Jacques Marie Mage’s long-awaited second collaboration with Stanley Kubrick returns with The Torrance
Eyewear obsessives and film fanatics unite!
Following from the Heywood and their tribute to 2001: A Space Odyssey, Jacques Marie Mage have chosen the 1980 horror classic The Shining as their latest inspiration. Specifically, Mr Jack Torrance as played by Jack Nicholson.
The Torrance is a suitably imposing sunglass silhouette, inspired by Nicholson’s iconic “Kubrick Stare”
The frame features bold bevelling and the strongest of strong brow lines (much like Mr Nicholson himself)
All the classic JMM details are there:
10mm cellulose acetate
KUBRICK arrowhead front pins
Custom 9-barrel hinges
Spur-shaped rivets
Silver foil-stamped hallmarks
And this special edition piece also includes an oversized, double-sided commemorative cleaning cloth, chapbook including exclusive imagery, and original “The Shining” commentary.
As you’d expect, these pieces are incredibly rare. They’re available in two exquisite colourways:
Black (#92 of 350 worldwide) and Viper (#79 of 200 worldwide)
Trust us when we say these are going to fly out.
You’ll need to be quick if you want to take The Torrance home for ever and ever and ever (sorry)
On Friday 7th November we hosted “Experience Kuboraum”; a special in-store event showcasing the phenomenal eyewear designs of Kuboraum.
We were blown away by the response to the event, with so many familiar faces coming along to share a drink with us. We’re extremely lucky to have such a loyal following of clients who share our appreciation for creative eyewear!
If you pre-ordered a frame on the day, we are now working on making your lenses. We’re so excited to share the finished results!
These in-store events are a great opportunity for us to show exactly what it is that we love to do, and we can’t wait to start planning the next one.
Be sure to follow our socials and sign up to our mailing to be first in the know.
You can head to our instagram for a recap of the festivities
Gai Gheradi, co-founder and creative director of l.a. Eyeworks passed away on Sunday 16th March. She was 78.
Gheradi opened her optical boutique in 1979 along with her highschool friend Barbara McReynolds. Having both trained in optics and finding themselves bored in a stagnant, gender-defined industry, they set out to create a revolutionary name in eyewear. Their brand quickly captured the hearts of the punks, rockabillies and new-wavers of Melrose Avenue and beyond. Soon after they had gained a loyal following of creatives and celebrities like David Hockney, Grace Jones and Elton John.
Gheradi and McReynolds transformed the eyewear world forever. They shifted the perspective of eyewear and the optical store and presented it as an artform. They coined the slogan “the face is like a work of art: it deserves a great frame”
l.a. Eyeworks designs have featured in art galleries around the world, including London Design Museum. Their frames are credited in numerous iconic films like Thelma and Louise and The Matrix, and an apocolyptic version of their store itself can be spotted in Bladerunner.
Gai Gheradi was an avid supporter of the arts, often using l.a. Eyeworks’ store windows and even their lens cleaning clothes to showcase the work of rising artists. She used her platform to raise awareness about the issues she believed in. The window displays often featuring thought-provoking messages of culture, gender and politics. Most notable are “Safe Spex” in response to the AIDs crisis, “Uncensored Vision”, “Elect to Think”, and the Pride-inspired “Wear Them Out”
In an interview with Los Angeles Times she said “We use our windows to talk. The essence of this company is doing those things we believe in. How we life our life, how we conduct our business is our activism”
Gai devoted her time and resources to many great causes such as Planned Parenthood and AIDs-relief organisationss, and was serving as board president of Art Matters when she passed away.
In memory of Gai, we have chosen to raise funds for Curios Arts; North East-based charity championing the development of LGBTQIA+ arts and artists. We will donate 10% of all l.a. Eyeworks frames sold throughout April.
Garrett Leight was born in Los Angeles 1984, and was raised in a world of eyewear. After working for his father- the legendary Larry Leight – Garrett set out to make his own mark on the eyewear world.
In 2009 he opened his own optical boutique. Shortly after he began to create his own designs and GLCO was born. The brand is influenced by the classic looks and fashions of California infused with material and stylistic innovations, and a fresh, youthful aesthetic.
In 2010 he travelled across Europe to showcase his creations in person. Garrett had one mission: to open accounts with the best optical stores in the world.
We’re proud to have partnered with GLCO since the very start. Their commitment to effortless wearable style never falters. There’s a reason why Garrett’s frames are so popular.
This year, GLCO is celebrating its 15th anniversary with some special edition frames.
Firstly, he has made some updates to the Forever Classics series. The Forever Classics are those frames that everyone should have in their wardrobe. They’re like your perfect tshirt or sneakers. They look great with everything and you love to wear them. For this collection, Garrett has partnered with Japanese craftsman to add finesse with titanium details and nosepads. He’s also reimagined the best-selling Wilson with a thicker acetate rim for a punchier silhouette.
The 15th anniversary series also includes some new pieces, like this shallow tear-drop P.3:
William is available in both optical and sun, and can also be paired with a custom sun clip for added versatility.
“If you are reading this, then I want you to know something. For 15 years the two most important things to me that have never wavered are the products we mak eand your experience with them and us as a company. I’m grateful that you found us and ultimately glasses are just a thing, but I hope they enrich your life and give you the confidence to be the person you want to be. At the very least, I guarantee it will protect your eyes and compliment your style. This is my cheers to fifteen years of doing this, thanks to people like you.”
It’s just under two weeks until the big day and Newcastle is busier than ever with the mad dash of Christmas shoppers. If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for your loved one, then allow us to take the pressure off with our Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide!
Whether your loved one is a GSO regular or new to the world of eyewear, we have something for everyone.
Surprise them with something from their Christmas wishlist
Did you know that we keep records of our frame fanatics’ wish lists throughout the year? If you love someone who loves GSO, chances are we know what they want for Christmas! Come in for a chat with our eyewear experts and we’ll help you find the perfect gift.
Need a little bit more inspiration? Read on to find out our recommendations in our Holiday Gift Guide..
For The Fashionista
Ahlem sunglass frames
For a fashion-lover seeking the celebrity look, we have just the thing! How about a beautiful pair of Ahlem sunspecs? Adored by Natalie Portman to LeBron James.
GLCO frames
For a more laidback vibe, look no further than Garrett Leight. Worn by Brad Pitt, Kendall Jenner and pretty much anyone else you can think of!
For the Colour Lover
Into dopamine dressing?
Inject some colour into your eyewear collection with a bold and beautiful frame by Theo, Oscar Mamooi or Anne et Valentin
For The Environmentalist
Want to expand your eyewear collection without impacting the environment? Check out our sustainable options by Rolf. Beautiful frames made from castor beans and wood.
For the Outdoors-obsessed
Perfect for the great outdoors
For those who love nothing more than spending time in the great outdoors, some colour changing lenses are a must-have. Either ready-to-wear or fully-customisable, we have a huge range of colours to choose from. Our lenses are complete with a hydrophobic layer for those drizzly days too.
custom tints
For the Sports-fanatic
Whether it’s golf, skiing, swimming, or something more niche, we have eyewear to suit every sporting endeavour. Book an eyewear consultation with one of our experts and we’ll help find the solution for you!
Ask us about our sports eyewear options
Ask us about our sports eyewear options
For the Aspiring Eyewear Aficionado
Junior frame options
Know a youngster who’s looking to expand their eyewear collection? We have a great range of stylish junior optical and frames! For under 16s, all eyewear needs to be dispensed by a registered optician. Why not book your teen in for a frame consultation with one of our experts and treat them to the full GSO experience?
For Winter Sun Seekers
Our sunglass collection
There’s no better time to treat yourself or a loved one to a new pair of sunglasses. We have hundreds of incredible sunglass frames in our collection! Either ready-to-wear or with fully-customised prescription lenses.
*please allow up to 3 weeks depending on custom lens type
Gift Voucher
Christmas Voucher
Christmas Voucher
If your loved one prefers to choose their own, why not request a custom gift voucher? We can provide a voucher for any amount and with a personalised message
*2 days notice required
To make it extra special, our gift vouchers will include a personal Eyewear Consultation appointment with one of our eyewear experts. Allow us to give your loved one the VIP treatment!
Our eyewear accessories and care kits
Stocking Fillers
For the person who has everything, we have a great selection of care kits and accessory items, priced from £10 – £40
Our eyewear accessories and care kits
Large cloth
Slim case
Care kit
Collectors Case
click here To make an appointment for an eyewear consultation for yourself or a loved one
On Friday 21st June we officially kicked-off Sunglass Season with a very special in-store event! We transformed our store into a sunglass showroom and showcased the full SS24 Sun collections from brands like
GLCO
HUG
ANNE ET VALENTIN
AHLEM
and more…
It seems the sun got its invitation and decided to make a guest appearance too, so we really can say that summer has officially started!
We love hosting these special in-store events. They’re a great opportunity to show appreciation for our loyal clients, and introduce like-minded frame fans. Thanks to everyone who came along, shared a drink and took a look around. We had the best time!
We’re busy working through all pre-orders made on the day. If you’re waiting for your new sunglasses, sit tight! We’ll be in touch soon.
If you’d like to hear about our upcoming events, make sure you’re following our socials here
“Here is how I envision this new collection. Settle into your sitting room after you’ve put your day behind you. Pour yourself a glass of whiskey, neat, two fingers. Tap into your music listening device and select Chris Stapleton, play the track “Tennessee Whiskey”. Sit there and reflect. Once you’re good and deep on your feelings, and your relationship with this brand after a decade of GLCO and all the good memories, select the track “Death Row”, also by Chris Stapleton. Now stand up and strut around your living room. That’s the energy. Do with it what you may”
That’s what brand founder Garrett Leight has to say about the new collection from GLCO.
Want to know more? Read on…
Sherwood
The Sherwood is a compact, tailored square frame taking design notes from classic 50’s eyewear. This frame features a thicker acetate, a custom Braid filigree core wire, and our custom Skyline plaque.
Manzanita
A classic P3 with an uplifted endpiece for a soft, easy wear. Featuring a custom Braid filigree core wire, 5-barrel hinge and a keyhole nose bridge.
Wilshire
The Wilshire is a sophisticated, soft square frame composed of a thin and light weight Cured Cellulose Acetate. Featuring a custom Braid filigree core wire, 5-barrel hinge and a keyhole nose bridge. If you’re fan of our classic Kinney this is a nice addition to your eyewear collection.
Alder
A larger frame for a refined, scholarly look. The Alder features a custom Palm print filagree core wire, Zenith plaques on the temple, and dual-plated real rivet hinges with external pins.
Monarch
Modern meets classic. This elegant, square cat eye frame features a saddle nose bridge, custom Braid filigree core wire and dual-plated real rivet hinges with external pins.
To view this collection for yourself, arrange your frame consultation here
It’s just under three weeks until the big day and Newcastle is busier than ever with the mad dash of Christmas shoppers. If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for your loved one, then allow us to take the pressure off with our Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide
Whether your loved one is a GSO regular or new to the world of eyewear, we have something for everyone.
Surprise them with something from their Christmas wishlist
Did you know that we keep records of our frame fanatics’ wish lists throughout the year? If you love someone who loves GSO, chances are we know what they want for Christmas! Come in for a chat with our eyewear experts and we’ll help you find the perfect gift.
Need a little bit more inspiration? Read on to find out our recommendations in our Holiday Gift Guide
For The Fashionista
Ahlem sunglass frames
For a fashion-lover seeking the celebrity look, we have just the thing! How about a beautiful pair of Ahlem sunspecs? Adored by Natalie Portman to LeBron James.
GLCO frames
For a more laidback vibe, look no further than Garrett Leight. Worn by Brad Pitt, Kendall Jenner and pretty much anyone else you can think of!
For The Art Lover
Theo POP ART
If art’s your thing, why not adorn yourself with a beautiful piece of wearable art?
Theo’s Pop Art series is inspired by the artists of the pop art era and their iconic subjects: Think Debby Harry as portraited by Andy Warhol. With the bold contours, colours and geometry of Roy Lichtenstein.
For the Outdoors-obsessed
Perfect for the great outdoors
For those who love nothing more than spending time in the great outdoors, some colour changing lenses are a must-have. Either ready-to-wear or fully-customisable, we have a huge range of colours to choose from. Our lenses are complete with a hydrophobic layer for those drizzly days too.
custom tints
For the Sports-fanatic
Whether it’s golf, skiing, swimming, or something more niche, we have eyewear to suit every sporting endeavour. Book a frame consulation with one of our experts and we’ll help find the solution for you!
Ask us about our sports eyewear options
For the Aspiring Eyewear Aficionado
Junior frame options
Know a youngster who’s looking to expand their eyewear collection? We have a great range of stylish junior optical and frames! For under 16s, all eyewear needs to be dispensed by a registered optician. Why not book your teen in for a frame consultation with one of our experts and treat them to the full GSO experience?
For Winter Sun Seekers
Our sunglass collection
There’s no better time to treat yourself or a loved one to a new pair of sunglasses. We have hundreds of incredible sunglass frames in our collection! Either ready-to-wear or with fully-customised prescription lenses.
*please allow up to 3 weeks depending on custom lens type
Gift Voucher
Christmas Voucher
If your loved one prefers to choose their own, why not request a custom gift voucher? We can provide a voucher for any amount and with a personalised message
*2 days notice required
To make it extra special, our gift vouchers will include a personal Frame Consultation appointment with one of our eyewear experts. Allow us to give your loved one the VIP treatment!
Stocking Fillers
For the person who has everything, we have a great selection of care kits and accessory items, priced from £10 – £40
Our eyewear accessories and care kits
Large cloth
Slim case
Care kit
Collectors Case
To make an appointment for a frame consultation for yourself or a loved one, get in touch
Join us 2nd and 3rd November for a very special event: Ahlem Atelier
All about Ahlem
AHLEM is a luxury eyewear brand Renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, timeless designs, and commitment to sustainable production.
Founder Ahlem Manai Platt has a remarkable background in the fashion industry.
Ahlem Manai Platt
After studying art history, she gained experience at prestigious fashion houses such as Acne Studios and Prada. She founded her eponymous brand after a series of chance encounters…
“We were with friends at a cafe in Paris, discussing goals, and I showed the group a sketch from my notebook,” she says. “The excitement they expressed gave me the guts; the loss of a beloved pair of vintage sunnies shortly thereafter gave me the final push.”
Ahlem went on to become a finalist in Vogue’s CFDA Fashion Fund and she founded AHLEM in 2014.
We added Ahlem to the Grey St. collection in 2017 as a capsule range of their metal styles. We quickly fell in love with their stunning acetate designs too, as well as the ethos of the brand. The rest is history.
Team GSO with Ahlem
Since then AHLEM has catapulted into worldwide success. Not only is AHLEM a favourite of Grey St. followers, but they are also admired by famous faces and fashion icons:
Tom Holland in Ahlem
Seth Rogan in Ahlem
And our personal favourite: Will Young in AHLEM, styled by Grey St. Optician
AHLEM have recently collaborated with VOGUE to create a custom sunglass frame. They have also been featured in GQ, Elle, Financial Times, Mens Health, Monocole and many many more
The Process
AHLEM may be famous for their exquisite designs, but this attention to detail is also extended to their craftsmanship. AHLEM source materials from the most reputable and sustainable suppliers available to market. From plant-based acetate and naturally non-toxic titanium to recyclable, eco-friendly lenses, they firmly believe that honest, Earth-friendly ingredients make the best and longest-lasting products.
Each piece is handmade in France in small batches to achieve an unparalleled standard of quality. Their acetate temples are raw cut by hand, with a matte finish. They celebrate the imperfections that come from raw cuts of one-of-a-kind slabs and unique colourways.
“We are committed to delivering exceptional eyewear created with pure concepts, honest materials and heritage techniques. Our award-winning frames are handcrafted in France and Japan with uncompromising attention to detail and quality.”
The Paris Line
“The Paris Line” FW23 sees Ahlem return to her roots. It is the first collection entirely conceived and produced in France following the designer’s transatlantic move back to Paris. The lines running throughout the collection symbolise continuity and the certainty of being established in one place.
AHLEM’s organic shapes surpass trend. She believes that objects of timeless design and superior quality are always relevant. There truly is something for every face within this superb collection.
Ahlem FW23
GSO becomes AHLEM ATELIER
On 2nd and 3rd of November, we are honoured to host AHLEM ATELIER: A showcase of Ahlem’s FW2023 collection. For just two days we will be in possession of the ENTIRE collection from AHLEM. Every exquisite optical and sunglass, in every stunning colourway will be right here on Grey St. for guests to explore.
This will be our first Ahlem event on Grey Street so we are very excited! The champagne will be flowing and we’ll have some delicious treats lined up from local French bakery Le Mini Macaron!
Our in-store events are a great opportunity to discover ideas for your next frame. If you see something you love there will be special discounts available on the day.
This event is strictly by appointment only, so please click the link for more information, or to RSVP.
Sunglass Season is HERE
