Lifestyle

The Art of Deconstruction: How French Philosophy Became Fashion

the art of deconstructionism

If you’ve been taking notice of the eyewear trends of late, you’ll notice some strange and wonderful designs that look totally unique. Designs where frames may appear slightly unfinished, lenses that have unique shapes and curves, and classic silhouettes with a slight twist.

This look is ‘deconstructionism’, a fashion trend that was once an art movement, thought up by the French philosopher, Jacques Derrida. Born in Algeria into a Sephardic Jewish family (that became French in 1870 when the Crémieux Decree granted full French citizenship to the indigenous Arabic-speaking Jews of Algeria), Jacques Derrida was an inspired child. One that grew up in awe of the works of philosophers and writers such as Rousseau or Nietzsche. In his older years, he came to teach philosophy at a number of prestigious schools and colleges in Paris before releasing his best work, ‘De la Grammatologie‘, in 1967; a book which introduced the idea of deconstructionism and his outlook on the relationship between text and meaning.

Today, deconstruction is better known in modern art and over the years, this concept has become a style used by fashion designers across all corners of the globe. One of the first fashion houses (and probably most well known for this particular style) is Maison Martin Margiela. From the raw hems and unfinished cuts to the unusual application of fabrics and textures, Maison Margiela is a big advocator of this artistic movement. His collections very much reflect that.

maison margiela deconstructionism

Other designers have followed, including BCBG Maxazria, Christian Dior, Fendi, Prada and more. And the art of deconstruction is now a well know concept used in clothing, shoes and accessories, including eyewear and prescription frames. Eyewear styles, particularly from brands like Miu Miu and Vera Wang, feature some unique features in SS17. Think de-compartmentalised frames, topsy turvy designs, rimless or semi-rimless lenses, cut-out and laser cut, back to front layering, or disjointed wire detailing that looks somehow incomplete. It’s all a part of the contemporary storyline and these designer glasses are always a great talking point amongst fashion circles.

Here are some of our favourite deconstructed eyewear styles to try this season:

The Half Frame from Vera Wang

There’s nothing chicer than a half-finished frame front these days, and this Vera Wang Luxe SAPPHO frame is a must-have for the spring / summer season. With 5 on trend colours to choose from!


Buy Now »

Cut Off Lenses from Miu Miu 

These super stylish sunglasses from Miu Miu feature a classic design with a twist! The bottom of the lenses and frame front appear to have been sliced off with a machine. A seriously contemporary design with all the timeless detailing you would expect from oversized black sunglasses – an ode to both old and new. And a must have for every woman’s wardrobe this summer.

Buy Now »

The Unfinished Frame from Fendi

These sunglasses are super cool, with an upside down semi rim and reflective mirror lenses for extra cool points. Make sure you check out the entire Fendi collection for more out-of-this-world futuristic designs like this one…

Buy Now »

The Inside Out Glasses from Givenchy 

If you love deconstructionism, you will love these designer frames from Givenchy. Featuring wire ‘stitch’ detailing on the frame front for a playful inside out look.

Buy Now »

Want to find out more about this year’s HOTTEST statement sunglasses? See our recent blog post.

Instagram