TWELV sits down with founders of Parlor Social Club Jan Cieslikiewicz and Frederick Ghartey to give a glimpse into the story of co-founders living in New York City.
NEW TYPE #5: HAZE Collection INTERVIEW
March 17, 2015 3:51 PM
"Introducing a new generation of designers"
Since its inception just last year, HAZE Collection has proven itself a heat-seeker in innovative eyewear. With a focus on the finest material, boundary-pushing designs and a crisp brand image, HAZE has positioned itself amongst the leaders of contemporary eyewear.
At the core of HAZE is its commitment to creating product of the highest echelon. Each frame is cut from slabs of pure acetate, sourced firsthand in Italy. This means that no frame is identical; each marble nuance is almost personalized for the wearer. HAZE employs its patented pending SWIV3L™ engineering to styles; a three-pronged, metal hinge that ensures maximum durability.
---------------- HAZE Collection's INTERVIEW ----------------
Susan Schell: How did Haze Collection get started?
HAZE Collection: It is actually quite random. I was supposed to travel to Taiwan to see a really good friend and somehow I didn't get all the required documents and got rejected at the airport. My business partner was trying to comfort me so she bought me lunch. I was complaining how eyewear/accessories lack of character or are way too over the top etc. She went "How about we start our own?" Then the following week HAZE Collection was registered in New York.
SS: Can you explain your design/creative process?
HC: I first would look at what people are wearing on the street, like in New York City, Milan, Shanghai etc. Then go out shopping, checking out what competitors are doing, flipping through magazines and see what comes into my mind. I tend to come up with a new construction each collection to give a fresh look to the market, which is the hardest part. I will pencil down some ideas and move on to the computer and render everything as realistic as possible so that my business partner would agree with my designs.
SS: Where do you go to source inspiration and ideas for upcoming collections?
HC: Usually my inspiration comes from the relation between architecture and surrounding elements. Walking around in a hardware store could also give me a lot of thoughts. However, you never know what might trigger new ideas.
SS: Where did the idea of the “Shield” or metal mesh sunglasses come form?
HC: I was thinking to create two looks for people, a calm version and a party version. I was attending a mask party and it triggered me that it would be so cool if I was wearing an all gold metal mask! I was obsessed with magnet when I was a design student so I chose to use magnet for the construction. The pattern was inspired by a piece of furniture from the "MING" dynasty while I was traveling in China.
SS: I am personally obsessed with your Crystal Amethyst “Edge” glasses, but all the “Edge” styles have really fun colors, do you have a favorite style or color way?
HC: My personal favorite is the Crystal Fire. It's just so noticeable. And of course the new EDGE colors which are coming out are SUPER cool as well!
SS: What was it that first drew you to designing sunglasses and eyewear?
HC: It was also a random opportunity that I got an internship before I graduated. It was a bit out of my comfort zone because it was different from what I studied. It turns out I'm pretty good at it!
SS: Do you have a favorite general style or shape of sunglasses/eyewear?
HC: My favorite is the P-3 shape which is just like the EDGE.
SS: Do you have a pair of sunglasses that you are the most proud of?
HC: I like to take my EDGE out most of the time I'm wearing sunglasses. I also have a pair of Dior that I have to say is pretty amazing.
SS: What can we expect from Haze Collection in the future?
HC: A lot! There is a lot coming up this year and next season. I can't really disclose more details yet. But HAZE is bringing something different to the table soon.
WRITTEN & INTERVIEWED BY: SUSAN SCHELL
PHOTO CREDIT: BRANDON MERCER
INTRODUCTION: OMEN PR
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