Collaborations you’ll definitely want to be part of

The award-winning: Maison Sarah Lavoine and Ateliers Roussilhe

The very definition of a ‘golden couple’, Maison Sarah Lavoine and Ateliers Roussilhe together won a golden Silmo award in the ‘brands and labels’ Sunglasses category. The prize was awarded for the Thyra model, a key piece from their trendy yet timeless unisex collection. Maison Sarah Lavoine was founded by Sarah Poniatowski with an emphasis on tableware and other decor, but the company is constantly reinventing itself, developing ready-to-wear, leather goods and cosmetics ranges. Its first collection of sunglasses was therefore a natural progression – in the same spirit as the rest of the brand, of course: stylish, sustainable and with respect for craftsmanship. It therefore turned to Ateliers Roussilhe with the aim of showcasing French craftsmanship and premium organic acetate.

Find out more about the Maison Sarah Lavoine X Atelier Roussilhe collaboration here.

The exclusive: Maison Nathalie Blanc x Edgard Opticiens

Nathalie Blanc launched her own label back in 2015 and still manages to surprise us. Following high profile collaborations with jeweler Lorentz Bäumer and famous family firm Morel, the designer has brought out an original collection with independent brand Edgard Opticiens. The exclusive French made frames are machined and assembled by hand in Oyonnax, birthplace of the French eyewear industry. On the style front, the glasses stand out for their unique combination of tradition and innovation. Take for example Nathalie Blanc’s signature inverted bridge, which on this occasion (and for the first time) is made from acetate. This symbolic detail profoundly influences the special relationship that exists between the independent brand and the designer. You’ll feel pretty special too, if you can get your hands on one of just 400 pairs of these precious frames, exclusively available at 13 Edgard Opticiens stores.

Find the full list of stores here.

The electrifying: Arca for Ray-Ban Studios

Adapting and reworking the iconic Aviator style is the challenge that electronic music diva Arca set herself. The Venezuelan artist drew on her eclectic inspiration in producing two new versions of the iconic style from the Ray-Ban brand. Think classic silver frames with bright white leather details and gray lenses. At the other end of the spectrum are black frames, complete with black leather details and black lenses. Two very different designs that both play on contrast: black vs. white, horror vs. romance, familiar vs. futuristic… which side will you pick?

Check out the Arca X Ray-Ban Studios collab’ here.

The sophisticated: Oliver Peoples and Brunello Cucinelli 

Extend the summer season into the fall with this collection, which marries the warmth of California with the relaxed Italian way of life. The Bruno Cucinelli label is expanding into eyewear and to celebrate its latest foray, has chosen to team up with American label Oliver Peoples. The resulting five pairs of stylish modern shades pay tribute to the heritage of both brands. The sleek and sophisticated unisex frames come in various different colors, including: black, gray, brown and olive – all classic choices sure to stand the test of time.

Oliver Peoples and Brunello Cucinelli collection is available here.

The pop culture: ZAYN X Arnette

Zayn is a pop star who’s captured the hearts of music fans and fashionistas the world over. His head-turning looks while walking the red carpet (often accompanied by his model girlfriend, Gigi Hadid) have set the fashion world alight. The former member of One Direction has become a real fashion icon, teaming up with major names like Giuseppe Zanotti, The Kooples and most recently Arnette, the Californian label owned by Luxottica. The collection ranges from retro 80s and 90s styles to decidedly modern looks characterized by cutting-edge design and biobased materials. Whether square, rectangular, or round, every design reflects the multifaceted personality of a creative performer, who intends to continue to express his vision of fashion.

The ZAYN X Arnette collaboration is available here.

Written in english by Eleanor Fullalove