Just in time for a proper summer, we've got the coolest handcrafted shades around: Monokel's SS17 collection.

"technical precision and innovation... effortless"

Based in Stockholm, their brand philosophy is all about simplicity, functionality, and high quality. Just like any true Scandinavian, they combine technical precision with innovation to make it all look super effortless. There's a lot to be said for this aesthetic, and Monokel are becoming design icons in their own right, using their mid-century Nordic modernist heritage to the absolute best it can be.

Here at Number Six, we're big fans of authenticity and genuine background, it makes for trustworthy products we want to invest in. The two founders of Monokel are professional skateboarders and filmmakers, which makes for a good standing amongst their growing worldwide following. They're designed with everyone in mind, from the BMX-ers and snowboarders to the super style conscious amongst us.

"outstanding visual quality"

It doesn't stop with great heritage, either, Monokel use premium plant-based acetate for their frames, with lenses from Carl Zeiss Vision. Carl Zeiss Vision is a brand synonymous with outstanding visual quality, they've spent years honing their craft (just like Monokel), and it all leads to absolutely cracking eyewear for us at the end of the process. They self-proclaim to keep in touch with the human mind, and its 'need for creative expression', we couldn't agree more.

For SS17, we've brought in some reinvented classics and some cutting edge design for good measure. Here in the store, our staff already have their eyes on a shade or two...

Bryony:

"The Nelson is one of Monokel's recurring styles and it's an absolute classic. It's one of those frames you can't go wrong with, it's got a bit of everything making one fully-functioning eyewear champion. Not to mention versatile for all year-round, whether it's sunny or not, I recommend keeping these on the go anyway."

Matt:

"I'm focused on the Barstow in the green demi colourway, it's super rounded and so is a more modern interpretation of some of the very first sunglasses designs ever. All shades were originally circular, so the Barstow is an example of an updated touch to a timeless classic. What more could you want?"