Independent Eyewear is why I love this industry. It’s an exciting time as we are seeing more and more independent eyewear design brands enter the market. Fortunately, many opticians and eyewear consumers are choosing independent eyewear. At SKONA, we have been long time fans of the independent eyewear movement. Our experience on the retail side is where we first discovered independent eyewear brands and we eventually decided to carry independent brands in our optical store exclusively. The beauty and creativity of these incredible designers is unmatched and we have nothing but respect for these independent eyewear brands who have laid the foreground before us. Our design philosophy is rooted in our experience on the retail side and the experience of our trusted customers. At SKONA we believe in the deep-rooted desire to make great eyewear and do better in the process.
Only the Best Materials
Unlike big fashion brands, independent designers take pride in using the best quality materials despite the greater cost. They are always on the lookout for better materials, better methods of productions. The end product is a source of pride. Unfortunately, fast fashion compromises quality for quick profit.
Mass Market means lower quality
Unfortunately, fashion brands dominate the market. Paying a high price for eyewear that is mass-produced and costs as little as $10 USD to produce is unacceptable. Poor quality acetate that is difficult to heat and shape, designs that completely disregard the optical prescription the end user might need and the unbearably heavy (and gaudy) metal embellishments that these fashion brands use are in an insult to the industry. Fashion brands often use heavier materials such as thick acetate or metals in their eyewear. Often metal logos are added to the temple for embellishment. These embellishments significantly add to the weight of fashion frames and the glasses end up not fitting properly. Why do we accept fashion choices that are uncomfortable and even leave us with a headache? These fashion brands claim to be luxury brands but what’s luxurious about being uncomfortable? Would you go to a nice hotel and expect the bed to be uncomfortable? I wouldn’t and neither should you. You deserve the luxury of comfort and that’s why we seek out to make the most comfortable eyewear. We believe luxury means wearing beautiful designs with the ultimate in comfort.
Designed to Last
Today’s independent designers know that real quality is not mass-produced. Luxury goods should be made to last. Eyewear collectors want to keep their eyewear for years to come and in the case of prescription eyewear for several prescription changes.