As I mentioned in my last post, Emilyna (that's me!) is ALWAYS on the lookout for crazy sweet looking shades. Last year I was in love with the Lanvin jewel encrusted granny glasses that amazingly looked good on me (see photo above). This year I'm all about the gold toned/orange rimmed Ray Ban Aviators and futuristic shaped frames like the white Nasty Gal Jetson Shades. The hard part about having a sunglasses obsession is the constant turnover of trends and the possible consequences this could have on your wallet. Yesterday it was colorful wayfarers a la the Williamsburg hipster, today it's "cat eyes" and tomorrow who knows. This habbit could cost you a pretty penny to keep up... or at sites like Nasty Gal and Fred Flare you can find equally cool frames for a fraction of the price.
For all your high end needs one of my favorite boutiques is Ilori. With flagship stores in New York City (soho) and Beverly Hills, CA and smaller stores across the US just about everyone has access to this cool little company specializing in everything from the iconic brands like Chanel & Tom Ford to new/emerging designers and limited edition frames. The best thing about their boutiques- all shades are in open displays so you can try any pair on without the whole hassle of having someone open a case for you. The Beverly Hills store is a cut above in both variety and service so definitely stop by if you are in the LA area.
If you are into all things vintage and top notch customer service check out Hotel de Ville Vintage Eyewear. This place is renown for their rare and collectable sunglasses and wonderfully knowledgable owner Javier Brambila. I've yet to buy anything here but it's TOP on my list of things to do when I move to LA. A little "welcome to the neighborhood" gift to myself!?!
And finally if you are into the really weird and really rare frames Artsee Eyewear might just be the place for you. Written up in New York Magazine as "Best Sunglasses Store for Eccentrics" (2009) this boutique carries a small collection of one-of-a-kind eyewear and a rotating display of art installations. Check their website for events or just drop in and see for yourself. http://www.artseeeyewear.com/.
Until next time... whenever that is, happy shading!
