Linda Farrow
ActiveOverview
Linda Farrow is a British luxury eyewear brand specializing in sunglasses and optical frames, known for treating eyewear as fashion since its founding in 1970. Revived in 2003 by Simon Jablon, it focuses on visionary designs, designer collaborations, and premium craftsmanship, with over 30 standalone stores and 500 global wholesalers.123
History
Linda Farrow founded the brand in London in 1970 as a fashion designer pioneering sunglasses as fashion items with cutting-edge collections.123 After a twenty-year hiatus, her son Simon Jablon revived it in 2003 at age 24 by rediscovering her original designs and launching Linda Farrow Vintage, which gained traction at stores like Browns and Harvey Nichols.12 Full revival followed with new designs continuing the boundary-pushing ethos, leading to global expansion, collaborations with designers like Balenciaga and Emilio Pucci, and celebrity endorsements in the 2010s.123
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Mainline Collections | Luxury visionary eyewear | $400 - $1,200 |
| Designer Collaborations | Co-branded fashion-forward frames | $500 - $1,500 |
| Linda Farrow Vintage | Revived 1970s archive designs | $600 - $1,800 |
| Women's Sunglasses | Bold luxury sun protection | $350 - $1,000 |
| Men's Optical | Premium corrective eyewear | $400 - $900 |
Manufacturing
All frames are handcrafted in Japan in small batches using premium materials and advanced technology for durability and clarity.53
Notable Products
- Black Series - Luxury mainline sunglasses with uncompromising craftsmanship.
- Vintage Archive Frames - Reintroduced 1970s avant-garde designs emphasizing authenticity.
- Balenciaga Collaboration - Innovative co-designed bold eyewear pieces.
- Emilio Pucci Collaboration - Luxury frames blending heritage patterns with modern cuts.
- Women's Oversized Sunglasses - Fashion-forward sunwear favored by celebrities like Gigi Hadid.
Reputation
Linda Farrow is perceived by enthusiasts and professionals as a pioneer in luxury eyewear for its innovative designs, high-quality Japanese craftsmanship, and high-profile collaborations that elevate sunglasses to fashion staples.1234 It garners praise for blending vintage heritage with contemporary style and celebrity appeal, though its premium pricing positions it as an aspirational rather than accessible brand.13