Before becoming an optical dispenser, Bonnie Eason completed a fashion degree, giving her a unique perspective. She offers her 2024 predications in eyewear trends.
With the 2024 Pantone Colour of the Year for 2024 announced as Peach Fuzz (PANTONE 13-1023), I expect to see an influx of this colour, if not already, in our surroundings particularly in fashion and interior design. This colour, described as a “velvety peach tone”, was chosen for its warmth and “gentle lightness and airy presence that lifts us into the future”. For its impact on eyewear, I predict we will start to see a return of translucent frames in a big way.
“Despite the shift away from bright, chunky colours, there is one colour I think will dominate the next 12 months and beyond, which is green.”
These frames began their rise to popularity in 2016 with the Pantone Colour of the Year being Rose Quartz and since then have become a staple colour in eyewear such as black and tortoise shell. However, demand has softened in the past few years. In contrast to 2016 where we saw plenty of pink hues in these crystal frames, I predict we will get warmer undertones such as champagne, peach, apricot and beige.
Where chunky frames with a bold, solid colour have dominated eyewear trends during the past couple of years, we are now starting to see a reduction in this with new trends steering towards pattern, gradient tones or textured shape.
For someone wanting an exciting, standout frame be sure not to look past unique patterns. Not only do I see these being a forecasted trend for the rest of the year, but they also make a great display piece on the shelf that draws in the customer. With checkered prints being a big thing in interior styling now, I wouldn’t be surprised to see some of these patterns make their way into eyewear too.
While some frames such as the l.a. Eyeworks RYE in 904, which is a blue and white checkered print, will incorporate the pattern throughout the whole frame, one can also expect frames with patterned accents for those not wanting something so flamboyant.
Another emerging trend seems to be gradient or “ombre” frames. These frames typically have a darker or bolder colour at the top which fade to a lighter colour down the bottom, but may also just be merging two different colour tones halfway down the frame.
One thing to be mindful of when choosing this for a customer is that if it is a lighter colour at the bottom, that it does not clash with their skin tone. I am expecting this style to carry on for a while as it can adapt to each season whether it be two brighter colours merging in the warmer months or a more muted tone with an ombre effect for winter.
There isn’t a certain shape I think will be a particular standout, however I believe we will rapidly start to see less heavy, chunky frames, with the focus shifting to more detail carved into the silhouette instead. This style will incorporate different techniques added to predominantly acetate frames with either sanding/polishing methods or multi layered materials adding an extra dimensional effect.
These frames will most likely be seen in your higher end brands adding another tier of quality and point-of-difference. Even though I think we will see a mix of shapes throughout this year, I believe we may begin to see oversized frames return more towards the end of the year.
Despite the shift away from bright, chunky colours, there is one colour I think will dominate the next 12 months and beyond, which is green. I think the seasons will depict exactly which hue, with winter giving us deep emerald green, dark turquoise or bluey greens whereas spring/summer we will see more vibrant tones of green.
The fashion industry is always subject to change, however. With many spectacle wearers opting to purchase new frames annually or bi-annually, we are less likely to see fast fads and more inclined to see longer lasting movements. Keeping a collection of classic styles as well as fashion forward pieces is my biggest recommendation to ensure you are keeping all your clientele happy.
About the Author: Bonnie Eason is a qualified optical dispenser and practice manager at Evolve Optometry in Ulladulla NSW. She was also founding advisory board member for Optical Dispensers Australia (2022-2024).
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