Style File: Danielle Rattray
Danielle on Balance and Boldness in Eyewear
Eyewear tells a story before you even say a word. In this Style File series I’m talking to the designers behind some of the most interesting frames out there, about their story. I’ll be asking what inspired their collections, which frames they’re secretly obsessed with and how they see the world through their own designs.
Frame Collection and Designer Name: Danielle Rattray
What was the starting point or inspiration for the collection?
Music and travel! I have a big collection of vinyl and this year I managed to find some rare new records and got a new player in my studio, it was a nice energy. I had more time on the road too this year – I was Paris and London as usual but this year I got to Sheffield, Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester also. I love Paris it always influences me but I’m a British girl at heart so the collection ended up a mix of the two cultures.
Were there any unexpected influences that shaped these frames?
I think I got more confident, and some of my strongest or bolder designs became my best sellers. I think that set the tone for a great collection.
What’s the story behind your favourite frame from this collection?
This year it was Riv. It was actually one of my first designs. It was so unique when I first drew it, and it sat next to Jean. I loved the two of them together. They were like sisters. Similar, and obviously from the same DNA, but one a little more punky (Riv) than the other. In that first collection we couldn’t fit them both in, and Jean became a superstar. Last year I went back to Riv, made some small adjustments and worked on a gorgeous colour palate. I was so happy to see Riv launch, and she has gone on to become a fantastic frame for so many faces. It was like having a really good song in waiting – it’s such a joy when they are released and well received.
Was this an easy design or one you really had to fight for?
It was a design I had in my mind for a little while. How to mix strong, straight angles but create a feeling of a cat eye. Sometimes things take time to be just right.
If this frame (or collection) had a theme song, what would it be?
Oh that’s so hard for me! I think I’d have to say Patti Smith, Frederick. Solid but also light and lots of spirit!
What’s a small detail most people overlook in a frame, but you obsess over?
I think people overlook fit and balance in design. The design colour, details get all the attention, but to me the essence of good design is how the wearer feels with the frames on. They need to be so comfortable and feel fantastic. It takes a lot of work to get weight and balance just right.
If you could see anyone in the world wearing your frames, who would it be?
Oh, Debbie Harry. She is a sunglass wearer and has such great style, and also of course is an icon. A hero of mine.
Have you ever designed something that you loved but nobody else really got?
Yes definitely. That’s a part of design just as much as a success. Sometimes things take time and the right moment. As a designer you love all your designs, but sometimes you have to know when the right moment is.
This or That?
Quick fire questions. When it comes to frames which do you choose?
Chunky or fine - Chunky
Oversized or small - Can I say ‘oversized small’ ? It’s my signature!
Rounded or angular - Angular
Bold or subtle colour - Bold
Heavyweight or featherlight - Neither. Has to be ‘just right’.
Vintage or futuristic - Vintage
Maximalist or minimalist - Minimalist
Symmetry or asymmetry - Symmetry
Sketch or mood board - Mood Board
Intuition or data - Intuition always
Complement or clash - Complement
Eye Style and Danielle Rattray
I met Danielle at her first launch at 100% Optical. I was instantly captivated by how she’d captured exactly what the market was missing; small fitting frames meant for bold people. The structure and quality of the frames is apparent to the wearer, who never fails to comment on how well they actually fit. I have two favourite designs, one of which is Riv; the frame I find equally striking is Lowe.
Want to Find Out More?
You can find Danielle Rattray at Eyestyle Studio.
Follow Danielle Rattray on Instagram here. Visit their website here.