Photo Credit: Anne et Valentin
Are you looking to invest in a pair of high-quality, long-lasting frames that radiate sophistication and style? Many independent eyewear brands are carefully crafted by skilled artisans and designers, ensuring continual comfort and timeless appeal. From playfully bold Anne et Valentin frames to unconventionally expressive Andy Wolf eyeglasses, the potential of luxury eyewear is limitless.
At a Glance
- Anne et Valentin: Handcrafted French eyewear that exudes passion, emotions, and individualism.
- MOSCOT: A fifth-generation family business that showcases the vibrant soul and downtown aesthetics of New York City.
- Ørgreen Optics: Dynamic and expertly crafted eyewear made with high-quality Japanese titanium.
- Rudy Project: Durable sports eyewear that ensures protection, comfort, and functionality.
- Garrett Leight California Optical: Contemporary and classic eyewear infused with the California spirit.
- Native Sons: Japanese handcrafted eyewear with the perfect blend of functionality and form.
- Andy Wolf Eyewear: Beautiful and artfully expressive eyewear that remains comfortable and durable.
Keep reading to learn more.
See Related: The 6 Best Independent Eyewear Brands Of 2024
#1. Anne et Valentin
Photo Credit: Anne et Valentin
Anne et Valentin is an exclusive French eyewear brand that was established in Toulouse, France, in 1984. The founders, Anne and Valentin, were intent on creating a revolutionary line of eyeglasses that blended innate playfulness, self-expression, and aesthetics. Their brand tells a story of love, one that was largely inspired by their personal life experiences. The brand embodies "haute couture," a French term that refers to the creation of high-end fashion.
Valentin's background as an optician and Anne's artistic skills and creative passion paved the way for them to develop a brand that was unlike any other in the eyewear market. What truly characterizes an item from Anne et Valentin is the expression, emotions, and feelings embedded within. Every frame showcases the freedom and independence that comes with being human.
Each set of frames from Anne et Valentin is, in its own way, a profound work of art, drawing inspiration from architecture, photography, film, fashion, and art. The brand is exceptionally passionate about experimenting with shapes, colors, and sizes to create eyewear that respects and empowers the individualistic character and personality of the wearer.
#2. MOSCOT
Photo Credit: MOSCOT
In 1899, the founder of MOSCOT, Hyman Moscot, arrived on Ellis Island from Eastern Europe and began selling ready-made eyeglasses from a pushcart. By 1915, he opened the initial retail shop for MOSCOT, later moving to a permanent location at 118 Orchard Street. In 2013, fifth-generation Moscot and the current Chief Design Officer, Zack Moscot, joined the business, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
MOSCOT frames feature a refined aesthetic largely inspired by downtown New York. The vibrancy of the city is infused into each frame, whether you opt for a bold statement piece or a pair of subtly minimalistic eyeglasses.
As a global fashion brand, MOSCOT remains at heart a humble neighborhood optical shop. Each item is designed, prototyped, and artfully handmade in NYC using durable, high-quality materials like acetate or titanium.
#3. Ørgreen Optics
Photo Credit: Ørgreen Optics
Based in Copenhagen, Denmark, Ørgreen Optics was founded by three friends, Henrik Ørgreen, Gregers Fastrup, and Sahra Lysell. Their mission was, and is to this day, to craft high-end eyewear for "quality-conscious people across the globe." Their handmade frames are sculpted in Japan, ensuring that each frame represents superior manufacturing and high standards of excellence.
Each aspect of Ørgreen Optics frames is carefully and artfully determined in the design process. The technical precision, dynamic design, and color combinations of their frames have established them as an international leader in premium eyewear. Despite their immense fame, Ørgreen Optics' team is comprised of individuals brimming with genuine passion, heartfelt determination, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Their innovative design, contemporary color schemes, and size variety ensure that every customer can find the right frame style. Their durable eyewear is made with high-quality Japanese titanium, which plays into the sleek craftsmanship of every item.
#4. Rudy Project
Photo Credit: Rudy Project
Few independent eyewear brands cater to ultra-active lifestyles the way that Rudy Project does. Founded in 1985, Rudy Project aims to improve the performance levels of athletes through high-end and expertly engineered eyewear. In addition to prescription glasses, the brand offers sports sunglasses, helmets, goggles, and other sports accessories.
As they continue chasing excellence, Rudy Project constantly experiments with new materials and technologies for frames and lenses. Their innate passion for sports and activity is the driving force behind their powerful and precise eyewear.
"Sport can make a significant contribution to your quality of life, and numerous academic studies show it can impact physical and mental health, social life, and life opportunities."
- Rudy Project
Rudy Project eyewear is handcrafted in Italy with the finest materials to ensure comfort, durability, and performance. In addition to their expert craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, the brand also focuses on sustainability.
Their #RidetoZero pledge helps the environment through eco-friendly practices that minimize the impact of Rudy Project products. This philosophy plays a large part in many of Rudy Project's processes.
For example, many products are made with Rilsan® Clear, a bioplastic derived from castor oil. These castor beans are grown by local farmers in Gujarat, India, who follow improved farm waste management practices.
Additionally, Rudy Project has adopted low-impact packaging solutions that minimize waste and single-use plastics. Their timeless and versatile eyewear transcends trends and can be worn for a wide range of sports disciplines and in everyday life.
Bonus: 3 Reasons Why You Need Multiple Pairs of Eyeglasses
#5. Garrett Leight California Optical
Photo Credit: Garrett Leight California Optical
In 2010, Garrett Leight California Optical (GLCO) was founded in Venice Beach by a group of passionate eyewear purveyors. They were led by Garrett Leight, who followed in his father's footsteps into the eyewear industry by creating his own exclusive line of luxury eyeglasses.
The studio of GLCO is located in the vibrant Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, surrounded by the very people, places, and stories that inspire each unique design. The easy-going California culture is infused in each frame, stamped with "VC/CA 90291" as a testament to the Venice roots.
GLCO sun lenses are made from scratch-resistant mineral glass lenses with protective coatings to ensure longevity, clarity, and visual acuity. GLCO strives to craft ethically crafted, high-quality frames that redefine modern eyewear.
Each frame takes years to design and master before it is released to the market. The quality materials, colors, and clean lines of GLCO eyewear are inspired by past eras and future generations, resulting in a carefully crafted frame that never goes out of style.
#6. Native Sons
The inspiration for the luxury eyewear brand Native Sons comes from trailblazers and free-thinkers who have shaped the world in the past and present. The founder, Tommy O’Gara, believes that every frame should have an equal balance of functionality and form while showcasing timeless beauty.
These highly durable and aesthetic frames are made from high-grade titanium and cellulose-based acetate to ensure comfort and a lightweight design. Native Sons eyewear is handcrafted by a small team of skilled craftsmen and artisans in Japan with customized hardware and exclusive materials.
#7. Andy Wolf Eyewear
Photo Credit: Andy Wolf Eyewear
Every frame from Andy Wolf Eyewear is truly special and carefully handcrafted by a dedicated team of spirited individuals. The innovative vision of this once-small business projected the brand into international recognition and acclaim.
Designed and crafted in Austria, Andy Wolf Eyewear produces classic eyewear that is honest, expressive, and beautiful. The local production and commitment to sustainability are at the heart of the brand, which paves the way for exceptionally engineered and artfully crafted eyewear.
Final Thoughts
The next time you stop by our Seattle-based eye clinic for a check-up, browse our curated selection of luxury eyewear to find a frame that speaks to your heart and mind. We carry a variety of products from each brand mentioned, including other exclusive frames from independent designers like Jacques Marie Mage and Barton Perreira.
Keep Reading: What Are The Different Types Of Eyeglass Frames?
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Oculus Eyecare is Seattle’s premier optometry practice and optical boutique for those looking to see and be seen in a new way. Located in South Lake Union on Denny Way, Oculus Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and exams for individuals and families in Seattle. Click here to schedule an appointment or a personal styling session. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.