As my nearest and dearest will likely tell you, I have a slight obsession with prescription glasses. I love how putting on a pair can change the way you look instantaneously. Ever since I've started to collect them about two years ago, which was about the time I decided that I would wear them regularly and not just when it pleases me, I began to be more aware of other people's eyewear as well. I started to notice that the Parisians always (always!) seem to have the most stylish prescription glasses (and it matches their outfits too!).
Now, whenever we find ourselves in Paris, I try to scout for new pairs to add to my collection. Usually, I like to purchase one personal item for every Paris trip. It doesn't have to be the most expensive item, but just a keepsake to remind me of the city and that particular trip (an umbrella, a bag, costume jewellery, etc). This trip I was lucky enough to have found a pair of glasses!
I was especially happy with this pair because it's different from the others within my collection. I tend to favour a lot of tortoiseshells and cats-eye glasses ( I have only one in metal!). To be fair, this one has a slight tortoiseshell-like pattern at the top but I love the fact that it's red! I don't have one in this colour yet and I love the shape of it. I think I look intellectual, without looking nerdy; classy, without being old-fashioned (yes, if you can't guess already, I'm in love with my new glasses!).
As I said before, I always keep a lookout for interesting eyewear whenever I'm in Paris. We love to check out small trendy boutiques within le Marais, but also the big ones in more central locations like on Avenue de l'Opera, the row of boutiques near the Jardin du Palais Royal, or even the grand magasins.
One particular shop we always make a point to visit is
Retrovision on Rue Rambuteau. One, because the store itself is aesthetically pleasing and second, because they always have the most amazing collection that are both unique and trendy ( plus, I always feel so cool and hip just browsing at the shop ha!ha!ha! ) . The last time we visited, my husband managed to find the most perfect pair of
Lesca prescription glasses which fitted his every requirements ( he had this picture in mind of riding a bicycle in Paris wearing a suit and the trendy glasses - like husband, like wife eh?!)
The glasses I purchased on the last trip, however, was from a new boutique that we had just discovered. While going up and down Rue du Bac, trying to locate my mother's antique jewellery stall, we managed to find this little gem of a shop called
Les Opticiens du Bac. I love the shop! They specialise in round eyewear and even make their own! A collection they so wonderfully named La Brigitte. They also sell handmade leather cases like the one displayed below. The picture does not do it justice, though! The actual case is finely made from the most supple leather and comes in burgundy or dark brown. If ever you find yourself in Paris, do check out Les Opticians du Bac in the 7th arrondisement and Retrovision in le Marais.
If you're in KL, I would highly recommend
Reliance Optical in Bangsar. I think they have the widest selection of brands within one shop in KL and all reasonably priced. It's a family-owned business and they're all so helpful and nice! They don't force you into making a purchase and they genuinely help you in your decision. I think they're the main reason my collection have grown so drastically within just two years. Definitely check them out and don't forget to ask for Lim! ;)
For the moment, I think I should curb my expenditure on new prescription glasses. If I were to buy a new one (and that's a big if!), I think I'll go for a proper round frame and maybe one in light matte colours. In the meantime, I'll keep myself contented with these red ones that make me feel tres parisienne ooh la la! ;)
