven, unstoppable young ladies make their place in the optical industry. Evolving their self named brand from sunglasses to ophthalmic frames in just a few short years. As these ladies build their empire, they have built a showroom that is as much a reflection of their style as their eyewear. It was a pleasure to be invited to celebrate the grand opening of the showroom, to see their creative space, view the sketches, feel the material samples, and of course try on the finished product.

Meeting a Real Housewife

So I am admittedly a Real Housewives of (every city) super fan. It’s my guilty pleasure and I’m not shy to admit it. So after a cup of tea and some Real Housewives of Atlanta on Sunday morning I was off to the Javits for my fourth day. Imagine my delight when only an hour after watching her on TV I had the pleasure to meet Ms. Cynthia Bailey herself! Showcasing her eyewear collection at Vision Expo, the fabulous Ms. Bailey was warm and kind and more beautiful in person than she is on TV.

I love that after 4 days at Vision Expo East, seeing thousands of frames, and admittedly trying on hundreds, I have a clear outlook on eyewear trends for 2018 and I can’t wait to share them all with you!