Eyewear is an essential accessory. When chosen well, they do more than shade the windows to our shiny souls, they become a seemingly natural extension of one’s face, and thus a signature expression of our personal style and tastes. While many brands offer specs that play with the formal qualities of traditional eyewear construction, incorporating exotic materials into sleek configurations, others simply lend a contemporary take on a tried-and-true design. Others still take a wholly experimental approach, challenging the very functionality of eyewear as we know it. The following spectacles are produced by three exciting American-based brands that uniquely embrace the trifecta of tradition, ingenuity, and fun.
Historical Curiosity Zephirin glasses by Jacques Marie Mage, $475.00
The Zephirin is unique in its small rectangular frame and the engraved wire core visible through the tortoise-cured stems. Like all the styles in Jacques Marie Mage’s impressive first collection, the Zephirin draws inspiration from a variety of people and periods from across history — its sizing is distinctly pre-WW2, yet its namesake stems from Zephyrinus, a 2nd century pope. The references are intriguing; the glasses are sturdy, light, and cut a smart silhouette.
Nouveau Psychedelica Kaleidoscope glasses by Future Eyes, $40.
In need of an immediate change of perspective? The kaleidoscope glasses by Future Eyes are simultaneously a critique of perceivable reality and an awesome, supremely photo-friendly party favor. Somewhat of a not-so-underground phenomenon, they were prominently featured in Toro Y Moi’s “Empty Nesters” video, and understandably so — it’s hard not to smile when looking at life through a prism.
Classic Contemporary Kinney glasses by Garrett Leight, $285.
Simple and straight-forward, the Kinney by Garrett Leight California Optical is great as an everyday pair of shades for the brighter days. They somehow beam with the laid back swagger of an upscale surf scholar, their minimal design and solid construction channeling a totally potent Venice vibe.
