Frame materials

In the beginning, there were binoculars, monocles and pince-nez. Then, Sieur Thomin, a Parisian spectacle-maker, made temple glasses, followed by ear glasses. All were made from metal and wire by blacksmiths and silversmiths.

In the early 20th century, the frames we know today appeared. Today, technology has made it possible to create wonders. Frames are sturdy, light, colorful, resistant and comfortable. Today, you have a choice of materials for your future eyewear frames.

Titanium and metal

If you like metallic materials, discover titanium. It's a very popular material, thanks to its lightness and robustness. What's more, titanium is hypoallergenic. It's the first choice of sportsmen and women, as these frames are flexible and resistant to falls. Titanium frames are available in a wide range of colors and shapes to satisfy the widest possible range of needs. This type of frame is perfect for those who need to wear thick lenses.

By combining titanium with nickel, the Flexon alloy will return to its original shape, even if you accidentally deform it.

Metal is very strong, shock-resistant, light and discreet - far more so than plastic. All metal frames, especially those with new alloys, will match fine, refined faces. Stainless steel is perfect, as it is allergy-free, lightweight and strong. It can be an alternative to titanium.

For the more precious, they'll love laminated gold lining, an alliance that combines the aesthetics of gold with the benefits of copper, palladium or silver. Your eyewear will take on subtle, magnificent silver, pink or yellow reflections, and will gain in solidity.

Acetate

Acetate is not an injected plastic, used for the manufacture of low-end, low-strength eyewear. The creation of a frame in cellulose acetate is the result of a skilful blend of advanced technique and expertise. Most of the finishing is done by hand.

With cellulose acetate, designers have fun creating perfect, soft-textured works of art, veritable head jewels. Everything is possible with acetate: relief and the smallest details are brought to the fore, and there are no limits to shapes and shades, apart from a lack of imagination. Young people will assert their personality with fancy frames made from flashy, shiny acetate.</p<

Other new-generation "plastics" have seen the light of day. Grilamid, a very light thermoplastic - the lightest on the market - is unbreakable. It withstands extreme conditions without ever deforming. It's the ideal material for sportsmen and women, and for all those who work in specific areas.

Carbon fiber

This is a skilful blend of carbon and other ingredients, as carbon fiber alone is very brittle. Carbon fiber is as strong as steel and lighter than aluminum, and will not warp even at high temperatures. Carbon fiber frames are extremely thin and slender, so they don't bend or misalign like metal. The major drawback with carbon fiber is the lack of originality in colors, which are very limited.

To keep up with the latest trends, opt for vintage frames, often in acetate. Play with colors and sophisticated material mixes to suit your wardrobe and activities.