Text by: Nuno Rama
LUXURY Accessible only to a select few, luxury has always been synonymous with exclusivity and rarity, and is also associated with a certain degree of power and a distinctive lifestyle. One thing is certain: desired by some and envied by others, not everyone can attain it, but everyone feels its appeal. To give you an idea, according to some forecasts, the global market for luxury consumer goods could reach the stratospheric figure of 310 billion euros.
Luxury has been rooted in human nature since the earliest societies. This is immediately evident in the excavations carried out over time by archaeologists, who find certain types of objects in graves that help distinguish the people who used them by their social class and status. However, the conceptual perception of luxury is not always limited to objects and goods. In underdeveloped countries, luxury takes on many other forms and is linked to what underpins human survival.
In a contemporary adaptation of the concept of luxury, someone stated, “luxury is the vision and access to what makes us feel unique, without harming the universe.” In line with this philosophy and to ensure that the unbridled race toward consumption does not continue to have devastating effects on the environment, it is essential and urgent to change attitudes.
The luxury industry, aware of its global role and shifting consumer behaviors (particularly among Generation Z), has been showing signs of change. In this regard, since sustainable development is essential for the preservation of ecosystems and the environment, the strategies outlined by companies must be implemented based on a well-thought-out, integrated, unified, comprehensive, and long-term approach. Companies have had time to reflect; now, the key is to take action. Issues such as the circular economy, innovation in the production of new materials aimed at replacing natural leathers, and the control of waste released into the environment are taken very seriously. Although seemingly contradictory, the concepts of luxury and sustainability share values such as quality, rarity, and beauty, and are defined by durability.
Eyewear is in style and remains a distinctive fashion accessory. Hollywood stars and icons of pop music and fashion wear glasses at all their public appearances, whether day or night. Their mysterious and glamorous styles are repeatedly copied generation after generation by millions of followers, seeking to capture that certain “je ne sais quoi.” Sometimes, one might confuse the practical need to wear glasses with image-conscious fashion, but they are, in fact, accessories that not only protect against the harmful effects of sunlight but can also correct vision problems. International fashion houses—Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Tom Ford, Cartier—feature them as the finale of their fashion collections. Since eyewear is an indispensable object, and because every human being is a unique work of art, sculpted by nature and endowed with free will, they must be transformed into exclusive pieces capable of bestowing upon each wearer a distinct mystique and identity.
In our stores in Lisbon, Porto, and Maputo, our most exclusive collections stand out for their craftsmanship, which embodies the essence of individuality. The adornments may include inlays of precious stones, diamonds, sapphires, or emeralds. The sparkle of diamonds captivates the beholder and highlights a rare beauty. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend. With solid gold decorations, the frames crafted from exotic woods are velvety to the touch, gliding over our fingers and stimulating the senses with comfort. You can also feel the satiny sheen of horn-framed glasses that make them stand out on any face due to their distinction. Don’t be surprised if the silver embellishments on Chrome Hearts pieces transport you to history and the Spanish caravels laden with treasures from the New World. For purists, the solid gold of Cartier pieces are unique jewels, symbols of fortune. You’ll surely be surprised to discover that black gold isn’t just a synonym for oil. The Danish eyewear manufacturer Lindberg offers a diverse range of black gold frames—an option that might be the choice for those who prefer a more understated look.
Synonymous with luxury, it can also be seen as an opportunity to serve with dedication and passion all those who, over the past 40 years, have continued to seek out Optocentro’s services.
