New Releases

lashyShades.com would like to wish a warm welcome to two newly launched sunglasses lines!

This week, two delightful brands from opposite ends of the fashion spectrum announced their plans to enter the sunglasses market: the highly accessible Banana Republic and the more exclusive Thakoon.

For their eyewear collection, Banana Republic entered into a five year deal with a proven winner, the Safilo Group, the powerhouse responsible for the following splendor:



A wise choice! Marka Hansen, the president of Banana Republic addressed the new shades line in a statement, saying:

"We continue to grow Banana Republic as a lifestyle brand and eyewear is a natural extension of our plans."

[Source: Gap Inc.]

Banana Republic eyewear will be available in Solstice, independent stores, and Banana Republic locations by late 2007. Giddy up!

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The second newbie is Thakoon, the acclaimed line designed by Panichgul Thakoon (a former editor at Harper's Bazaar).

"Thakoon has set its sights on the eyewear business. The ready-to-wear label designed by Thakoon Panichgul in New York has unveiled a collection of sunglasses. The collection represents the first step into the accessories category for the two-and-a-half-year-old brand and CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund runner-up, following its collaboration with Nine West this fall on footwear, handbags and gloves."

[Source: WWD]

Thakoon's new venture is not super surprising, as his Spring/Summer '07 runway show featured several models in sunglasses (as shown above). View the entirety of that show HERE. [Source: NYMag]

I, for one, am waiting with bated breath!