Eco Fashion World

BUTCHER EYEWEAR

Protecting eye health, and looking fabulous doing so, becomes more important in the sunny days of summer.  While sunglasses may not be the biggest part of your carbon footprint, various eco shades offer impressive ethical credentials, luxury craftsmanship, and trendsetting style that make each pair unique.

KAYU Sunglasses showcase trademark yellow bamboo oversized frames, amber lenses, and a commitment to improving eyesight around the world.  The hipster shades are made from sustainable bamboo (KAYU means wood), handcrafted by artisans, and the glasses support eye-restoring surgeries around the world.  Each pair purchased means a remarkable $50 goes to United for Sight a non-profit that supports general eye health, and each donation is enough to sponsor one surgery and the post-operative recovery process. 

ICU

Sunglass designer and surfer Robert Machado dipped his toes into the eco-production process for his Dragon Alliance brand with his Experience E.C.O model, a very large, curved frame reminiscent of the 80s SoCal craze.  Styled in retro matte black, the specs offer complete UV protection, a large field of vision, and minimal glare for those who like to chill outdoors. 

At the February edition of London Fashion Week’s Esthetica, we were particularly smitten with the edgy design and innovative concept of Butcher Couture Eyewear, with their luxurious looking leather covered frames in warm colors and buttery textures. 

IWOOD

Straight from editorial spreads in Vogue and other magazines from across the globe, ultra-luxe iWood glasses by designer Stephen McMenamin feature the subtle opulence of wood, upcycled from the interiors of private jets, yachts, and custom cars.  The handcrafted specs showcase Carl Zeiss lenses. Available in a variety of styles, including the boxy aviator at The Green Loop and with the option for prescription or polarized lenses from iWood. 

For a less pricy option, ICU Eyewear offers shades made from reclaimed plastic.  The bargain-priced lenses were featured on Oprah’s Green List and come in a variety of shapes and colors.

After picking up a new pair, don’t throw out old sunglasses—donate out-of-date shades to services that provide eyewear in developing countries.  Sunglasses are especially needed, and donations can be sent to Unite for Sight or other organizations that provide sunglasses for post-surgery recovery or to improve the overall quality of life.

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