Finlay & Co is born in August 2012 in Notthing Hill from the hands of Dave Lochhead, Tom Stannard and Dane Butler. A young brand that in little time has been able to get noticed internationally for their iconic sunglasses. Their eyewear can't be defined as “classically” British, but they are inspired by tradition and heritage adding new character and aesthetic directions.
The most important feature of the brand is its uniqueness of products. In fact, their sunglasses are all made out of wood, meaning that no pair is like another. This concept is highlighted by the option of the “bespoke service” that allows the customer to laser engrave the initials or the name onto the temple of the sunglasses.
During the making of Finlay & Co's sunglasses craftsmanship is essential: their products have to pass 16 meticulous steps before considered to be saleable. This is obviously a guarantee for achieving the finest comfort and quality.
For now, the brand proposes five different models of sunglasses: Carnaby, Beaumont, Thurloe, Ledbury and Bosworth. The Carnaby is made from layers of Maplewood, the Beaumont is completed with a Gold frame providing a luxurious finish, the Ledbury is inspired by the 50s famous shapes (creating a classical and sophisticated style for modern generations), while the Bosworth is characterized by an unmistakable rounded design.
But the ace of the collection is doubtless the Thurloe. Its design “encompasses everything that Finlay & Co. stands for, challenging what’s accepted to provide the remarkably unexpected.” In this model classic hardwood is accompanied by a gold frame producing the most iconic and timeless piece in the collection.
Finlay & Co's won the Shell LiveWIRE Grand Ideas Award in 2012 and has been recently selected by Vogue Italia for a fashion exhibition in Milan. The brand is very young but seems to have already found its key for success.
March 25, 2014
University of Cincinnati
Design Skolen Kolding
Central Saint Martins
Academy of Design Australia
LOFT 42
SBID
