On September 9th, 2024, LA Eyeworks celebrated a milestone 45 years of pushing the boundaries of eyewear design. Founded in 1979 by lifelong friends Barbara McReynolds and Gai Gherardi, LA Eyeworks has become a hallmark of creativity and innovation in the independent eyewear industry. Throughout its history, the brand has remained committed to producing eyewear that is as unique and daring as the individuals who wear it. Known for their eclectic designs, high-quality materials, and visionary approach to fashion, LA Eyeworks continues to challenge conventions and redefine what eyewear can be.
The LA Eyeworks Journey: From a Small Shop to a Global Icon
When LA Eyeworks opened its first store on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, it quickly caught the attention of those seeking something different in eyewear. The founders, both opticians with an eye for avant-garde style, envisioned a brand that didn’t just sell glasses but told stories through their frames. This vision resonated with a growing movement of people who saw eyewear as a fashion statement.
From the beginning, the brand has stood out for its experimental shapes, bold color palettes, and the spirit of individuality embedded in each frame. LA Eyeworks doesn’t just create glasses; they create wearable works of art, where every detail has been thoughtfully considered. The frames speak to a diversity of tastes and lifestyles, allowing wearers to express themselves in ways that traditional eyewear simply cannot.
High-Quality Craftsmanship and Japanese Acetate
One of the many things that sets LA Eyeworks apart from other brands is its dedication to superior craftsmanship. The brand works with the finest materials to ensure that every pair of frames is durable and beautiful. Central to their production process is the use of high-quality acetate sourced from Japan, which is renowned for its strength, flexibility, and vibrant hues.
Japanese acetate is not only durable but allows for complex coloring and patterning, making each LA Eyeworks frame distinct. Unlike mass-produced plastic frames, acetate is formed from natural materials such as cotton and wood fibers, offering both sustainability and superior quality. The rich texture and finish of acetate allow LA Eyeworks to create frames that are striking in their individuality, with each piece offering a unique depth and richness
Collecting LA Eyeworks: Frames with a Story
LA Eyeworks offers a treasure trove of unique, high-quality frames that are both timeless and avant-garde. The brand’s dedication to producing limited-edition designs, often created in small batches, makes these glasses not just a fashion statement but also a collector’s item. The intricate attention to detail in each piece ensures that collectors have something truly special in their collection.
In many ways, LA Eyeworks frames are akin to collectible art. Over the years, the brand’s iconic designs have adorned the faces of celebrities, artists, and fashion-forward individuals, solidifying its place in the world of collectible eyewear. For collectors, owning a pair of LA Eyeworks frames is like holding a piece of design history, with each pair representing the brand’s enduring commitment to creative freedom and bold experimentation.
Looking Forward: A Legacy of Innovation
As LA Eyeworks moves into its 45th year, the brand shows no signs of slowing down. The company continues to innovate, offering new designs that surprise and delight, while staying true to its original mission of celebrating individuality. With each new collection, LA Eyeworks remains a leader in the eyewear industry, inspiring both customers and designers alike to rethink what eyewear can be.
About LA Eyeworks
Since its founding in 1979, LA Eyeworks has been an independent eyewear trailblazer. Driven by a passion for individuality and innovation, the brand consistently challenges conventional design. Through the use of premium Japanese acetate, each frame is meticulously crafted to combine bold aesthetics with high-quality materials. LA Eyeworks continues to draw inspiration from art, culture, and creativity, offering eyewear that speaks to those who value self-expression. With a reputation for imaginative designs, the brand remains a favorite among collectors and eyewear enthusiasts worldwide.
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About The Author:
Will Benjamin is an advocate for independent eyewear and one of the driving forces behind Project Spex. With a passion for unique, collectible, and limited-edition eyewear, Will aims to inspire people to build their own collections through Project Spex, while supporting the success of independent opticals.