OG x OLIVER GOLDSMITH" explores new possibilities in eyewear by skillfully blending the essence of modernity with a respect for the traditions of British design. This goes well with suits," said illustrator Akira Sorimachi as he picked up an item that is both modern and classic. We asked Mr. Sorimachi, who owns many British items, to explain the charm of these items and also to explore the secret of the design of "OG by Oliver Goldsmith".
Born in Tokyo, Japan, he has been active as a freelance illustrator since 1991. He has worked on illustrations for magazines, books, and advertisements. On the other hand, he also has a deep knowledge of fashion, especially suits and traditional styles.
It is more elegant while respecting tradition.
What kind of British items do you have, Mr. Solimachi?
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesThere are some clothes, but there are probably more small items. These include notebooks, ballpoint pens, shoes, and bags. For such stationery and clothing items, they may tend to choose British items.
What do you find attractive about British items?
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesThey are made with high quality materials, using careful manufacturing methods, and are very reliable. The more you use such items, the more attractive they become. For example, tweed jackets, the more you wear them, the more they become familiar with your skin. I think the charm of British items is that the more you use them, the more they become more attractive.
OG×OLIVER GOLDSMITH〉Eyewear ¥37,000＋TAX
What is your opinion about British eyewear?
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesI think the UK is also a country of formal styles. Therefore, I feel that glasses are also designed to match this style. Wearing glasses makes suits look more dignified and stoic. I myself really like to wear suits, so when I choose a pair of glasses, I always consider whether or not they go with that style.
I see.
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesThis is a personal story, but when I think of British eyewear, the atmosphere of movies from the 1960s is burned into my mind. The crisp appearance of actors such as Peter Sellers and Michael Caine left a strong impression on me. While American eyewear is more traditional and heavy-duty, I feel that British eyewear is more elegant while respecting tradition. I feel that they are designed with an awareness of wearing them in the city.
He said the design is more pronounced.
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesYes, it is. I think the design has a modern feel while respecting a classic mood.
We want to firmly assert it as one of our personalities.
What kind of eyewear do you yourself like, Mr. Solimachi?
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesI still like frames with classic shapes. I once had a pair of antique glasses made in the 50s or 60s, but they didn't fit me, so I had a pair made to order in my own size. At that time, there were not that many eyewear with all-plastic frames, and I have the impression that the appearance of "Oliver Goldsmith" made them more popular. I remember thinking that it was great that it had become easier to find items that I liked.
Do you own items from this brand yourself?
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesI have one item here. I bought it because I thought it was a very British design.
What are your criteria for selecting eyewear?
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesIf there are people who like things to blend in when they put them on their face and people who like things to stand out, I am the latter. I am the latter. That is why I choose products that have a strong individuality.
He said he values presence.
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesI feel like I wear eyewear as part of my personality. It is an indispensable part of my identity.
It is a way to tighten one's mind and change one's mannerisms.
Aussie by Oliver Goldsmith" is a line that updates the design philosophy cultivated by "Oliver Goldsmith" to a more contemporary style.
OG × OLIVER GOLDSMITH〉CUT four 50 SG ¥39,000+TAX, Re.COMMANDER 49 SG ¥40,000+TAX, PUT IN two 49 ¥40,000+TAX, PUT IN one 46 ¥40,000+TAX, CUT two 44 ¥36,000+TAX, CUT one 44 ¥36,000+TAX
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesIt gives the impression of a more English modern look while still retaining a classic taste. It matches my taste very well. Also, I prefer celluloid frames to metal frames, and I like the fact that the item I am wearing now is celluloid and still has a classic atmosphere. I also like the size of the frames. Ideally, I would like to have frames that are about the same width as my face.
How do you feel about wearing it?
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesThey feel very solid and comfortable. Items with large, thick frames are very strong and hold up well, but wearing them makes you feel turned on. In the same way that wearing a suit makes you stand up straight, wearing eyeglasses makes you feel more relaxed, and it gives you a sense that your behavior is changing. This item helps to facilitate that feeling. That's how I feel about this item.
Finally, please tell us what role eyewear plays for you.
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesI started wearing glasses when I was in my thirties. More than 20 years later, they are still indispensable. As I mentioned earlier, I think of them as a part of my personality, so they are indispensable in expressing fashion.
crescent-shaped archway connecting the lower branches of a temple and the upper branchesIn addition to the two actors mentioned above, Woody Allen, painter David Hockney, and designer Yves Saint Laurent also wear eyewear, and they are all stylish. In that sense, I think eyewear is an item that makes people look attractive. Wearing eyewear makes you feel good. If it is something beautiful, it is even better.
