It looked like spring had arrived last weekend here in North Yorkshire. However, the bright sun and azure sky belied the cool temperature. For me, spring truly arrives when the cherry trees blossom. But those avenues of pink are short-lived. A mere breeze or a light April shower sends the delicate petals flying, causing swirly pink rainfalls and pretty confetti carpets. Both of which have their own beauty. In complete contrast however, these blossom pink marble sunglasses have a longevity that transcends the seasons. They’re certainly not just for spring and summer. They’re perfect now in the late winter sunshine. And they’ll be perfect when the trees are ablaze with burnished leaves in autumn.

The iridescent frames and round silver flash lenses make for something a little different. They’re the Zola by Pala, a gorgeous brand I met at 100% Optical. Their motto is “Wear, Love, Give” and they provide grants to eye-care projects in Africa. Such projects include building a new vision centre, or dispensary, purchasing equipment and supporting an outreach programme. These are all sustainable, long term solutions that facilitate eye-care, eye-tests and the provision of spectacles.

My pink knitted cotton jacket was from Winser London almost three years ago. I like it because it’s smarter than a sweater yet just as comfortable. This whole off-duty outfit is easy-going and the pink marble sunglasses are an effortless style statement.

The frames are lightweight and beautifully made and this style is also available in tortoiseshell.

And speaking of tortoiseshell, aren’t these earrings lovely? At just £8, it’s an inexpensive way of adding a touch of pattern.

Pala’s ethos extends to their spectacle cases which are made from waste plastic which has been collected, re-purposed and woven into something rather unique.

Do go and look at the Pala website. There you can read more about their wonderful ethos and see the other fabulous eyewear designs, both ophthalmic and sun. Worldwide shipping is free and there is a 30-day no-hassle guarantee so there’s nothing to lose! The founder of the company is called John and he welcomes all enquiries from individual consumers, optometry practices, opticians and fashion boutiques.

And Finally…

This is the first in a series of posts I’m working on called “Make A Spectacle….” Each one will focus on a particular style, type, brand or shape of eyewear. I will continue with “The Perfect Pair” paragraph in my usual style posts too, (in which I suggest a pair of glasses or sunglasses to work with that particular outfit).