May 13, 2008

Good as Goldsmith

Oliver Goldsmith Sunglasses

Some might assume British sunglass-makers are about as trustworthy as, say, Saharan synchronized swimmers.

But you know better. (Those who live in rainy climates never throw stones.)

So you’ll be all over classic shades by Oliver Goldsmith, a cult London-based company that was one of the world’s original sunglass pioneers.

Goldsmith’s great-granddaughter recently relaunched the 82-year-old line by reissuing retro styles worn by stars like Michael Caine, Grace Kelly, and John Lennon in the ’40s through ’70s. Try the Berwick, an elegant oversize pair originally seen on Princess Diana; the Carl, a Boogie Nights-esque pair of aviators; or our fave, the Tula, a groovy honey-colored style that dates back to 1971.

The hand-constructed frames are made from Italian acetate and are guaranteed to stand the test of time.

Unlike, say, Siberian beach volleyball players.

Available at Kuhlman, 2419 First Avenue (206-441-1999). To see styles, go to olivergoldsmith.com.