Last week, I got to go behind the scenes on the set of the FYSH UK Eyewear photoshoot with Canadian fashion Industry icon, Jeanne Beker. Jeanne collaborated with FYSH UK (a division of WestGroupe) to create a signature eyewear collecton that will soon be available at optical retailers nationally across Canada.  

I recently bought my first pair of reading glasses (it turns out I have a condition where my eyes struggle to adjust from close up to distance, so the glasses help "rest" my eyes!).  So, I was eager to see what goes into creating a style-worthy line of eyewear. 

I went in to the photoshoot and spotted the camera bulbs flashing and all the fashion-y folks getting the look just right. 

I then actually had a chance to sit down and chat with the (extremely lovely) creative director of Westgroupe, Beverly Suliteanu, who filled me in on the details from this awesome collaboration.   

The collection will be launched in January 2013, and features 6 unique models each with 4 colour variations as well as Jeanne’s signature frame that will come in a bold black and white print.  The coolest part? A portion of sales from this signature line will be donated to Dress for Success, a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to empowering women and inspiring them to put their best foot forward through fashion. 

Jeanne's fashion icon status and universal appeal made her the perfect person to edit down the collection and to pick out the key pieces and styles. Jeanne embodies the notion of "be who you are," and "letting your individuality shine through," which is exactly what FYSH is all about. 

Beverly then filled me in on how eyewear in the last 15 years has become truly fashionable and she had some great tips: 

1. There is no universal frame: pick one that flatters your face. 

2. Make sure your eyewear shopping partner has the same aesthetic taste as you!

3. An up-sweeped frame is a good way to add some freshness to your face (and easier than a facelift!). 

4. Warmer tone colours (berries, browns, purples) are the most flattering. 

After chatting with Beverly, I headed upstairs to watch the magic happen...of course, I did sneak a peek at all the outfits that would go with these stylish specs. 

Everyone was snapping away and making sure that this must-have accessory was being showcased. 

Jeanne was looking fabulous in her signature frames and working some seriously gorgeous boots. 

Between shots, I got to speak with Jeanne about the line and eyewear in general.  According to her, glasses are a fabulous accessory and you can never have too many, like shoes! 

In the past it was all-contacts all-the-time, but things are changing and Jeanne said it best:

Sexy secretary/geek-chic is the perfect punctation to a fashion statement.  

xxx

LKIS