For new Julu Lu boutique Coterie, eyewear is ‘more than just a piece of acetate with a big brand logo or a functional tool.’ Boasting a minimalist, white-washed space littered with antique optical instruments and a look-book shot by top fashion photographer
Chen Man (main image), the store stocks the kind of statement specs that make myopia hip and sunglasses so edgy you’ll be wearing them indoors.
The roster of high-end German, Japanese and US labels (all China exclusives) includes heritage labels such as the brilliantly named Tart Optical (from 2,950RMB), first founded in New York in the 1940s and revived in Japan last year, and more contemporary offerings such as the Olsen twins’ ‘Elizabeth and James’ range (1,750-3,850RMB) or Dior Homme designer Thom Browne’s eponymous line (3,960-5,960RMB).
Styles run the gamut from donnish horn-rimmed numbers to classic wire-rimmed aviators and 1950s-style cats’-eyes (DITA, 2,950-3,950RMB), but we particularly love the kooky, off-kilter, oversized frames of celebrity favourite Karen Walker, whose fan base includes Rihanna, Katy Perry and style blogger
Susie Bubble – recently snapped at New York Fashion Week wearing the cartoonish ‘Va Va’ (2,950RMB, pictured right).
Don’t miss the small selection of pre-loved vintage originals by the likes of Dior, Versace and Persol.
Selena Schleh
