
The Ivy Sunroom in Sydney’s CBD was abuzz in late September as fashion editors from around the country arrived en masse to view the latest releases from Luxottica.
Prada, Dolce & Gabanna, Ray-Ban, and Vogue Eyewear were all on display in the main gallery, with the couture brands Oliver Peoples and Persol exclusively displayed in a side room amidst a stunning display of bright yellow chrysanthemums.
Among the collections there was a strong nod to vintage styling with over-sized, round frames, often represented in pastels as well as tortoiseshell. Wooden frames were strongly representedas were material combinations of metal with acetate and even leather.
For men, this year’s Prada collection is all about sharp details, with classic square frames presented in a clean linear design. The Prada Journal project is more retro-inspired with smooth, high-relief geometries on three-dimensional temples.
I loved the opulence of Dolce & Gabbana’s Sicilian brocade sun collectionfor women. These striking acetate frames were a stand out due to an embossed texture applied to a neutral, fabric-effect background on the fronts and temples. Strong in solid black or red; Sicilian brocade frames also come in a neutral powder tone and petrol green.