Vasuma Eyewear’s collaboration with architects Gert and Rasmus Wingårdh from Wingårdh & Wingårdh is a marriage of architecture and fashion. This limited-edition collection features three models as both glasses and sunglasses—VW1, VW2, and VW3—crafted with precision, utilizing high-quality materials such as Mazzucchelli’s M49 Eco Acetate. The collaboration draws inspiration from Gert Wingårdh’s iconic eyewear style, emphasizing contrasts between straight lines and rounded shapes, while combining matte fronts with polished finishes for a dynamic visual and tactile experience.
The Wingårdh firm is known for its innovative work on numerous high-profile buildings, including the Swedish Embassy in Berlin, the Aula Medica at Karolinska Institute, and Victoria Tower in Stockholm. Their architectural precision and flair are evident in the eyewear collection, which reflects their signature focus on clean lines and balanced design.
The Inspiration Behind the Collaboration
According to Vasuma’s Creative Director, Jan Vana, Gert Wingårdh’s persona is closely tied to his distinctive eyewear, making it natural to base the collection on his unique style. Gert, who has become an icon for his glasses, worked alongside his son, Rasmus, and Vasuma to bring this collaboration to life. Their relationship began when Rasmus discovered that Jan was his neighbor, leading to this creative partnership.
For Wingårdh & Wingårdh, the desire to explore eyewear was a natural extension of their architectural work. As Rasmus explains, the high standards for quality and craftsmanship in Vasuma’s eyewear, coupled with their focus on sustainability, made the decision to collaborate easy.
VW1: Architectural Icon in Eyewear Form
The VW1 model pays direct homage to Gert Wingårdh’s eyewear style. Available in matte black and smokey ash, this frame highlights clean architectural lines contrasted by rounded shapes, exemplifying Wingårdh’s signature approach to blending form and function. The matte finish on the front contrasts with the polished arms, while the frame features premium components like 5-barrel hinges and eco-friendly Mazzucchelli acetate, ensuring both style and durability.
VW2: Sleek and Minimalist Design
The VW2 frame adopts a more modern and minimalist approach. With its refined silhouette, the frame draws on contemporary architectural influences while maintaining the elegance and sophistication that characterize Wingårdh’s designs. Available in both black and ash, the VW2’s frame balances sleek, angular lines with a smooth finish, creating a timeless look that complements any wardrobe.
VW3: Mid-Century Modern Meets Contemporary
VW3, inspired by mid-century modern design, channels retro style with contemporary detailing. The square shape and wider bridge lend a bold, iconic look, while the high-quality Mazzucchelli acetate and detailed finishes make it stand out. Available in black and ash, the VW3 offers a more dramatic look for individuals who appreciate eyewear that makes a statement.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The entire collection is handcrafted in Italy using Mazzucchelli’s M49 Eco Acetate, a sustainable material that reflects both Vasuma and Wingårdh & Wingårdh’s commitment to the environment. This eco-friendly acetate not only ensures a reduced environmental footprint but also provides the frames with a luxurious feel and long-lasting quality. Additionally, the frames are equipped with durable 5-barrel hinges, known for their strength and flexibility, ensuring each pair is built to last.
The attention to detail goes beyond just materials. Each frame in the collection includes a custom project logo engraved on the top. This logo is the X XI VW I II which symbolizes the hours between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM, which is the time when many creators experience their best creative “flow.” The frames also have Vasuma’s iconic Cobra symbol on each temple tip.
The architectural vision of Wingårdh & Wingårdh seamlessly translates into this eyewear collaboration, where every frame is a testament to craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail. Just as their buildings stand as symbols of innovation, the eyewear frames they’ve designed for Vasuma become collectible, wearable pieces of architectural art.
About Vasuma
Founded in Stockholm, Vasuma Eyewear is a contemporary independent brand that challenges traditional eyewear designs with bold, unique styles. The brand’s inspiration stems from a fusion of vintage aesthetics and modern fashion, often incorporating elements of creativity and rebellious spirit into each frame. Vasuma is committed to using high-quality materials like eco-friendly Mazzucchelli acetate and ensuring that every pair of glasses is crafted with precision. Known for their striking designs and attention to detail, Vasuma frames appeal to those who seek individuality and craftsmanship.
Discover independent eyewear with Project Spex. Every Friday, we deliver the latest in collectible eyewear and your favorite independent designers.
Sign up now and never miss a thing!
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.