Sunday, January 29, 2012

Spectacle Presents Yellow Plus at Lawrence Park!

In his recent travels around the world, on the hunt for new and exciting collections to share with our clients, Spectacle founder and owner Jag Dhillon has come across quite an elegant collection hailing from a town north of Kyoto, Japan. 


Also available in half matte black, half polished silver finish.
The frames are constructed from titanium, featuring acetate temple tips.  The colour palette of the line consists of matte finished fronts in earth tones, Browns, Blacks, Olive, Violet and and Red. Each features a painted front with a polished, brushed finish in chrome or gold on the inner surfaces.


All design and construction of the collection is done in Japan where Yellow Plus emphasis the importance of having control of every element of the process.


"It’s our policy to coordinate the most reliable engineers in each field of component parts and processes and have careful arrangements over and to make confirmation on each production process.  We can control the slightest movements of lines in this way It is quite important for our production to make these kinds of confirmations."

The Alison, pictured in deep violet, matte finish.

The Chloe, in matte olive and polished silver.

Yellow Plus aims to produce styles that, although may be in line with current trends depending on year to year,  are intended to be styles that don’t date themselves to a particular season.

The Alec, shown here in matte chocolate with polished gold edges.

"We think the styles should be given the first priority. Therefore we don’t stick too much to the fashion of short life but we pursue the styles, which are appreciated to be beautiful constantly by users over the long period."

The Yellow Plus collection is available at Spectacle's Lawrence Park and Queen West shops for your viewing pleasure, because after all, Spectacle Loves You!

Friday, January 27, 2012

Mr. T's Be Somebody or be Somebody's Fool, Recoupin' 101


With all this talk about the state of the global economy, Mr. T sets us straight on how you can get more out of RECOUPING your losses when times get tough, watch and learn, friends:




That's first name "Mister," middle name "Period," last name "T."  Keepin the world turning since '52.


Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Oliver Peoples Presents The Soloist Collection

Spectacle is proud to announce another unique collaboration now available at our Queen West Boutique...


The Soloist is a collaboration series with emerging fashion label TAKAHIROMIYASHITA TheSoloIst., by Japanese designer Takahiro Miyashita. Previously known for creating the edgy cult menswear brand Number (N)ine, Miyashita is praised in the men’s fashion world as a true visionary.
 
"The Round" is the distinctive double bridge frame of The Soloist Collection.
 
As a fan of Oliver Peoples, he was inspired by the understated styling and attention to detail for which the brand is known.
TheSoloIst. frames were constructed under a “salvage” philosophy. It was important to Miyashita that nothing new was produced unnecessarily, and that when possible, stock parts from vintage eyewear be incorporated into the design. Old factories and warehouses were scoured for original pieces and turned out to be goldmines.

"The Round" in Aged Gold with Tortoise Brow Bar.      


Also very sharp in Brushed Silver.


When original parts could not be located, a year was spent replicating classical techniques with the original tooling used for Oliver Peoples frames close to 25 years ago. Finally the designs were infused with Miyashita’s original style and the combined parts were successfully reborn as luxury eyewear. The finished product is a masterpiece of old and new – vintage and vintage inspired.
 
"The Teardrop" is the Sunglass counterpart of the Soloist Collection.



"The Teardrop" continues the brushed, aged gold and silver look.



Also available in Matte Black, "The Teardrop comeswith Polarized and high-transmission lenses.


The rarity of the vintage parts makes these precious pieces a true collector’s item.
Miyashita explains, “This collaboration is going to be a new standard. I am very honored and grateful for the result.”
 
 
“The frames feel like a culmination of the many lessons I’ve learned over the years of designing with new and old technology,” says Larry Leight, Oliver Peoples Founder and Creative Director. “The styles are completely unique and at the moment they are hard for me to take off. I just really love them!”

The complete Soloist Collection is available at our Flagship Boutique at 752 Queen Street West!

Thursday, January 19, 2012

SPECTACLE ANNOUNCES THE EXCLUSIVE LAUNCH of THOM BROWNE EYEWEAR; licensed by DITA EYEWEAR



January 2012, Toronto, Canada -- Spectacle, the award-winning boutique, operating for over 10 years with three locations in Toronto, has become the authority for all things eyewear and sunwear.

Spectacle is proud to announce the exclusive launch of the Thom Browne Eyewear collection, a license deal forged with LA-based luxury lifestyle brand, Dita Eyewear.

We’re thrilled to be an exclusive destination for this highly anticipated collection as it's Thom Browne’s first foray into eyewear,” says Spectacle owner, Jag Dhillon.

Dita Eyewear, one of the fastest growing independent eyewear companies, has distinguished itself in the industry as the clear alternative to label-branded eyewear.

"We're compelled to push the envelope by challenging traditional industry standards and Thom Browne is a like-minded innovator who champions authenticity,” shares John Juniper, Dita cofounder. Jeff Solorio, Dita cofounder, elaborates, “We’ve designed exclusive pieces for Thom’s fashion presentations in the past. As we prepared for Spring/Summer 2012, our designs evolved into a super-luxe range of literal eye jewelry which prompted our first license deal with Thom Browne."

The premiere Thom Browne Eyewear collection features 20 styles that draw inspiration from the master architects, politicians, studio artists, industrial designers and professors of the 1940s, '50s and ‘60s. Acetate styles in specifically developed color combinations and treatments are complimented with genuine leather, and metal mesh side cups. All components were custom designed for each style. This exclusive collection is only available in Toronto at Spectacle locations.

Showcasing the most inspirational eyewear brands from the fashion, entertainment and design capitals of the world, Spectacle is looked upon internationally as a stage for designers to profile their next product launch.

"We are proud to have this exclusive launch in cooperation with Spectacle as we only look to work with the best and most influential optical retailers in the world." says Dita owner Jeff Solorio.


ABOUT SPECTACLE
Spectacle specializes in fine and particular eyeglasses and sunglasses. Over 2,000 frames from around the world are handpicked to ensure you will see a rare selection of exclusive designer frames, boutique collections and vintage styles. With over 50 years of combined industry experience, staff and onsite lab facilities will exceed your expectations for service and performance. Additionally, Spectacle also has its own quality control facility and specializes in contact lenses, eye exams, adjustments and repairs on all types of eyewear.

With three locations in Toronto, Spectacle will definitely satisfy your thirst for gorgeous glasses.

ABOUT DITA EYEWEAR
Dita Eyewear is the Los Angeles-based luxury lifestyle brand that is globally recognized for quality craftsmanship and definitive style. Founded in 1996 by childhood friends Jeff Solorio and John Juniper, Dita is the creative synergy of the co-founders’ passion for photography, fashion, design and culture.

Dita Eyewear’s timeless designs are distinguished amongst the most influential faces in fashion, entertainment and design. Dita co-founders have scoured the world to find the finest materials and veteran craftsman in Japan to hand make each frame – a process that requires over a year to perfect.

Jeff and John’s pursuit for excellence does not end at quality alone. In 2008, the two felt a social responsibility to help independently owned stores heighten sell-thru worldwide. As large corporations make it harder to compete during economically challenging times, Dita devised an educational sales system to revolutionize the way eyewear is sold – scalable results through 40% sales increase and testimonials from the world’s most sought-after retailers only validate the brand’s commitment. Visit www.dita.com to learn more.


For media requesting high res images or product for photography, please contact:

Spectacle PR Agency
Lexi or Tracey

DITA EYEWEAR MEDIA CONTACT:
Grace Hwang
Marketing Director

Seinfeld - The Glasses...

A staff fav at our Queen St shop.

Monday, January 16, 2012

Dallas Green Shows Spectacle some Love!

Our new BFF, the talented Dallas Green of Alexisonfire and City and Colour is seeing things a little clearer after a visit to Spectacle's Yonge and Lawrence shop!

Chillin' at Spectacle with Casey, our furry optician-in-training.
Dallas had the crew at Spectacle turn his Ray Ban sunnies into awesome custom digitally-made Rx lenses.  Digital lenses are highly customized to your prescription and made specifically for your frame.  This results in lenses with minimal edge-distortion and noticeably clearer vision.

That's going to come in handy as Dallas kicks off the next tour with City and Colour - catch them next at Massey Hall on Feb 10th!

Official video for "Weightless" from the album Little Hell by City and Colour

Whatever your vision needs, Spectacle's got you covered with unparalleled styles, service and lens solutions.    if you want the celebrity treatment, pay a visit to any of our three locations at Queen Street West, Yonge and Lawrence Park, and the Distillery District!

Friday, January 13, 2012

New and Awesome Barton Perreira Videos

The amazing creative team at Barton Perreira have come up with some amazingly creative videos recently and the team at Spectacle is head over heels for them.

Part 1 of the video series features Giovanni Ribisi introducing his "Ribisi" frame that he designed with designer Patty Perreira. The video takes place in an ideal creative setting inside container world. Surrounded by the things that inspire Giovanni's design, his 56 100 BN2 Austin Healey and Triumph motorcycle. Very cool stuff.
2011 Barton Perreira campaign featuring Giovanni Ribisi. Introducing the Ribisi. Designed by Giovanni Ribisi and Patty Perreira. from Barton Perreira on Vimeo.

Part 2 of the video starts off with the stunning Christina wearing her Ribisi frame and pulling up in her 58 100-6 BN6 Austin Healey. From there we watch scenes of her getting to a destination by avoiding the hassle of having to fly commercial, what a fabulous life!


Barton Perreira: Spring Summer 2012 campaign featuring "Oceans" by Puscifer from Barton Perreira on Vimeo.

The campaign concept and video direction for this was done by original BP concept man Tim Cadiente.

The Ribisi frame is on display currently at our West Queen West flagship but can be viewed at any of our locations by request, because Spectacle Loves You



If this is a preview of things to come we can't wait for what Barton Perreira have in store for 2012
.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Tina Does The Morning Show on Global!

Spectacle Frame Stylist Tina stopped by The Morning Show on Global TV yesterday to showcase some of Spectacle's most popular collections!



Among the frames modeled by the hosts were pieces from IC! Berlin, Barton Perreira, Thierry Lasry, Lindberg, Graz, Tom Ford, and Oliver Peoples.

Representing light and modern metals, Tina brought along these offerings from IC! Berlin:

IC! Berlin "Lundi" Sunglass, from the Tres Chic Collection, pictured here in Matte Gold.


IC! Berlin "Wladimir P." Men's Sunglass, pictured here in Pearl. From Denmark, the ultra-light and comfortable Lindberg acetanium collection:



Lindberg 1129, col AC59 For the heavier, trendier look might we agree with Tina's selections from Thierry Lasry and Graz:


Thierry Lasry, "Glazy" Sunglass in colour 38455.


The "C.P.S." by Graz, a recent addition to the Spectacle family.


Tom Ford's "Nikita" in glossy black completes the look of a femme fatale.


And for the classic, vintage inspired look, Barton Perreira and Oliver Peoples:


The "Banks" by Barton Perreira, retro-roundis still in vogue with a vengeance!



Oliver Peoples' "Luv" in Dark Tortoise, for the timeless cat's eye.


All the models seen on The Morning Show are in stock in various colours at Spectacle Boutiques, so pay us a visit and see the latest showcase styles! With three locations in Toronto, we are are your source for the best styles from around the world!