By Deirdre Carroll: Senior Editor

 
CHAIN GANG POSTER
WHO: Houdini, classic Chanel bags, wallet chains, rappers (2 Chainz!), jewelers like Cartier, David Yurman and Tiffany & Co.’s iconic “Return to Tiffany” collection. The Diane von Furstenberg Fall 2012 Ready-to-Wear collection included an oversized chain link print and chunky fabric links stacked like a necklace, while the theme was repeated again in her Spring 2013 RTW presentation through the use of large chain link ankle straps on many of the shoes. Fresh off the runway for Fall 2013, Proenza Schouler featured several pieces that looked like metallic-painted yarn but were actually rows of delicate chains. In fact, an upcoming Costume Institute exhibition beginning in May at the Metropolitan Museum of Art will be dedicated to punk’s impact on high fashion and will have an entire gallery focusing on couture’s use of studs, spikes, chains and padlocks, among other things.

WHAT: Chains can be utilitarian or decorative, masculine or feminine, heavy and foreboding or fine and delicately wrought. An item that versatile just begs to be used in all manner of adornment. Eyewear designers have recently joined the chain gang and are designing some beautiful eyewear that is literally off the chain.

WEAR: (L to R) The Jimmy Choo Wiley/S sunglasses from Safilo feature cast metal temple details that evoke the feeling of those ID bracelets we all loved so much in our youth. The Judith Lieber 1658 optical style from Legacie carves the chain motif directly into the acetate temple and highlights the curves with rows of sparkling crystals. Tura has re-launched the Tura Brand full of distinctive jewelry-inspired pieces, here the Mod. 034 sunglass adds a tough edge to its all black design with gunmetal-hued cast metal links. In one of the most delicate interpretations of the trend, the LineArt Charmant XL2032 Rondo optical style renders its chain link motif in the company’s patented Excellence Titanium material for über lightweightness. The brand new Anne Klein eyewear collection from Altair takes a number of design cues from the brand’s fashion collection, for the AK5009 ophthalmic style the cast metal ring detailing on the temples is directly inspired by an Anne Klein bracelet.

WHY: Classic, yet entirely modern depending on the specific interpretation, chain details will rarely ever look dated, which means customers can be confident that the frame they are purchasing now will still look good down the road. Not to mention, that eyewear is more and more being embraced as a fashion accessory and just like the wearer’s favorite necklace or bracelet has become the perfect finishing touch.

dcarroll@jobson.com