As we near the end of 2018, I’m looking at what we’ll see in the world of fashion and spectacle frames in 2019. And not just because it’s my  passion and interest, but because it’s part of my job. The monthly column I write for Optometry Today is called “Get The Look.” Every month I look at what’s hot in the world of optics, from a style perspective. We work several months ahead and I’ve just finished the February issue.

As well as that, I’m giving a style talk at 100% Optical in January. It’s about upcoming trends in consumer behaviour and fashion, with a focus on eyewear. I’ve been doing a lot of research and this blog post outlines what we can expect to see and wear next year.  I went last year and had a brilliant few days during which I did a little filming and a lot of networking and socialising. It’s the UK’s largest optical event and it will take place at London’s ExCel on 12-14th January 2019. I recommend it to everyone in the world of optics. It’s brilliant and completely free of charge. And for those that need CET points, there are plenty available from a wide range of lectures, talks and workshops.

General Colour Trends 2019

Pantone’s spring colour trends were very prominent at London and New York Fashion Weeks. According to Pantone, these colour palettes were used to induce playful professionalism and to encourage an unrestrained and experimental approach to colour. The Pantone colour of the year for 2019 is Living Coral, so we shall see this in abundance.

Spectacle Trends 2019: Shape

Over-sized

Expect to see over-sized spectacle frames. They fit with the “more is more” ethos of the season and will inject an outfit with an air of dynamism and mystery. This look exudes energy and confidence and it compliments the continuing trend for statement earrings. Understated is over-rated.

Bling

There will be no shortage of “blingy” frames for those inclined to shine through 2019. Precious stones and gems make for bejewelled eyewear which infuses both day and night time looks with head-turning glamour.

Goggles, Sunshields, call them what you will.

Athleisure continues to make its sartorial stay, so the shield is a must-have. An oversized wrap with a flatter topline is the shape of choice. This look is full-on and fearless. Accessorise with a large dose of self-confidence and a pinch of irony.

Ultra-Round

The ultra-round shape will be huge in both ophthalmic and sunglass styles in 2019. Mr Potter has a lot to answer for. The antique shop aesthetic is in keeping with fashion’s current, (and welcome), obsession with the sustainable. LiÒ have a brilliant range which I’m looking forward to seeing at 100% Optical.

Super-Slim Pointed Cats Eye

In contrast with the super-sized styles above, there will be a shift towards narrower profiles as the increase of cat-eye shapes gathers wider commercial pace. The exaggerated winged shapes are accentuated by slimmer silhouettes. These styles are for distinctive, assertive women who know what they want. This is where subtle sexiness meets playful teasing.

Novelty, anything goes.

The serious face of fashion should perhaps be called into question after an upsurge in novelty frames. These joyful, kitsch styles cannot fail to amuse.

Spectacle Trends 2019: Colour

Pantone Colours

The warm spicy colours, including Living Coral that featured in the Pantone Spring Color Report, will reign supreme throughout 2019.

Yellow

The New York fashion Week runways featured models dressed top to toe in fruity citrus shades, with yellow in abundance. It will come as no surprise now we know that spice colours will be hot for 2019 to know that this will translate into spectacle trends too. Yellow is surprisingly wearable and there’s a shade to suit everyone. It looks stunning with cobalt which sits opposite it on the colour wheel.

Pink

Another other standout colour for 2019 is pink. Pink has always had a whimsical, optimistic and energetic appeal which makes it appealing throughout the year. It can add a carefree vibe to an outfit and can add a bit of joie de vivre to greys and neutrals.

Forest Green

Depending on the shade, green can be quite an introspective colour and forest green in particular, I find very calming. It is an alternative to classic neutrals like brown and black. It is undemanding and harmonious and suits every skintone. And forest need not be sludgy, it can be earthy, refreshing and bohemian.

Spectacle Trends 2019: Materials

I think THE standout trend in frame materials is for those that are sustainable. Consumers are becoming ever more conscious across the board, whether that is fashion, food or cars.

I have mentioned Danish brand MonkeyGlasses before on my blog. Their “look good, whilst doing good” ethos is one I subscribe to wholeheartedly. They are set to launch some new designs for 2019 at 100% Optical with environmentally-friendly frame materials made from materials such as biodegradable cotton acetate and recycled stainless steel.

Another sustainable-eyewear company that will be exhibiting at 100% Optical is Bird. They use natural materials such as beech and bamboo, with aluminium and cotton-based acetate to create high-quality frames. They have partnered with SolarAid and every pair sold brings clean light to remote communities in Africa.

Feb31st, an Italian brand has been making frames from sustainable wood, long before it was fashionable to do so. They have a very uplifting ethos and support 4ocean.com. This brand counts former footballer Ian Wright and Emma Bunton as fans. I’m very much looking forward to meeting this brand at 100% Optical.

British Heritage Brands

100% will showcase some British heritage brands too. De Rigo is set to launch its Mulberry SS19 collection and I for one cannot wait to see it.

And Eyespace will unveil their collection of men’s sunglasses under the Range Rover license.

Eyewear Week

100% Optical is launching a brand new Eyewear Week campaign running from 7 – 13 January to help save the high street and raise the profile of the most important fashion accessory there is. As a profession, we want to generate public awareness around the hottest eyewear trends and designs, and to uncover and influence eyewear shopping habits. Eyewear Week will drive footfall into opticians, because worryingly, one in ten British eyewear shoppers now purchase sunglasses and spectacles online, according to market research. Buying a new pair of frames is a pleasurable experience, and nothing can beat the personal customer service of an optician to assist in that process.

Keep an eye, (pun intended) on my social media during Eyecare Week, because I shall be doing my best to promote this excellent campaign.

Come And See Me…

Whether you’re in the world of optics, fashion or accessories, 100% Optical is for you. Partners, spouses, friends and family members are all welcome too. There will be several fashion shows per day and hundreds of frame exhibitors for those interested in style. There’s a future practice hub, CET and seminars, sports eyewear and optical equipment. It’s a brilliant social occasion too. Exhibitors and visitors are invited to the show party in the Central Bar from 6pm on Saturday 12th January 2019. Last year over 400 people relaxed, networked and danced. And with complimentary drinks and a soundtrack provided by a band and DJ, it doesn’t take long to get the party started.

I would love to see you there. My talks will take place in the Optical Academy on Saturday 12th January at 12.45pm and Sunday 13th January at 3pm. Everyone is welcome, from fashion-loving professionals to optical assistants, dispensers, frame buyers and anyone else in wider practice. And do come and say hi at any point too. it’d be lovely to meet you. I’ll be at the AOP awards again on the Sunday night and I’m an official media partner for 100% Optical so I’ll be snapping away. And follow me on Instagram because I’ll be posting about 100% Optical before, during and after the event.

Register for your free ticket here.