For self-taught designer Carla Robertson it was the birth of her twins that put things in her life into a new perspective. A former television producer, she decided to establish her own label of unisex eyewear under the name of Carla Color in November 2014. Her debut collection launched in a single circular style in three different acetate colors – electric blue, acid orange and deep purple – but it has grown to include additional vintage-inspired frames; Carla’s appreciation for the vintage culture is hard to miss, and was explained in detail in her one-on-one interview in Tales of Endearment. We sat down with Carla to discuss running her brand, the rise of genderless fashion and her future plans.
How does a television producer finds herself in the eyewear business?
I’d always dreamed of creating eyewear … and then I fell pregnant with twins, and realized if I didn’t launch my brand before they arrived, I’d never do it! So, I harnessed my second trimester hormones and made it happen.
You launched with one circular style but you are introducing new shapes in your collection. Based on what criteria are you expanding your collection?
Classic unisex shapes with a personality twist. I love the aesthetics of geometry and the clarity of minimalist design.
Who do you say has been the biggest influence in your work?
My husband. He is always encouraging me to let go of fear and make magic happen.
What are the main materials you use, and how are your pieces brought to life?
My search for materials always begins with color. I use Zyl acetate because hues can be embedded within the material, so the color will never peel or fade. It also originates from wood pulp and cotton fibers which are both renewable resources. I choose high quality CR39 lenses in bespoke colors, and these are 100% UVA/UVB protective.
My frames are all hand-made and fitted with five gear hinges (rather than the standard three gear hinge) making them extremely durable and secure.
Our eyewear case is also handmade, using only vegetable-tanned leather. We believe this is a much better option than standard bulky plastic eyewear cases.
We create two limited edition collections per year to avoid waste, and always try to embrace the slow-fashion movement in everything we do.
Since your brand offers unisex eyewear, I can’t help but ask your opinion on the rise of genderless fashion.
I’m all for it! Style transcends gender. When I think about my style icons, Leigh Bowery, David Bowie, Boy George, I realize that I’ve never identified them as male or female. Rather that they are unique individuals with a powerful ability to express themselves, free from gender constructs. I believe this is when fashion and style becomes true artistic expression.
Do you think formal design training is necessary for anyone looking to start their own label? Did you have any formal training?
I haven’t had any formal training in fashion or design, but I have always had a fierce curiosity for personal style. The most important thing to learn before starting your own brand is your own sense of style. Having an authentic point of view is your most powerful asset.
How much are you involved in the design? Would you rather be involved in any other aspect of your brand?
I am 100% involved in each part of the process. My brand is a pure execution of my voice and vision, and that feels great to me.
How have you been marketing your product, and in which countries do you look to expansion?
I am starting to market my brand now within the world of social media. I have a great following in the USA, and I am looking to expand my reach in Europe and Asia this year.
Your next collection is debuting in summer. What should we expect?
My Spring/Summer 2016 collection is inspired by the desert Planet Jakku, Kenzo Okada’s romantic pastel palettes and “Authentic Celestial Music” by The Dirty Three.
What is your ultimate goal for your brand?
Be authentic. Take risks. Have fun.
I believe that self expression in style should be a daily adventure, so I want to keep creating with that always in mind.
www.carlacolour.com
Images © Carla Colour
Featured image via
