EYEWEAR GETS A FACELIFT WITH THRILLING PANTONE COLOURS AND LUXE NEW STYLES

Pantone has designated ‘Viva Magenta’ as their ‘Colour of the Year’ for 2023, which is a vibrant reddish-pink hue that they describe as “an unconventional red for an unconventional time”. The colour is intended to unite individuals of all backgrounds who possess a zest for life and a rebellious spirit, according to Pantone, and it is daring, clever, and comprehensive.

Pantone claims that, in the midst of the technology era, they seek to derive inspiration from nature and the authentic world. Pantone 18-1750 Viva Magenta is derived from the red family and inspired by cochineal red, which is one of the most valuable dyes in the natural dye family and among the most robust and brightest colours known to man.

Says Adele Camarena, owner and director at Spectacle World: “We’re excited about the new colours for frames this year. Bright shades of fuchsia and neon pink have already established themselves successfully in the eyewear sector, but we also look forward to colours such as Robin’s Eggs Blue, Lavender, Every Shade of Unconventional Blue, Pastel Pink, Teal, Blood Orange and Green for summer.”

Pantone’s winter colours include Rose Violet, Tender Peach, Red Orange, Red Dahlia, High Visibility, Persian Jewel, Carnival Glass, Burnt Sienna and Kohlrabi.

Camerena adds that switching from your regular black or tortoiseshell to a striking pair may be intimidating, but is a quick and easy way to update your look. “If you’re not quite ready for the blood orange, look at pastels or jewel-inspired hues such as emerald green or deep red. These colours are the perfect start if you want to experiment.

“Pastels have a refreshing, soothing, and calming effect, making them a prevalent choice. This soft palette is effortlessly paired with deeper, more subdued hues, creating a balanced aesthetic that makes colour easy to incorporate into your everyday look. Pastels with warm undertones will continue to gain popularity as they complement lighter hair and skin tones, imparting a warm glow.”

The eyeglasses trend for invisible frames has been gaining momentum as a fashionable alternative for years to come. “Clear acetate frames are in vogue, making them a popular choice. On the other hand, stronger, deeper, and brighter colours convey energy, joy, and optimism. They exude confidence and are perfect for those with deep, warm, and clear complexions. We’re also seeing many combinations of colours in one frame, including blues, browns, pinks, and yellows. It’s another subtle way of introducing colour, but more daring than pastels on their own,” she says.

Camarena continues that they offer a wide variety of frames to suit everyone. “While specs follow trends just like clothing does, picking the perfect pair can be difficult. Eyewear is the most personal accessory, and the first thing people see. Under the guidance of an eyewear stylist, you can select the perfect frame and colour from this season’s ranges to complement your features, colouring, as well as style personality and get the perfect fit. Eyewear is, and will remain, the epitome of fashion and function.”

Camarena and her team are qualified eyewear consultants, having completed courses presented by the Eyewear Styling Academy.