CITYist

Giorgio Armani’s new optical eyewear collection is a calculated brew of innovation and nostalgia. The resulting line of alternately classic and modern (but always quality) glasses are sure to capture the attention not only of those that wear glasses for necessity, but those that do for style. Thirteen men’s models (that, Armani is quick to point out, could double as women’s for the truly bold) and one women’s model are designed for eyewear purists who seek long-lasting, well-made products that ooze sophistication and shun flashy details.

The collection is divided into different themes, all drawing from past construction techniques and Armani’s own storied eyewear history. A series of Light Plastic models fashioned together by riveted pins (a procedure from the 1940s) prove to be ductile and practical, while an aviator model draws from Armani styles of the 1990s. Other designs garner inspiration from the 50s and 60s, with a range of shapes and colors from square to round and light gold to matte black. The Plastic Bold series, featuring a thick plastic reminiscent of mid-century styles a la Buddy Holly, continue their retro feel with shades of dark orange, light amber and blue. And let’s not forget the lone women’s design. Pure 50s fantasy, the butterfly-shape model comes in girly hues such as violet and pink crystal (or sober black, for the more subtle).

Overall, the collection’s blending of old and new seeks to create timeless shapes. Despite the simplicity, Giorgio Armani insists less is more. “Preferring pure designs does not mean eliminating all form of decoration, but rather simply avoiding artificial, uneasy or impossible forms,” he has said. The designs, we suspect, will speak for themselves.