Warby Parker just announced its collaboration with the New York-based label Theophilio, presenting the exclusive Shaunie sunglasses. Taking inspiration from designer Edvin Thompson's Jamaican roots, Shaunie effortlessly merges nostalgic elements with futuristic design concepts. The collection showcases five captivating colorways, including Shade, Lemon Slice and Sorrel, available for purchase on warbyparker.com and select stores. An exclusive Soursop colorway can be found on blackfashionfair.org. What sets these sunglasses apart is Warby Parker's innovative construction process, involving the lamination of opaque acetate over translucent material to create a stunning outline effect around each lens.
Edvin Thompson shares his perspective on the collaboration: "These sunglasses are like a memoir for me. I see my adolescence and my parents in them, but I also see the shape of things still to come. This collaboration is all about where I’m coming from as a designer and where I’m going next." The partnership between Warby Parker and Theophilio traces back to 2022 when they collaborated for the debut issue of Black Fashion Fair, Volume 0. This publication marked a significant milestone in representing emerging and established design and artistic talent globally. Black Fashion Fair, spearheaded by Theophilio's brand director Antoine Gregory, is a platform dedicated to discovering and promoting Black designers and Black-owned brands. The exclusive Soursop colorway available on blackfashionfair.org underscores the platform's commitment to showcasing unique creations.
"Edvin is a rare talent, and I’m glad we found a kindred spirit in Warby Parker to express his vision in a new way." said Antoine Gregory as he expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. Neil Blumenthal, co-founder, and co-CEO of Warby Parker, adds, "It’s been an honor to help Theophilio make their foray into eyewear. The frames we made together are the perfect synthesis of our expertise in the field and Edvin’s deeply personal aesthetic." Priced starting at $145, Shaunie sunglasses offer wearers a piece of wearable nostalgia and contribute to Warby Parker's social responsibility mission by providing a pair of glasses to someone in need with every purchase. This collaboration celebrates Edvin Thompson's design vision and Theophilio's unique aesthetic, embodying eyewear craftsmanship, memories, and innovation.
