Journey Beyond the Ordinary- New Era Of Eyewear Making

I am now working on the final tuning of every single detail for our new challenging project, Tanaka Eyewear! They look great, and I wear them every day, liking them more each time I see them.

Today, I am writing about what I’ve researched to understand the world I am just about to step into.

The World of Unique Eyewear: Materials and Designs That Stand Out

As I dive into creating Tanaka Eyewear, I’ve been exploring the incredible world of unique materials and designs. Eyewear is no longer just about helping us see—it’s about creativity, craftsmanship, and turning a simple pair of glasses into a true work of art.

Unconventional Materials

Changing the GameModern eyewear goes beyond just metal and plastic. I’ve discovered materials that not only look amazing but also offer something new advantage. Each material may not be the perfect answer yet, but it’s interesting to see how other brands are approaching sustainability.

Wood and Bamboo: Wooden eyewear, especially bamboo, feels warm and natural. Bamboo grows quickly, making it a sustainable choice. Brands like Shwood and Proof Eyewear have mastered these frames, offering a fresh, organic look. However, they are sensitive to moisture, so they may not be the most durable option in the long run.

Recycled Materials: Sustainability is crucial in today’s designs. Imagine frames made from ocean plastics or recycled metals—these materials help the environment and tell a story of renewal. Parafina, for example, turns waste into stylish, eco-friendly eyewear. Personally, I believe recycled plastic is best suited for 3D-printed eyewear, where it can really make a difference.

Titanium and Carbon Fibre: If you value strength, titanium is a game-changer. It’s lightweight and durable. Carbon fibre, on the other hand, offers a sleek, high-tech look with incredible resilience. Brands like Lindberg and Tag Heuer are leading in this area.

Bio-Acetate: Bio-acetate is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional acetate, made from renewable sources like cotton and wood pulp. It’s colourful, flexible, and has a smaller environmental impact. Brands like Etnia Barcelona are embracing this material in their designs. I think this has significant potential—let’s see how it evolves to further reduce environmental impact.

The Evolution of Eyewear Design: Unleashing Creativity

Materials are important, but design is where eyewear really shines. The industry has moved beyond simple shapes, embracing bold, creative designs.

Geometric Shapes: Geometric designs, from hexagons to asymmetrical shapes, make eyewear stand out. They’re for those who want to make a bold fashion statement. Kuboraum is known for its unique "masks" that challenge traditional eyewear.

Layered and Mixed Materials: Combining different materials in one frame is another trend that caught my eye. Mixing wood, metal, and acetate creates visually and texturally rich frames. Theo Eyewear is a leader in this approach with its playful designs.

Handcrafted Artistic Details: Handcrafted details turn eyewear into art. These frames can feature intricate engravings or hand-painted patterns. Matsuda is an inspiration here, with bespoke frames adorned with dedicated details.

3D Printing: 3D printing is the future of fashion eyewear, allowing for impressive designs that fit fashionistas. Mykita uses 3D printing to create innovative, lightweight frames that are truly unique and reasonable.

Sustainable Design: Sustainable design is central to our Tanaka Eyewear. It’s not just about materials; it’s about making eyewear that minimises waste and lasts a long time. Unconventional Materials: Changing the Game!

Photo by Gow Tanaka

Exploring these materials and designs has been inspiring, and my choice is compressed recycled paper for Tanaka Eyewear. Whether through unique materials or bold designs, my goal is to create eyewear that’s not only functional but also tells a story.

I can’t wait to share more as this project develops.

Final Touches: Tanaka Eyewear Collection by 3RD/DIADEM

As we near the completion of our first collection, I’m reflecting on the journey that brought us here. The idea behind Tanaka Eyewear was simple: to create something that stands out in design and sustainability, rooted in craftsmanship. After years of hard work, I’ve crafted eyewear that I’m truly proud of.

Bold Yet Minimal Design

Our design balances boldness and simplicity. The frames make a statement without overwhelming. Clean lines and modern silhouettes ensure they catch the eye while remaining versatile and timeless.

Unique Textured Surface

A standout feature of this collection is the Japanese dry garden theam textured surface. we’ve created a texture that’s unlike anything in conventional eyewear. It adds depth and character, making the frames tactile and intriguing.

Handcrafted Durability

Durability was key in our design process. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted at our London workshop, ensuring they’re not only beautiful but also built to last. The compressed recycled paper, while unconventional, results in frames that are surprisingly strong and resilient.

As we finish this collection, I feel a great sense of accomplishment. Tanaka Eyewear collection is a testament to distinctive design and sustainable craftsmanship. I’m thrilled to share it with you, and I hope you’ll love these pieces as much as I loved creating them.

Stay tuned for the official launch—we’re almost ready to unveil something truly special!

SIGN UP for our mailing list to ensure you get updates for the Pre-Launch Release at a special price before the main launch.

Gow Tanaka Designer /Founder

Gallery photo by Jonny Storey