Giving Tree Eyewear, an eco-friendly eyewear company based in Southern California and co-founded by Austin Sands and Christian Abbott, debuts with two sunglasses in six colors. Frames are made of homopolymide nylon (BPA-free plastic), which has low density, high resistance to chemical and UV damage, and extreme flexibility and durability. All styles are equipped with polarized lenses. The sunglasses are offered in both traditional black and tortoise, and also in combos with vivid colors such as red and aqua. Additional styles are planned for spring 2014.

PHILOSOPHY: “Giving Tree Eyewear is inspired by my favorite sunglass styles. I took these timeless shapes and changed the size, wrap, tilt and most importantly the material. The result is a perfect pair of shades for an active lifestyle—ultra-comfortable, durable and eco-friendly,” says Austin Sands, Giving Tree co-founder. “Also very important, the eyewear is made in California.”

MARKETING: A percentage of all profits are donated to multiple charities, both environmental and eye-related. The sunglasses are packaged in a 100 percent recycled chipboard box with a pouch/cleaning cloth made of recyclable microfiber and a seed-paper warranty card that can actually be planted.

PRICE POINT: $$$

CONTACT: For additional information, contact Giving Tree Eyewear,
website: givingtreeeyewear.com

INSIGHT
Austin Sands is a fifth generation music major and second generation entrepreneur who formerly played with the pop sensation Metro Station. He currently writes and plays for his new project Euphoric. He attended Musicians Institute while learning the family business of eyewear, jewelry and high fashion. Christian Abbott also has a background in luxury eyewear as manager of Chrome Hearts Eyewear.