Sàfilo USA launches the Balenciaga ophthalmic collection, consisting of six women’s acetates. In conjunction with the Sàfilo design team, Nicolas Ghesquiere, Balenciaga artistic director, has developed eyewear with pure lines in a palette of subdued shades—opalescent white, dark havana, black, khaki, horn and blue. The main sources of inspiration for the collection are design and architecture: modernity and the passion for shapes and construction so important to the founder, Cristobal Balenciaga. The frames are either simple rectangular shapes, reflecting the contemporary spirit of the fashion house, or fluid contours reminiscent of the label’s signature cuts and voluminosity inspired by architectural themes. Details consist of the double “B” logo and signature screws inserted on the temple tips.

 
Photographed by Annie Gallagher/Black Box studio


PHILOSOPHY:

“We are very excited to introduce the Balenciaga ophthalmic collection as a complement to the extremely successful sunwear line launched early last year,” says Dick Russo, Sàfilo USA executive vice president. “The new collection encompasses the visionary styling that embodies this distinctive brand and its exclusive distribution will reflect that.”

MARKETING:

Merchandising materials include one- and six-place displays and a logo plaque.

PRICE POINT:
$$$$$. For additional information, contact Sàfilo USA, (800) 631-1188, www.safilousa.com

INSIGHT
Balenciaga was founded in Paris in 1937 by Cristobal Balenciaga, a Spanish designer with a reputation for uncompromising standards. He was referred to as “the master of us all” by Christian Dior. Balenciaga’s bubble skirts and feminine, ultra-modern shapes were trademarks of the house. In 2001, Gucci Group acquired the brand in partnership with Nicolas Ghesquiere.