OFF-WHITE RELEASES FIRST FULL EYEWEAR COLLECTION
Off-White has launched the label’s first full eyewear collection. Genderless, avant-garde, and bold, the collection will arrive in stores throughout June 2021, and will feature shapes and silhouettes that exemplify Off-White’s well-known graphic codes: architectural linearity and of-the-moment aesthetics.
The eyewear debuted over a WeChat preview. One model—an oversized, square silhouette called the “Catalina,” replete with a red Off-White “Arrow” logo—will be exclusive to the app and to China. (Other colorways of this design will be available globally.)
Additional styles include a comprehensive range of concepts and colors, each with a singular, eclectic appeal personally overseen by founder and creative director Virgil Abloh. The “Marfa,” for instance, is a narrow, extended cat-eye (it’s available in hot pink and off-white colorways in addition to more traditional black and tortoise). The “Alps” provides a high-impact visual statement, with oversized shield lenses and wraparound frames at the temples. The “Manchester” takes an inverted trapezoidal shape and offers a late 1980’s vibe.
Both styles are distinguished by a play on volume, for a 3-D graphic effect. On the subtler side, there is the “The Cape,” which features a 1990’s-era inspired metal oval, manufactured with a coating of natural materials, to accommodate those with metal sensitives. The collection also includes the classic “Virgil” shape; the “Arthur,” a timeless rectangular option; the “Tropez,” an oversize mask; and the “Cady,” which embodies the iconic Off-White concept of holes with its lasered frame and lenses.
Throughout the Off-White eyewear collection, two branding motifs are used: a reinterpreted logo, which displays Off-White’s typeface with a riveted overlay on the text, and the iconic “Arrow” logo, which is intertwined with ivy detailing as a nod to the artisanship of Florentine jewelers. The “Arrow” and ivy mark also recalls bassorilievo, which is the Italian term for sculpted, low relief marble. Ultimately, Off-White eyewear presents a triple-balanced union of design, graphic, and art influences.
To introduce Off-White’s first complete eyewear collection, Abloh tapped the photographers Tanya and Zhenya Posternak to lens such talents as the supermodel Helena Christensen, the actress and model Justine Biticon, and the musician Lil Dre for a new campaign. This gathering of personalities speaks to Off-White’s core mission: to build and foster an interlinked community.
“I chose Helena, Justine, and Lil Dre because they each represent different worldviews and perspectives, yet they each embody everything I believe Off-White stands for,” said Abloh. “Creativity, perseverance, confidence.”
Off-White’s new spring/summer ‘21 eyewear collection also offers a virtual try-on option. The new collection is launched together with an AR Filter, available on the Off-White official Instagram account. Users will be able to try on the key styles of the collection along with a multi-level digital landscape, inspired by the deep connection between the brand and the community. Try out the Instagram filter here (best viewed on a mobile device).
The Off-White eyewear collection, which retails between $270 and $405, will be sold at off—white.com, farfetch.com, independent Off-White stores globally, select opticians worldwide, and select international retail partners.