ON SHAPE: "Forget about what shapes fit what faces . . . people rarely take that into consideration these days. The biggest decision is whether you wear the frame to show off the logo on the temple or you're wearing them because you realise that sunglasses are as essential an accessory as shoes and bags. . . maybe even more so."

ON BRANDING: "Sunglasses are now so much more than an easy sale as an add-on for the big brands and people are seeking out quality and individualism, rather than just following the flock, which is good news for independent designers like us."

ON TRENDS: "I would have to say big is still best. Rounder to almost circular frames are in vogue for the ladies, while guys have a selection of boxy, rigidly square frames to choose from. Colour is a much more important issue . . . and whether or not you want to wear a metal frame. If you want to follow the Hoxton/Shoreditch club set then primary colours and day glo are steaming hot and strangely enough this trend is mirrored in Sydney and LA . . . it's that whole Klaxons new rave thing. . .

Vintage translucent colours are going strong and the classic black and tortoiseshell still flies off the shelves for the conservative buyer. Metals aren't as popular anymore, although the aviator is still massive. The biggest explosion on the sunnies scene is the return of the Wayfarer [the Top Gun Rayban look]. It's a classic no doubt but is in danger of being flogged to death also."