Designers Eyewear (05.08.2011) ::

Words like Cherry wood, East Indian Rosewood and Zebrawood are not often associated with eyewear… Or any wear for that matter (unless you have a penchant for wooden clogs). More commonly they are attributed to the “big boss” desk you’ll get with that promotion down the line, but who knows when that’ll be anyway? In the meantime promote your sunglasses and check out Shwood eyewear.

The Portland based brand makes all frames in-house, with the finest wood nature has to offer. Embracing the old Americana artisanal movement, the complete process is overseen by the craftsman eye. Every step, from veneering and precision lens cutting, to shaping and finishing is conducted on premises in their workshop. Wood manipulation is left to a more adept artist, mother nature. Letting the wood age and adapt as it’s being worked, leaves the sunglasses with a finer more pronounced finish.

Lenses are the only piece shipped out for, but they’re not pinching any dimes doing so. Imported from Italy these Carl Zeiss lenses are 100% UVA/UVB protected and come in grey, mirror gold, polarized grey and polarized brown. For the best fit and wear, stay away from the mirror gold lenses, the color isn’t very appealing and it clashes with the lighter woods.

Shwood has smartly diversified their frames to all the major eyewear aesthetes out there. Clockwise from top left: The Oswald (vintage Persol), Neskowin (Oliver Peoples), Canby (Ray-Ban Wayfarer). While the major brands mark their glasses well above $300, Shwood keeps it affordable at $125 or there round. If you’re looking to go a bit more high end, they have limited edition collabs with HUF, BEAMS and Compound, all of which you can buy at their online store.

With 2012 around the corner, start taking notes now. Best to take advantage of what’s around us.