Psb lookbook 2017 fa issuu

J O U RN A L 201 7

This page:

Front cover:

WASEEM Oliver Peoples, BYREDO Dark military with mirror lenses

IRENA Oliver Peoples, Remic Taupe with flash mirror lenses

Back cover: WASEEM Barton Perreira, Lafayette Black/silver with grey lenses

IRENA Barton Perreira, Winette Sea foam/gold with sea splash lenses

POUL STIG BRILLER

LIVET SKAL SES

Welcome to our first, very own lookbook.

fashion photographer based in Amsterdam who

We call it that because it’s not quite a magazine,

has clients like Yves Saint Laurent, Calvin Klein,

and not a catalogue either! We don’t do catalogues.

Tommy Hilfiger on her list. Besides being a lovely

We like the bespoke stuff; things that are made

person, Karen takes the most amazing pictures.

with passion. Things that stand out. Things that

Who will you meet in the following pages?

challenge the mainstream, like the beloved brands

Instead of booking professional models, we took

we carry. We are not here to sell mass-produced

to the streets of Copenhagen to find seven one-

spectacles and sunglasses, that’s not what we do.

of-a-kind characters. Fantastic people from very

We are here to present a carefully selected

different backgrounds. We asked them to share

portfolio of brands that you won’t find elsewhere.

their stories and wrote a series of short essays.

Brands that – like us – appreciate craftsmanship

Some fictional, some factual. See what you think.

and detail, rare and fine materials, and the process

We believe this is the perfect way to present

that comes with producing truly unique frames

a very special collection of frames. We believe

for a select clientele.

that this lookbook will show you just what Poul

Creating our first lookbook has aligned with

Stig Briller is about. We believe this is the way

that philosophy. Sourcing the right paper, finding

you should experience us, the way you should

the talent for styling, make-up and finding the

see us. As the headline says, we believe that life

right photographer. And we definitely found the

should be seen. Preferably through stunning

right photographer. Karen Rosetszky is a Danish

spectacles from our unparalleled collection.

Design & Art Direction Freedom Agency

Location Brønnum

Photography Karen Rosetzsky

Thank you Ashley Miller Color Club

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OLIVER PEOPLES

With a passion for surfing and travel, founder Larry Leight, sought a trade that would allow him creativity as well as freedom.

In 1987, the Oliver Peoples brand was born and the same year the brand was featured on the face of Andy Warhol covering German Manner Vogue – earning the brand an eternal spot in the market of high-end eyewear.

California Roots

Superior Craftsmanship

Oliver Peoples was founded in 1986 on Hollywood’s iconic Sunset

Each style in the Oliver Peoples collection is conceived and designed

Boulevard. Initially selling vintage American eyewear acquired at

in the West Hollywood headquarters. Using Larry’s knowledge as

auction, the brand launched its own first collection in 1987. From

a licensed optician, each Oliver Peoples frame is hand-crafted with

the beginning, Oliver Peoples had a passion for superior products,

careful attention to detail, sculpting and perfecting the materials to

a distinctive culture rooted in California, and an obsession with

achieve a balanced and refined final product. The technical process

service. The brand’s California roots remain fundamental to its

involves both state-of-the-art machinery and the human touch,

DNA, and inspiration is found in music, magazines, films, books,

such as the individual hand-insertion of the genuine pins and

fashion, travel, and other unique elements of the Los Angeles lifestyle.

plaques. Each frame is tumbled and polished, and finally handadjusted, carefully referring back to the original drawing created

Vintage Aesthetic

in the design studio in West Hollywood.

The first Oliver Peoples collections were inspired by a vintage aesthetic, which continues to influence the brand today. With

Future Visions

designs that are sophisticated and timeless, the subtle details,

Having built a reputation of innovation, the brand continues to

discreet branding, and delicate filigree patterns set Oliver Peoples’

seek opportunities to celebrate and share their culture. Their goal

vintage-inspired frames apart from other brands. Today, the

for the future is to be the most prestigious and culturally-distinctive

optical and sunglass collections include a range of styles from

eyewear brand in the world.

timeless, intellectual pieces with bespoke detailing to progressive, trendsetting fashion designs. Their frames speak for themselves and are characterised by superior design and careful attention to detail.

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COPENHAGEN THOROUGHBRED

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WASEEM Oliver Peoples BYREDO Dark military with mirror lenses IRENA Barton Perreira Winette Sea foam/gold with sea splash lenses

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“Flat lenses, aviator shapes and clip-ons all look like they were made for guys who ride 1952 Nimbus motorcycles.”

The sun is shining on this early summer evening in Copenhagen.

Waseem grew up, and although he graduated elementary

It’s 1981 and Waseem, a young boy born and raised in the city’s

school, he didn’t make it through high school. He knew he would

borough of Nørrebro, is playing basketball at an empty court not

never become the academic that his father had hoped for, but

far from his home. The other kids are long gone, eating supper with

Waseem did not let his parents down. What he lacked in the

their families, but Waseem isn’t done practising his hook shot.

classroom he made up for on the basketball court. The odd-one-out

The trials for the Under Twelve team are coming up and Waseem

over-performed day-after-day. Eventually, he made it to the first team

needs to be ready, especially as he is one of the youngest kids to

at the local club. But the adventure was not over for the young boy

be trying out. The boy has talent, no doubt, but he is not as tall as

who was now a teenager. He got drafted for the national team,

the others. He doesn’t have long limbs, hence, he is not an obvious

and would soon be going to college in California on a scholarship.

basketball player and definitely not a future professional. Or at least,

The kids from his childhood court – the ones who said he could

that’s what people said back then.

never make it – had been silenced.

School isn’t all that fun for Waseem. He’s no good at sitting

Today Waseem is a Creative Sales Director in the fashion

still and homework is a drag, especially compared to the many hours

industry. He has sold more high-tops and college jackets than he

spent on the basketball court. Hanging out with the crowd from his

can count, keeping the basketball spirit from his younger years alive.

neighbourhood takes up most of his time off the court. The local

Waseem likes the old stuff, too, such as vintage motorcycles and

kids climb up on the rooftops of old war-era garages and shops,

sunglasses. To Waseem, it seems like we all had more time back in

stealing bikes and throwing water balloons at the trams going

the day, and he appreciates the craftsmanship of these heritage items.

down Nørrebrogade. The early eighties are a good time to grow

“People weren’t so busy back then,” Waseem reminisces, thinking

up in this part of town, one that would later become more rough.

about his childhood. Flat lenses, aviator shapes and clip-ons all look like they were made for guys who ride 1952 Nimbus motorcycles.

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Opposite: WASEEM DITA Space Black with grey lenses Top: WASEEM MOSCOT for Poul Stig Briller MILTZEN Matte amber Bottom: WASEEM AHLEM Concorde White gold with G-15 lenses

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DITA

Dedicated to creating artistic statements for a loyal clientele who demand eyewear unbound by convention, LA owners and lifelong friends John Juniper and Jeff Solorio say that DITA is a way of life. Established in 1995, the bold brand was founded on an ambition to change the market of women’s eyewear, and to create innovative, finely crafted eyewear with a totally unique look and feel. So what does the future hold for the unconventional brand? We had a chat with founders John and Jeff.

Tell us about how DITA began.

focusing on creating the highest level of eyewear available on the

It basically began with two best friends wanting to take women’s

market today. We judge ourselves harshly and have an exceedingly

eyewear to the next level. In 1995 eyewear was conservative, and

high standard of design and quality. By default, it means that the

we wanted to create something that our friends would want to

people we work with have a very high threshold for excellence

wear rather than our parents. Our focus was to be a style-led brand

and attention to detail. A lot of design and product is scrapped if

focusing on high-end fashion boutiques. We came out with crazy

it doesn’t pass our standards. We are often asked with whom we

gold cat eyes with pink lenses and large cobalt blue bubble frames.

compete, but the truth is that it’s ourselves: we are a category of

Everything was loud and pushing the envelope, and we attracted

one within our industry.

attention from brands like Barneys, Fred Segal and H. Lorenzo at the time.

How would you describe the craftsmanship of DITA eyewear?

It has taken years of building relationships with the best craftsmen

How has DITA evolved since its formation in 1995?

in the eyewear industry. Everyone we work with has a specialty,

Like a child growing up. We didn’t know the first thing about

and we manufacture in some of the world’s oldest and most

eyewear design when we started, so we were learning by trial and

respected factories dedicated exclusively to producing eyewear.

error. The thing we did know was what we stylistically wanted to

We hand-select the best-of-the-best for each individual frame and

create. Along the way, we got exposed to different levels of quality

we like to play to the strengths of the craftspeople. We are about

manufacturing and what was possible. The success of our company

craftsmanship that celebrates the unseen. Over the course of 20+

came simply from the process of working: failing, succeeding and

years, you end up intimately involved in all the minute details.

learning. We’ve become literally addicted to the pursuit of better

We appreciate refining things that some people can’t even see.

design and higher quality. It’s like a drug. In the end, we just want to be the best at what we do.

What does the future hold for DITA? Continuing to push the envelope with design and craftsmanship.

What distinguishes DITA from other eyewear brands?

Expanding the brand portfolio. Bringing an ultra high-end DITA

We’re about depth and focus. We’ve dedicated over 20 years solely

sub-collection to the market. Those are our hopes and ambitions.

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BARTON PERREIRA

A mutual vision of independence and freedom in design was what brought together former Oliver Peoples president Bill Barton and designer Patty Perreira. Barely two years after leaving, they had launched the high-end Barton Perreira brand, and celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Orlando Bloom and Jessica Biel were wearing their styles. We sat down with CEO Bill Barton for a chat.

Barton Perreira is known for its distinct spirit and style.

production, one style can take up to eight weeks to produce. Each

What is it that makes the brand so unique?

step of the production process has a purpose to ensure the best

Patty's creative instincts set the brand apart. This includes her

overall quality and feel. Our overall goal is to make each style as

ability to design in so many mediums: different materials, sun,

well as it can be produced. We do not cut corners!

optical and more. Then adding the craftsmanship and execution Tell us about your next collection.

of the production that are second-to-none.

Our next collection for the fall has two new categories that we What is your inspiration?

are very excited about. One series has a super thin zyl front with

Inspiration comes from everything: art, fashion, colors. I think,

a streamlined titanium temple with vintage engraving. The other

for Patty, inspiration is pulled from so many sources it’s really

concept is combing plastics in a new way; it’s very special and we

hard to define it in a simple way.

can’t wait for everyone to see it! In our sun collection, we will be introducing a few surprises on the lens design and a peek at what

What goes into creating a pair of Barton Perreira eyeglasses?

we are bringing out for our 10th anniversary next spring!

The first steps are all focused on the design process. Patty will sometimes submit over 100 designs for consideration. Next, she will

What’s next for Barton Perreira?

edit that quantity down to 40-50 designs for prototyping. Once we

Next year is a very big year for Barton Perreira. Our 10th anniversary

receive the prototypes, we will meet to decide the final 20 styles for

will have many surprises on the design and collaboration fronts. Plus,

the new collection. The final process is very difficult, because there

a few more fun things that I think all of our great customers will

are always styles that we love, that didn’t make it into the collection.

love! Our European office has had the best start (opened Jan 2017)

Samples are then made for all of the new styles, and when we receive

that we could have hoped for, and we want to build on that in our

them, a final examination of the frame is made. Afterwards, small

second year. We will be offering more customised products for our

adjustments are made for the perfect balance and fit. For the final

European markets, special products that meet our customers’ needs.

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SIMON Garrett Leight x Mark Mcnairy Valdese Brandy tortoise SABINE Garrett Leight x CLARE V. Èclat with Plum lenses

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WHEN LOVE COMES TO TOWN

...It happens when you least expect it

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SIMON Barton Perreira Aalto Champagne silver SABINE Poul Stig Briller Walther Light amber

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It was a hot one. It was late August and the past week had been

ask but being the quiet gentleman he was, he couldn’t bring himself

blazing in the city. Dry heat, low thirties. Simon had just finished his

to it. Maybe it was better to just carry on reading his paper. In a split

shift at the shop where he had been working for the past three years

second, Sabine glided over and stood right in front of him. “Is this

– a luxurious menswear boutique specialising in made-to-measure

seat taken?” she asked, pointing to the chair next to him. Although

suiting. Life was going well for Simon. He held one of very few jobs

Simon was alone in the courtyard and there were some twenty vacant

in his field and all the right people knew his name. Last month he had

other chairs, she chose the one right next to him. “No, please have

had the pleasure of tailoring a bespoke suit for a Hollywood celebrity

a seat”, Simon replied. For a while they just sat there, saying nothing.

who was in town for a big premiere. And earlier in the year he scored

Only interrupted by a waiter serving Sabine a glass of cold rosé

his dream apartment in the old part of town – a stunning 5-bedroom

although she hadn’t ordered any. Sabine took a sip and while leaning

for the price of a 2-bed on an infinite lease. Life was good.

back she confidently asked: “So, are you from around here?”

There was only one thing missing in his life: that special someone

Sabine had packed everything, or at least what she wanted

to share it all with. Simon had always been busy with his education and

to keep – clothes, shoes, hats and the small, ceramic bedside lamp

then his career; he wasn’t that big on Copenhagen nightlife. He had his

she had inherited from her grandmother – in just one hour. Having

priorities straight: study hard, work hard, make a career for yourself.

travelled thousands of miles over the last couple of years, trying

Then Ms. Right will come along if it’s meant to be. On top of that,

on different cities to find her place, she was quite the quick packer.

Simon was a bit of a loner. He spent all day chit-chatting to strangers

From Paris to New Dehli to Queens, New York, she still hadn’t felt

at the shop, telling them this and that about this fabric and these rare

that spark of connection, when exploring the world in search of her

buttons. After work the last thing he needed was to chat to people he’d

future. After returning to her hometown, Aarhus, the walls in her

probably never see again.

tangerine-colored one-bedroom had started to cave in, and her soul

But lightning struck on this hot summer evening. Simon sat

yearned to wander. Now, six days after seeing the job posting at a

down in the courtyard of his local bar around the corner from the

renowned spectacles boutique in the heart of Copenhagen, she had

shop. He’d ordered his usual and picked up the newspaper in order to

arrived. Arrived to her, possibly, new home city. Or, maybe, just to

catch-up on current affairs. All of a sudden it was like the wind died

another location on her journey onwards.

and time stood still. Like someone very special had entered the little courtyard. Simon looked up, puzzled. A good ten yards away stood

“Uhm yes, yes I am”, Simon responded and straightened up in his chair. “Are you?” he asked.

Sabine, a beautiful young woman with flaming red hair and cherry

“Not exactly.” she answered with a smile, and the talk continued

red lipstick. Simon couldn’t see her eyes for the designer mirror-

for a bit until they both ran out of words. There was a moment of

sunglasses, but he had a feeling she was looking straight at him. On

silence. “l like your hair” he gently said. “I like your sunglasses” she

the ground on each side of Sabine stood two suitcases. Was she new

responded as her eyes lit up. And so, another round of drinks was

in town? Had she broken up with her boyfriend? Simon was eager to

ordered in the corner of the courtyard on this hot summer evening.

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Opposite and this page: SABINE Garrett Leight Wilson sun shield Pink blush with pink halo mirror

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“I guess it’s true what they say about love...”

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AHLEM

Ahlem Manai-Platt’s passion for eyewear started when she was four years old, while watching her mother and aunt get ready to go out. While most kids would reach for their mother’s lipstick, Ahlem wanted her mom’s sunglasses. Years later, the Parisian girl’s love for accessories and eye for detail would lead her to create her high-end brand AHLEM. Today, the “ je n’ai sais quoi”-feel and sophisticated designs have achieved an aura of exclusivity that excites the savviest shoppers and celebrities.

French Irreverence in Venice

the materials, sourcing vintage acetates from the archival stock

Tunisian by heritage, Ahlem was born and raised in Paris and

at the Mazzuchelli factory.

educated at Le Sorbonne. After years of working in fashion retail,

The designs are rarely dictated by seasonal trends, as Ahlem

Ahlem started her own consulting firm. Finally, on an April day

likes to approach each new design as organically as possible.

in 2014, DHL delivered her first stock to her doorstep. A result of her own drawings and conversations with a French artisan eyewear

When Beyoncé Became a Fan

factory, this collection was what led her to full-heartedly pursuing

In just over a year from her launch, AHLEM earned a half-page

her dream of creating accessories.

spread in Vogue and support from superstars like Beyoncé, who purchased two pairs of AHLEM sunglasses while shopping in Paris.

Now an LA resident, the Parisian loves the happy, laid-back vibe

Beyoncé, Kate Moss and Kendall Jenner are just a few of the

of the Californian city of dreams, and is excited to be a part of the community of cool artists, chefs, designers and creative types. It all

brand’s famous fans, and legions of stylish It girls have been sporting

influences the way she designs, and the mesh of Paris meeting Venice

the distinctive, handmade sunglasses that have special details like

inspires the brand’s classic silhouettes with contemporary twists.

a brushed rose gold finish or a distinctive nose bridge. While being overwhelmed with the celebrity acknowledgements, Ahlem stays

In 2016, Ahlem marked the brand’s two-year anniversary by opening AHLEM Venice Studio, a retail concept and studio space in

grounded and true to her understated aesthetic. And one thing she’s

Venice, CA, and the brand is now found in retailers all over the world.

sure of is that she’ll never do statement pieces, or having her frames as “the noisy one” in the room.

Understated Luxury Playing off her French roots, Ahlem names each frame after a famous

On Motherhood and Kanye West

landmark or neighbourhood in Paris, injecting the foundation of

After becoming a mother last year, Ahlem compares watching her

the brand into every style and making sure each frame captures the

son grow and change to the growth of her brand. Seeing him learn

feeling and colours of that particular place.

new things about himself and the world around him informs how

Ahlem is also inspired by architecture, especially from the

she feels about her brand as well: they’ve had a lot of success in a

50s, as well as interior designers like Charlotte Perriand and

very short time, but they’re still growing and learning. And while

Le Corbusier, and the work of Danish designers like Arne Jacobsen

she can’t wait to see what happens next, she knows she wants to take

or Poul Henningsen.

things slow. It’s not her goal to explode on the market; they can’t,

Designed in Los Angeles, all frames are handmade by artisans in Oyonnax, France, with nine artisans working on just one frame

simply because everything is handmade. She does, however admit to dreaming of seeing Kanye West rocking her frames one day.

and taking more than a week to produce. Manai-Platt hand-selects

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MOSCOT

We sat down with the fifth generation member of the MOSCOT Empire, Zachary Moscot, to learn how the New York institution remains timeless and true to their values, 102 years after their first store opening on Orchard Street.

While MOSCOT has expanded to become a major global

What was the inspiration behind the latest collection?

fashion brand, it has maintained the feeling of a local optical

As the MOSCOT Originals collection continues to evolve over

shop. What’s the secret?

the decades we decided it was time to dive into more recent time

Family, excellence in service, and the very best in quality for the

periods. With fashion trends shifting, we were inspired to explore

right price. It may seem simple, but our secret is staying true to

New York in the 1970s. We took a look not only at the MOSCOT

who we are and always remembering where we came from.

products from that era but also the archived photographs and noted

The brand has developed over the decades and through the

what my grandfather was wearing, for example, and the types of

family to become what it is today, but never losing the focus of

characters in the shop at the time. This expression of MOSCOT

the local optical shop, for which we were known, and still are,

and this feeling of the Lower East Side during this time was the

on the Lower East Side.

inspiration for the oversized aviators with the added touch of gold bling. We also emphasised some of the unique elements of these

What distinguishes MOSCOT from other eyewear brands?

models by combining materials in a unique way while using our

It’s really an authentic 100+ year old story. MOSCOT is deeply

core colour palette.

rooted in downtown New York and our DNA prevails in all facets of the brand. We believe our customers connect with our products

How do you see the brand evolving?

emotionally and truly understand the depth of our origins.

We are not a closed book. Heritage and service is important but

With now five generations focusing only on eyewear and eye care,

we also focused on evolving our story. Our focus is to continue being

we are truly passionate about what we do. It comes from the heart.

who we are and not lose sight of our core values in everything that

These core values are still at the forefront of our family brand.

we do. While growing brand awareness is important, it’s critical

We are accessible, strive for top quality, and we believe we have

to us that we continue to evolve organically and not grow too quickly

the expertise and drive to keep on improving and developing.

or do anything for the wrong reasons. We want to do what feels good, and my father and I want to enjoy the process of being in business

How would you describe MOSCOT’s core values?

together the same way my grandfather did with his father. The goal is

My father always tells me, “We were born on Orchard and we

that the legacy can carry on beyond the fifth generation, and in order

will die on Orchard”. We are the local shop that provides for the

to do so we believe we need to continue servicing our customers and

ultimate experience in eyewear and customer care. I’d say we are

creating sustainable designs that our loyal fans will appreciate.

humble, honest, fair, and hopefully memorable!

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JASPER MOSCOT for Poul Stig Briller Miltzen Amber LINDA Barton Perreira Olina Black with silver mirror lenses

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JASPER MOSCOT Originals Shtarker Gold LINDA AHLEM Place des Pyramides Champagne windsor with brown lenses

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Jasper almost slipped in the wet grass as he snatched the ball from

families and the sense of rootlessness it had created within her.

his broad-shouldered, angry-looking opponent, breathing as heavy as a bull facing its Matador. Being quick on his feet, he swiftly

It had been her dream for years. And now she had finally gotten the courage to move and to start a new chapter.

regained balance. As he ran off towards the goal, he suddenly

As she opened the door to the auditorium, late for class, she

realised it was just him and the goalkeeper. As sweat ran into his

scanned the room, quickly spotting an empty seat behind two guys.

eyes, he knew he had to make a quick decision so he went for it –

One of them had short, dark hair and a t-shirt revealing firmly

and kicked. When he opened his eyes, the crowd was cheering and

toned arms. Her thoughts wandered to her past and to her teenage

jumping up and down. Even though it was only a standard seasonal

boyfriend back in high school. What a love, she thought, and she

match against the neighbouring school, his goal had won the match

sighed while sinking back into her chair.

and he felt like a king.

As the lecture went on, she kept looking at the guy in front of

“Hey, soccer boy!” a female voice yelled as he turned to hit the

her. Daydreaming, she reached out for her water bottle, apparently

showers with his team. As he turned around, a girl with big curly

open, as it tipped over spilling all of its content onto his back. Gasping,

hair, torn denim shorts and a Lakers basketball shirt appeared.

he turned around and their eyes met. Time paused. “Jasper…?”

He squinted as the sun hit his eyes, but as he looked again a pair

It’s a sunny day in Copenhagen as we meet a happy couple

of big green eyes smiled. “Wanna go get a soda after the game?

sitting on a park bench. Their names are Jasper and Linda. And

My treat after that show you just put on”, she said, arrogantly

it would take more than ten years for the two former teenage

pointing her chin to the sky. This girl wasn’t going to make

sweethearts to join paths again.

things easy, he thought, staring open-mouthed at her beauty.

Jasper agreed to the soda, which he also ended up paying for

“Linda was going through a rough chapter. And I was being a kid, not understanding too much”, Jasper says and puts his arm

himself. And the soda turned into a kiss. And the kiss turned into

around Linda. “And, admittedly, I was juggling with quite a temper

dating, which turned into a classic teenager love story.

too”, Linda smilingly adds.

Linda stormed through her apartment, looking for her

While their teenage relationship was intense and bittersweet,

favourite Farah Fawcett aviators. She was late for class and she

time has gone by, and the teenagers have grown into adults. Some

cussed at herself. It was the first class of her third semester at

fiery characteristics still remain, adding sparks to their, otherwise,

school, which she had transferred to get a fresh start. Going

rose-coloured universe. Jasper finally adds: “She’s mad but magic.

somewhere. Somewhere away from her childhood neighbourhood

She simply can’t help but stand out in a crowd!”

and all the stressful memories of her parents’ divorce, their new

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“She’s mad but she’s magic. She can’t help but stand out in a crowd!”

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“He’s gives me a feeling that I can’t put into words.”

JASPER Garrett Leight Wilson Sun Bourbon tortoise with brown lenses LINDA AHLEM Gare st Lazare Smoked light with mirror lenses

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CHROME HEARTS

From its inception as a leather motorcycle-gear company, Chrome Hearts has evolved into a revolutionary fashion label and cultural phenomenon. And while Richard Stark, the man behind the brand, is a strong opponent of the word “ luxury”, it’s safe to say that Chrome Hearts isn’t just a silver-studded brand; it’s a star-studded lifestyle.

Artistic Freedom

a creative process nurtured solely on the instincts of Richard and

The Chrome Hearts story begins in the late 1980s, when Richard

Laurie alongside their oldest daughter, 23 year old Jesse Jo.

Stark – at the time a high-end carpenter – was offered a job making costumes for the comedy horror film “Chopper Chicks in

A Rock N’ Roll Institution

Zombietown”. He created Chrome Hearts, set up a shop, and soon

From carpentry to high fashion brand, Chrome Hearts has earned

word-of-mouth spread to rock stars like Sex Pistols, Lenny Kravitz,

extensive acknowledgement in the art, music, fashion and design

the Cult and Mötley Crüe.

worlds. Despite its rebellious approach to classic fashion, Chrome Hearts received the prestigious CFDA Accessory Designer of the

Soon after, he met Art Director Laurie Lynn, whom he married, and she joined the company as a partner. Opening their

Year Award in 1992. Furthermore, the brand has been selected

first freestanding store in New York City in 1996, the brand now

to join exclusive exhibitions at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

has over 25 stores across the United States, Asia and Europe as well

in New York, at The National Science Museum in Tokyo, and at

as exclusive stockists like Bergdorf Goodman in New York and

LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art).

The brand has also engaged in a partnership with the Robert

Selfridges in London. Meanwhile, the brand’s campus, covering some three city blocks in the middle of Hollywood, remains a

Mapplethorpe Foundation and exclusive collaborations with iconic

multifaceted factory and design studio.

band Rolling Stones, Adidas, a Bathing Ape, Rick Owens and recently with supermodel and a longtime family friend Bella Hadid.

Daggers, Crosses and Stars

Simultaneously, Chrome Hearts releases their own magazine, an

The life experiences of Stark and his family run palpably through

annual publication featuring a convergence of international art,

Chrome Hearts’ notable motifs, which include daggers, crosses,

culture and design from both emerging and established artists.

stars, spikes and fleurs.

Next Generation

With a relentless commitment to quality, almost every product is designed, manufactured and produced in small quantities to ensure

When asking Richard Stark about the future, he says he has always

absolute attention to detail at the factory in Hollywood, California.

had a dream of building a 150 year-old family company. What the

The vast line includes handmade jewellery in sterling silver, gold,

next generation will be, he doesn’t know. But with the brand’s latest

platinum, and precious stones, apparel, accessories and handcrafted

addition to their portfolio – setting up rock shows in Richard’s

furnishings in exotic woods.

upstairs office – who knows! Maybe there will be a Chrome Hearts

Challenging the conventional fashion calendar year, Chrome

television network one day.

Hearts presents new pieces as they are developed and designed;

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This page: IRENA Chrome Hearts Glitter Goo 1 Black with brown lenses Opposite: UNA AHLEM Place Violet White gold

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“My BFF means more to me than boys.

- Boyfriends never last, anyway.”

When you ask BFFs Una and Irena about what brought them together, awkwardness is the answer.

Much has changed since the pink tutus. Jobs. Homes. Boys.

But the status of being BFFs remains. And what does that status

On a moody October day with doubtful skies and gusts of

even really mean?

wind twirling dead leaves, two little girls with pink tutus walked

“The awkwardness that brought us together has vanished now,

across a parking lot. Both led by the steady hand of their mothers,

making us BFFs rather than just friends. With a true BFF there’s is no

they approached the AL School of Dance.

awkwardness when the bill comes, or when asking for a sincere opinion

Irena was furious about having to go to dance class and for her

on something. There’s full transparency and trust”, Irena says.

mother making her wear a tutu. Una was terrified. She’d only been

The story of Irena and Una’s friendship wasn’t quite so simple.

in Denmark for 4 months, since her father’s’ job caused the family

They actually didn’t see each other for more than seven years.

to move. She didn’t speak Danish. Or dance, for that matter.

Until one day they bumped into each other during the Copenhagen

But into the ballroom both girls went. The slender, blonde

summer. The chemistry was unchanged, and it seemed like they had

dance teacher put on music and asked the children to couple up.

never been apart. “In spite of having other close friends, Irena was

Now, groups started to take shape and little whispers created a

the first person I would call if I was in trouble or if I wanted to make

hum. Except for the two little girls in pink tutus, who stood by

trouble”, Una says with a smile in her eyes.

themselves. “Do you have a partner?” Irena asked the other girl.

“No, no partner”, Una shook her head.

The story of Una and Irena’s friendship has had a unique path.

From being born in different countries to uniting over a tutu in

As the teacher raised her voiced to explain the first move,

a ballroom. From not seeing each other for seven years to randomly

Irena’s arm brushed Una’s tutu and her little bracelet got stuck in

meeting each other in the street again. And that might just be one

the tulle. The girls stopped moving and for a moment they just stood

of the ingredients to a healthy BFF-relationship. Overcoming even

there like two deer caught in the headlights. Suddenly a smile formed

the toughest of obstacles, both in childhood and adulthood.

on Una’s face. She took off her tutu. Irena stood there, stunned. She

Regarding the future, Irena is clear on dealing with at least one

realised that she might just have met someone who disliked wearing

of the obstacles of adulthood: “My BFF means more to me than boys.

a tutu as much as she did. She untangled her bracelet, then took of

Boyfriends never last, anyway.”

her own tutu and returned to take Una’s hand. The girls went on to dancing and did so every Tuesday for next ten years. As partners.

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Opposite: IRENA DITA Arise Rose gold silver This page: UNA 8000 8M4 Copper with green lenses

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SABINE Poul Stig Briller Katrine Champagne with rose taned lenses

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Our own collection is characterised by simplicity and timelessness,

Each and every frame in our collection is designed and

staying true to the Poul Stig Briller spirit. It includes eight different

manufactured in-house. As such, our eyeglasses are built from

models, each named after our children: Eigil, Sylvester, Anders,

the ground-up, with attention to detail and the utmost respect

Katrine, Walther, Sara, Louise, and Rikke. While each model has

for the process. Through bypassing an intermediary, we are able

its own unique, charming characteristics, there are certain qualities

to keep the price reasonable, with each frame priced at 1650 kr,

that are common to the Poul Stig Briller collection. Namely, the

without ever compromising on quality.

simple frames and coloured lenses that are classic yet modern.

Choose from our extensive selection of timeless, beautifully-

Eigil, Sylvester, and Anders are available in three different

designed spectacles. First, select your favourite frame colour

frame colours, while the remaining models are available in five.

and shape, then choose the lens shade that matches you best.

Combining all the different models, there are 20 lens colours to

With so many options, you can select the pair of Poul Stig Briller

choose from, including shades of yellow, red, blue, purple, and

eyeglasses that suits you perfectly.

orange – lovely colours suited for any occasion. You can choose the shape and shade that matches you best.

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THE NAME COLLECTION

WALTHER

SARA

Light amber frame with dark orange lenses

Champagne frame with forest green lenses

SYLVESTER

ANDERS

Dark amber frame with clear lenses

Matte black frame with light blue lenses

KATRINE

LOUISE

Champagne frame with purple forest lenses

Dark mahogany frame with amber graduated lenses

RIKKE

EIGIL

Gloss black frame with clear lenses

Dark amber frame with brown graduated lenses

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FOUR FRAMES THAT MADE HISTORY

With identity being the milk of the caffe latte in terms of fashion,

Steinem. A recent Vogue article notes that the aviator is the design

it seems that people want a pair of eyeglasses and a lifestyle that are

of 2017 and that the curvy titanium frames are back in; more proof

compatible. And as fashion repeats itself, what better way to attain

that this frame will always cycle back into style.

this than by looking to history for inspiration?

Celebrities, leaders and other famous (or infamous) characters

At a newspaper office in Metropolis, we are introduced to Clark Kent. Along with his combed-back hair and red necktie,

have created identities that inspire generation after generation.

his black-rimmed glasses underline an introverted personality,

From rebels to intellectuals and innovators, let’s take a look back

deflecting suspicion that he is Superman.

at four frames that changed history.

Created in the late 1940s, the Superman frames, also termed

“Imagine”, John Lennon sings with a ball-round frame and long

“browline” eyeglasses, revolutionised eyewear fashion with their

hair, which would forever symbolise peace and Yoko Ono in crisp,

customisable design, becoming a fashion statement and the most

white settings.

popular glasses of the 1950s and 1960s. During these decades, the

Worn by Lennon, Mahatma Gandhi and Harry Potter, the

frames were popularized by highly-visible figures like Malcolm X,

round eyeglasses are simple and natural. They come across as honest,

KFC founder Colonel Sanders and cultural icons such as actor

intelligent, thoughtful and independent. The orb shape reminds

James Dean. Michael Douglas as “D-Fens” in the 1993 movie

us of the sun and moon. The simplicity of this design coupled with

‘Falling Down’ comes to mind. After losing the spotlight for some

the popularity of the frame at the time (it was fashionable in 1900s)

time, the browline frames came back in full force in the early 2010s,

may be what led Gandhi to choose this design. Some say it was the

when the TV series ‘Mad Men’ spread its 1950s nostalgia over the

minimalism and inspiration from Gandhi that led Steve Jobs to

cultural landscape. Some might call it nerdy, some may call it “the

emulate it.

intellectual frame”. But just like Superman, this powerful silhouette

Other famous Panto enthusiasts include Robin Williams,

will remain forever cool.

Ozzie Osbourne and Queen Elizabeth II. And while some say the frame represents characters that have soft demeanours but strong

From edgy to softer frames, there is finally the perfect combination of round and square.

personalities and intellect – we say that the Panto frame is an alltime classic.

Some call it the Lemtosh (a MOSCOT Original), others the “Truman Capote”. Favoured by thoughtful artists, the Lemtosh is

“I feel the need... The need for speed!”

the calling card for generations of creative, free-spirited intellectuals

Movie history was made in 1986 as we binged on popcorn

and artists. From Buddy Holly and JFK to Andy Warhol, Woody

while watching the hit movie ‘Top Gun’ play on cinema screens.

Allen and Johnny Depp, these frames remain one of the most

It was also a moment in fashion history, as the aviator style enjoyed

flattering and versatile frames on the market.

resurgence after being worn by Tom Cruise as Pete "Maverick"

In today’s world, children are told to embrace their inner

Mitchell; a patriotic USS enterprise pilot, rocking gold-rimmed

weirdness, to be quirky and stand out. One of the best things about

aviators to complete his all-American look.

fashion is that it allows us to recapture the past in some small way.

Back to its origin in the 1930s, American Lieutenant General

To dress as the bold, confident kids we all should have been. In this

John McCready requested sunglasses that could limit the glare from

way, people of all ages now have plenty of inspiration to draw from

the sun without restricting pilots' vision. A prototype was produced

in our portfolio of historic personalities.

in 1936, and thus the Aviator – or “pilot lens” – was born.

Part of this shape’s appeal is its androgyny, and it can be seen on both male actors and female supermodels, as well as some of

And so the question is: will history repeat itself or will we evolve yet again? Only time will tell. But in the meantime, let’s keep reviving and celebrating those good old classics.

the most iconic faces of the 20th century — from Elvis to Gloria

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Our boutiques — KØBENHAVN K

HELLERUP

FREDERIKSBERG

Østergade 24,

Strandvejen 187,

Gammel Kongevej 87,

1100 København K

2900 Hellerup

1850 Frederiksberg

W W W. P O U L S T I G B R I L L E R . D K