I’m something of a reluctant glasses-wearer. As the owner of numerous pairs I know I need them (relentless squinting combined with the frequent hailing of off-duty cabs is proof and embarrassment enough), but mostly I forget or worse – can’t be bothered. Factor-in an exceptionally sunny day and I’ll quickly relinquish all hopes of identifying anything not in my immediate vicinity. In my book shades take priority (and yes, I could wear contacts but I don’t). The solution? Detachables of-course!
Garrett Leight California Optical, the Venice Beach-based eyewear brand (and purveyor of characteristically easy-going, quintessentially ‘Californian’ frames) offers the best solution. As if the Milwood‘s retro-inspired dapper design wasn’t enough, what makes this frame absurdly essential is its brushed stainless steel detachable front. Finished by-hand from cured and durable cellulose acetate, the 100% UV-protective lenses are easily removed to reveal the classic frame beneath. (That’s two for one which equates to a win-win in book, FYI.) Available in several color-ways including black and rose gold, the matte blonde-tortoiseshell with brushed silver hardware detailing had me at one fleeting glance.
– Garrett Leight California Optical frames make excellent additions to any carefully curated collection. Shop a selection of my favorites, including the Milwood, here. Photographs by Alexander Atkins.
