Skip to main content

Barton Perreira Gives Good Shade

Warm weather is sure to approach soon, we promise! And with it comes that ultimate summer accessory – shades. While we have piles of el cheapo plastic ones and even some stylish reasonably priced ones, it’s always  a luxury to invest in a good looking, high quality pair for more social or work related occasions than the backyard barbecue. Barton Perreira is one luxury brand we have been watching for quite some time.

The company was launched in 2007 by a trio who have a deep knowledge of the eyewear world:  Patty Perreira, Bill Barton and Tim Cadiente shared a desire to challenge the eyewear industry.  A self-taught designer, the California-born Patty Perreira honed her skills during her 18-year tenure at Oliver Peoples. Bill Barton has been at the center of a number of industry defining moments over the last twenty years. As president of Oliver Peoples (2002 -2006)  he was an integral part in the growth of Optical Shop of Aspen. From the beginning of Barton Perreira, Tim Cadiente has been hands on with all imagery.

Recommended Videos

Barton Perreira is known for their unique shapes, subtle colors and textures as well as their innovative process such as Cloisonné, an ancient Chinese art form that uses multiple steps in the enamel process. Each sunglass that features the technique is masked by hand to conceal specific sections so that the focus is on the frame front for cloisonné application. Then each frame front has the colored cloisonné applied by hand and then it is completed with a top coat for a high-gloss finish. They also specialize in hand painted enamel. The enameling process appears throughout the collections and is a technique used since ancient times. The process is all done by hand to create the most beautiful and precise finishing.

Recently they have also gained exposure for their great collaborations. In 2012 they worked with friend and fan, actor Givoanni Ribisi. “When Barton Perreira approached me about designing these frames, it was something I jumped on,” Ribisi said. “Sunglasses are intimate, especially to one’s individual identity because they sit on the face. It was challenging and I learned a lot, but it was an honor to work with the Barton Perreira team and a company that strives to create excellent product.”

As the luxury line has grown they have opened two stores in the US. The Nashville store opened in 2012. “Nashville is an exciting city, it has an old world charm and soul but is a very permissive city,” Patty Perreira says “I was excited about opening the store in Nashville because of the progressive and alternative counter culture that has developed there. I admire the people of Nashville’s diverse love of music and art.”

The Aspen boutique opened in 2011. “Aspen is where I began my optical journey,” says Bill Barton. “Aspen’s international customers and loyal locals will give the Barton Perreira brand amazing worldwide exposure.”

Recently the brand worked with Ernest Alexander (one of our favorites) and with Ovadia & Sons to accessorize their spring summer 2014 fashion shows.

If you are looking for an eyewear line that isn’t your typical department store find with an artisanal edge, look no further. Just please don’t sit on them.

Cator Sparks
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Cator Sparks was the Editor-in-Chief of The Manual from its launch in 2012 until 2018. Previously, Cator was covering…
Rolex Submariner: A prestige watch that’s more than just a timepiece
Discover the iconic Submariner: A timeless symbol of luxury and adventure
Rolex Submariner Ref 5512 1972 showing the dial and case

Introduced in 1953, the Rolex Submariner is recognized as the first purpose-built dive watch on the market, boasting water resistance up to 100 meters. In addition to this amazing feature, Submariner Rolex watches also come equipped with other extras that I particularly appreciate, including rotating 60-minute timing bezels, stainless steel cases, stainless steel three-link Oyster bracelets, black dials, and black bezels.

The earliest editions of Rolex Submariner watches featured 37 mm steel cases, no crown guards around the winding crowns, and radium-based luminescence. Eight references were manufactured during this initial phase of the series, ranging in water depth ratings, crown sizes, and dial styles. These early experimentation models only ensured that Rolex perfected a formula that combined elegance and precision. Are you ready to enter the world of Rolex Submariner? Here, we break down the full details of the iconic series.
Key features of the Rolex Submariner

Read more
Ghurka partners with David Coggins to design the ‘ideal’ bag
The new Field Tote is available for pre-order and estimated to ship by May 31.
The Ghurka x David Coggins Field Tote in olive twill with brown leather straps and trim.

Ask author and menswear expert David Coggins what makes a good bag, and he'll likely tell you it's about more than just carrying your gear — it “announces your relationship to function and style." That's why he partnered with iconic leather goods maker Ghurka to create his version of the ideal carryall: the new, limited-edition Field Tote No. 296.

Launched just last week, this rugged yet refined bag pays tribute to Ghurka’s dedication to producing high-quality leather goods and Coggins's love for traditional design. The practical yet thoughtful design elements, like the leather flap closure and zip pocket, give it a classic yet functional feel. And right now, you can pre-order it on Ghurka's website.
It’s an upgraded version of the Market Tote No. 294

Read more
These new Clarks shoes have been in the making for months
Clarks unveils their newest stellar collaboration
sunbleached clarks

In recent seasons, it has been evident that Clarks has been stepping up its collaborations. With one-of-a-kind partnerships, the renowned British brand is seeking collaborations with other brands to revitalize and modernize its iconic silhouettes. In their latest adventure, the brand turns to JiyoungKim, a previous collaborator, to help bring a new look to the iconic Wallabee and Desert Trek silhouettes. After working together in a sold-out collaboration in September of last year, there was no doubt that this new collection would be another marvel. Not to disappoint, the pair has launched a new look for the Wallabee and Desert Trek shoes, which takes months to put together. Utilizing the renowned sun-bleaching technique of the South Korean designer, the latest collaborative shoe is nothing short of extraordinary. For the lucky few who get their hands on these new shoes, you will be pleased to know that no pair is the same, and all don a unique sun-bleaching look that’s worthy of praise. 

JiyongKim x Clarks Sun-Bleached Wallabee and Raw Edge Desert Trek

Read more