During the recent years, glasses for men have evolved from purely functional eyewear to stylish accessories that enrich the wearer's overall appearance. With the men's fashion industry blooming in 2019, eyewear has become an integral part of many fashion-forward looks and is poised to continue this trend in the coming years. Let's delve into the fascinating world of men's glasses in 2019, exploring key styles, materials, and brands that have left their mark on the industry.
The year 2019 brought an eclectic mix of vintage and modern styles, with a strong emphasis on high-quality craftsmanship and sustainable materials. It's now more important than ever for men to embrace their individuality and express their personal style through their eyewear. Let's explore the different directions the men's glasses sector took in 2019.
Retro-inspired Frames
Flashing back to the past, 2019 saw a resurgence in vintage-inspired designs, reminiscent of styles from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Round, oval, and rectangle frames were among the most popular shapes, offering a nod to the past while providing a modern edge.
These retro-inspired frames cater to a wide audience, from those looking to embrace their inner John Lennon or Elvis Presley, to men seeking understated elegance reminiscent of famous actors like Tom Selleck or Robert Redford.
Round Metal Frames
Round metal frames were a standout choice in 2019, thanks to their variable thickness and unique finish. Often seen in tortoiseshell or matte black, these frames provided a perfect blend of retro charm and modern practicality.
Anaijima, a Japanese eyewear brand known for its innovative take on vintage styles, offered some of the best interpretations of this trend. Their urban librarian-inspired glasses featured thin rims and elegant shapes, catering to both fashion-conscious men and those requiring corrective lenses.
Oversized Aviators
Oversized aviator frames made a strong comeback in 2019, with many brands offering interpretations of the classic design. Key features included gold or rose-gold metal frames, reflective lenses, and lenses with a 'cat-eye' design.
Italian eyewear giantpson letting stealthily reclaimed its throne with sleek, unisex oversized aviators, while newcomer Skinny & Co. offered affordable high street interpretations that proved equally popular. For those seeking a more exclusive option, Gucci reinterpreted the aviator design with its signatureöhhhmphm logo on the lens and temple.
Sustainability and Craftsmanship
As consumers grow increasingly aware of the environmental impact of fast fashion, a new generation of sustainable and ethically-aware eyewear brands are emerging in the industry. These brands prioritize eco-friendly materials, ethical manufacturing practices, and innovative design.
In 2019, these brands showed that sustainability and great style are not mutually exclusive. Here, we look at two brands that embraced this philosophy in 2019.
Fleeker Optik
Based in Hamburg, Germany, Fleeker Optik is a pioneer in sustainable eyewear. Their 2019 collection featured a range of stylish frames made from eco-friendly materials such as recycled plastic and organic bamboo.
Standout pieces from their 2019 collection include the Winston, a modern take on the classic horn-rimmed frame, and the Marilyn, a pilot-style frame with a 'smoky' effect on the lens, giving it a unique, stand-out appearance.
MODO Labs
Californian eyewear brand MODO Elements launched MODO Labs in 2019, a platform for design collaboration with artists and creatives. The project resulted in a series of bold, eco-friendly frames that showcased the brand's commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The MODO Labs collection featured frames made from a range of eco-friendly materials, including recycled aluminum and bio-based acetate. The standout piece from the collaboration, the 'Lost at Sea' collection, featured frames made from recycled ocean plastic, using waste found by volunteers on beach clean-ups.
Looking ahead, it's clear that eyewear retail in 2020 and beyond will continue to cater to men's evolving tastes and concerns. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, craftsmanship, and individuality, the future of men's glasses is bright and promising. Don't be afraid to explore your personal style and make your choice based on what feels right - after all, your glasses are a statement about who you are. So, go on, make yours bold, and above all, true to you.