Two trends all the relevant eyewear designers share are: chunky cateyes and oversized lens sizes.  Originally a sunglass, (Tom Ford has a habit trading tinted lenses for clear) the Astrid shows even more of its mid-century Brazillian influences as an eyeglass. Recently I read that Tom Ford stated that the Fall/Winter 09/10 ad campaign is focusing on the accessory with no clothes around to distract the viewer. I don’t know if I quite agree with that, some would probably say the campaign is a little more than vulgar. Unfortunately the Astrid TF 139 is too cool to ignore.

TOM FORD delivers a striking evolution with Resort ’09. Mr. Ford develops some of his hallmark silhouettes to become even stronger, and presents new shapes that effortlessy blend Brazilian design influences – from 1950′s vintage to ultra minimalism – destined to be worn by those with iconoclastic personal style.

The sunglasses for both men & women continue to refine the TOM FORD vision of sexy, high-impact eyewear. Throughout the collection, subtle detailing reinforce the core values of the TOM FORD EYEWEAR brand: high design, precious materials and a rare combination of timeless style with a very modern edge.

“In this moment, eyewear is becoming more important because it is an immediate and accessible way to express your personal style – even if your clothing stays very simple.” – Tom Ford

The sunglass pictured is TOM FORD Henri – TF141 is available in 3 colors at Black Optical.

Black Optical will host a Tom Ford trunk Thursday March 26, 2009 from 2-7pm.  In addition the Tom Ford Summer ’09 eye and sunglass collection, DSquared2 will showcase their debut collection.  If you are interested in pre-ordering, feel free to call or visit the store.

The TOM FORD Spring/Summer 09 ad campaign features the limited sunglass ‘Carlos TF59‘. The aviator is constructed out of 22K Rose Gold & Palisander Santos wood, features Carl Zeiss optics and limited to 250 pairs. Included is a genuine leather case and vanity box. 

While flipping through old magazines, deciding which to keep or recycle, I rediscovered this issue of V Magazine from last year.  The editorial, photographed by Mario Testino, has Brad Pitt wearing the Tom Ford Cary TF58 as an eyeglass.  Turning sunglasses into eyeglasses is nothing new; this is a great example ways to create a new look with sunglasses that you don’t wear much but are not willing to part with.

Joaquin Phoenix gave quite an interview on Late Show with David Letterman last night. Most of his answers weren’t very coherent.  The only thing I really understood was Joaquin is recording a Hip Hop album. At one point he stuck his chewing gum under Letterman’s desk. Dave made no effort to hide his annoyance by the situation. Hopefully he doesn’t end his life with the same fate as his brother, River Phoenix.

Now on to his sunglasses. He seems to be quite a fan of Tom Ford’s ‘Jack‘ sunglass.  Joaquin wore the Jack during the interview with Letterman and at the Cinema Society/Salvatore Ferragamo screening of ‘Two Lovers’. Brad Pitt famously wore this sunglass, but in my opinion Phoenix has a better face for this sunglass.

Once a month the Tulsa World runs an article titled 'Ask A Local'. The 'Local' is asked his/her Top 5. Black Optical made the #1 spot in Dustin Thames '5 favorite Winter Retreats'. Loose Leaf Co., art gallery owned by Black Optical's graphic designer, made his 5th spot. What follows is an excerpt from the article.  If you would like to read the full article click the photo.  

 Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean there aren’t places to go and people to see. Dustin Thames works for Parker & Accociates Realtors and serves on the leadership team for TYPros, so he knows his way around T-Town. When the weather outside is frightful, these are his five favorite winter retreats.

“They are friendly atmospheres that comfort an inspire,” he said. “You owe it to yourself to venture out and explore.. especially when it’s cold outside.”

1.Black Optical – Favorite jeans, favorite shirt, no matter. You don’t wear them every day. Glasses you do. No one knows eye and sunwear like Gary Black. Black Optical is a local, design-conscious store for the most important accessory.

5.Loose Leaf Co. – A collective show space for local artists across many media, this gallery houses art that speaks to both new and seasoned art collectors.

In case your wondering, he is wearing Tom Ford eyewear.

Dustin, if your reading, thank you for such kind words. We really love your continued support and your appreciation for great design.  

Sitting front row at Rag & Bone’s SS’09, Charlize Theron is seen wearing TOM FORD’s Marcella TF80 in black. Her friend [photographer Craig McDean] is wearing Persol sunglasses.

The ultra-mod sunglasses feature in the actual show are pretty hip too.  They look like a Prada that arrived over the summer.

Wondering what James Bond is wearing in Quantum of Solace?  Not only is his tailoring by Tom Ford, but so are his sunglasses.  It’s a modified aviator called the ‘Airman’.  I was able to get my hands on a few pairs, but for now they will only be available in store.