An atmosphere of positivity and optimism filled the halls at Parc des Expositions for the 2022 edition of Silmo Paris. After several show cancellations over the past three years and adjusted timetables, exhibitors, opticians, and visitors were delighted to feel that there was a return to normalcy.
As uncertainty continues to exist due to world events, designers and companies appeared to be overall, somewhat cautious in their approach to eyewear designs. This in no way means boring; just more structured and some restraint in how far to experiment with overly radical shapes and materials. Traditional foundations are coupled with dynamic technology, precise attention to detail, and uplifting color.
Overall, shapes are classical – with the “wow” factor manifested in color – vibrant or subtle, along with other inspired improvements. The color spectrum ranges from intense, warm tones, to more restrained palettes that are neutral, but definitely not bland. Nature’s bountiful selection of colors from trees, flowers, rocks, the sea, and sky, are infused in many of the collections.
Nowadays, sustainability is at the forefront of the optical world. As climate change wrecks havoc on many areas of the planet, companies are looking at the myriad ways in which they can contribute to preserving our beautiful, yet very fragile planet.
Color was the theme in Jeremy Tarian’s Atelier Collection which includes four unique shapes with one superb point: the innovative use of colors and lines. Jeremy’s cultivated, discerning frames are crafted in layers that create an optical illusion between the thickness of the shimmering acetate, and the finesse of the line evident in Piana. Each Tarian frame is a Limited Edition of ninety-nine pieces and is constructed totally in France.
Sustainability is a key initiative at Götti Eyewear in Switzerland, and now more designs are made in Sven Götti’s homeland, that includes manufacturing in Wädenswil, the town where Götti offices are located. Among the elegant and sleek designs from the Götti Perspective Collection – artistically aesthetic, ultra-minimalist frames – is DC11, with a 3D printed front and stainless steel sides. Götti has also launched an eye-catching chain to securely hold and protect frames, which also uses 3D printing, and is manufactured in Wädenswil.
Cocoa Mint by Eyespace Eyewear effectively expresses relaxed glamour in crystal acetate – style CM9136 – included in their contemporary and sought-after collection of optical and sunglass designs. A streamlined lilac-to-pink ombre technique embraces eyewear trends and harmonizes effortlessly with the rose gold stainless steel temples. The UL label is a strong supporter of sustainability and represents notable British brands Aspinal and Land Rover.
Rolf Spectacles in Austria has always looked to Nature for guidance and inspiration in their work. The latest frame in the spirit of Mother Nature is Honey, dedicated to one of the earth’s most important insects – bees – as bees pollinate approximately 80% of the world’s crops. The new surface structure is customized from a fast-growing sustainable plant, and the contemporary shape in a variety of appealing colors radiates grace and balance. Crafted in the Tyrol region of Austria, Rolf is the recipient of numerous Silmo d’Or awards.
When Emmanuelle Khanh first launched her eponymous collection over fifty years ago, she galvanized the eyewear sector with ultra-gleaming acetates in voluminous shapes and a new direction in frame design that captivated wearers. Now the iconic label is in the creative, immensely capable hands of Artistic Director Eva Gaumé, who incandescently captures the effervescent spirit of Emmanuelle Khanh. The curvaceous Solstice shape is charismatic and an ode to the history of EK, as well as its bountiful future. All EK frames are crafted in France.
Heritage shaping highlights the latest evolution at L.G.R – discover Reunion Rim – the impeccable offspring of the bestseller Reunion. Luca Gnecchi Ruscone sculptures exquisite shaping, which is further perfected with a contrasting rim on the frame front providing ala smart, unique look. Timelessness meets modernity with the tonal acetate colors on the front and temples of the frame.
Thomas Lafont at Lafont Paris unveiled vivid, jubilant color interpretations at Silmo with the brand’s amazing range of eyewear – optical and sunglasses – for men, women, and children. Lafont has always been a bastion of color, presented in unexpected combinations. Sunny climes come to mind with Maldives sun spectacles, in a cornucopia of delicious acetate colors. Lafont’s designs are fully crafted in France.
Bold, bright, and ebullient, JF Rey flashes electric neon colors onto an idiosyncratic frame with octagonal shaping and a dynamic harmony in strong graphic contrasts. Model JF3008 – shown in neon green – showcases metal with the rhythm of fluid lines and sizzling color vibrations. The frame is made in France in the Jura region, acknowledged for its eyewear manufacturing expertise.
Silmo 2022 was a confident and effective event to confirm undeniable optimism for the continuing bounce and balance that brings well-being, style, glamour, and possibilities for designers, brands, opticians, and ultimately, the spectacle wearer.
