Frames with unexpected pops of bright colour and bold shapes were everywhere at the recent launch of Specsavers’ autumn/winter ‘19 frame collection.
Stig Engelbreth Hansen
Taking inspiration from the current 90s revival seen on the runways, the collection features updated shapes, big and bold logos, and bright colours. With reflective blues, luminous greens, rich reds, dusty pinks and purples, and shades of gold, Specsavers Global Head of Product Design, Stig Engelbreth Hansen, says it’s all about individuality.
A qualified optometrist designing frames for Specsavers from his base in Hong Kong, Mr Engelbreth Hansen unveiled the collection explaining, “Glasses wearers are becoming more and more daring when it comes to selecting their frames.
“This season it’s all about the attitude and confidence that glasses can bring out in the wearer. It is this desire for individual style that has led to a return of colour in our new season collections.”
Mr Engelbreth Hansen was keen to point out that a return to colour does not mean you can expect to see Specsavers’ shelves bursting with brightness (though there are some strong statement colours among the mix).
“When we talk about colour, some of the mustards, burnt oranges etc. don’t look amazing on all skin types, so we use them in accents, or inside the temples, or within a mottled tortoiseshell – so you capture the essence of the colour trends but it’s more subtle.”
In terms of shape, he said there is plenty to look forward to. “We’ve seen a resurgence of letterbox shapes emerging in invisible rimless styles and high bridge round-eyes.
“The most popular styles for women are oversized round metal frames, cat eye styles in bold acetate and vintage-inspired panto shapes. For men, panto shapes in both metal and acetate are key, while aviator style glasses are still a cool classic.”
Mr Engelbreth Hansen, who grew up in the design capital of Copenhagen, said the Australian market is typically more willing to experiment with shape and colour than customers in Specsavers’ home market of the United Kingdom. “You wear more daring colours – I think because you are a very big melting pot – and that’s what makes it exciting.
“First time eyewear users are always a bit more cautious – my advice to them is go with your gut feeling – you always have something in mind when you come into a store… build a wardrobe and have different frames for different moods, occasions and outfits.” He said two for one offers make this a more achievable proposition.
Focus on Quality
Mr Engelbreth Hansen said that as well as creating fashionable, affordable frames, Specsavers is focussed on achieving high quality in the manufacturing process.
“In addition to design, the manufacturing process is something that really excites me. It’s all about quality. Mazzuchelli has become our partner – we work with such high volumes that we are able to partner with them to develop our own acetates. And we now source our spring hinges from three European suppliers in Austria, Germany and Italy.
“Many of our competitors now have their frames manufactured in the same factories we use – they see our use of particular factories as a stamp of approval because our quality standards are stricter than the industry. We are very particular about this because we want to protect our brand.”
Over 200 Pieces
There are more than 200 new pieces launching throughout autumn/ winter from designer collaborations and Specsavers’ own ranges. Highlights include colourful ranges from Australian designers Alex Perry and Collette Dinnigan. Iconic pop princess, Kylie Minogue, will also launch a new range which features a metal square frame with a pink fashion tint lens.
Joining the Specsavers’ designer portfolio are several exclusive international designer collections, including an iconic and colourful range from Parisian design powerhouse, Kenzo; while British fashion brand Red or Dead will unveil a collection of glasses featuring interchangeable arms. A range of Specsavers frames with removable nose pads ensures a comfortable fit option for those with lower nose bridges, higher cheekbones, and wider faces.
“The aesthetic of the autumn/winter ‘19 collection chimes perfectly with our own aspiration to see specs wearers express their individuality through the glasses they wear,” said Mr Engelbreth Hansen.
