The legendary former First Lady, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, was not only the perfect partner to the charming President Kennedy, but was also a powerful style icon whose influence extends to the present. She popularised round, oversized sunglasses (also known as ‘Jackie Os’), which have since been established as a chic classic. Today, large sunglasses that cover up to half the face are still one of the most stylish accessories one can own. However, eyewear designers have updated this staple with bolder, sharper shapes, new materials, colours and embellishments.
The eyewear collections from John Galliano and DSQUARED, both of which were just launched last year, follow in this tradition of oversized sunnies but with sleek modern twists that are definitely made with the today’s woman in mind.
John Galliano
As one of the most fantastical storytellers in fashion, Galliano’s flamboyant design philosophy has been translated to its eyewear range (shown above). Going back to his Spanish heritage and the Flamenco, the collection consists of sultry, oversized wrap shades that imitate the theatrical effect of flamenco dancers’ costumes. Mysterious, exotic and imaginative, the colour palate includes smoky kohl, powdered violet and blush rose.
Blending old school glamour with high-tech romance, the designer has experimented with plastic innovations and new lens techniques. The resulting collection is dreamy, decadent and every bit the fantasy that Galliano has set out to create.
DSQUARED
The Canadian twins took the same approach with their eyewear as with their clothes; the designs are sexy, energetic and hip. Heavily inspired by the hip-hop culture of the ‘70s, the collection features mostly oversized frames in various styles. Unisex, fashion forward and innovative, the pieces look glamourous on the women and edgy on the men.
The Stone, an extra large, rounded aviator, is versatile enough for most occasions while the more ostentatious designs, like the acetate models with geometric frames (e.g. Sofia, Martha, Mariacarla), channel the movie star with their gold hardware and strong shapes. For something truly outstanding, go for the metal-framed Mondain that comes in funky hot pink.
Selected John Galliano (SGD599 to SGD896) and DSQUARED (SGD550 to SGD950) eyewear models are available at OJO Optometry (#03-06), Mandarin Gallery
Sex sells – this formula has been applied time and again because it works. Yet few people use it as tastefully or as effectively as the formidable Tom Ford. In 2005, this legendary former creative director of Gucci and YSL set out on his own to create a fashion and media empire. From menswear to beauty, Ford has shown the world that his success does not depend on the heritage and resources of luxury powerhouses (but perhaps, the other way around). This year, the man’s signature style of heightened sexuality is a central theme in his very delectable eyewear collection.