Earlier this week, Lebanese-born and Dubai-based fashion influencer, Karen Wazen, launched her new sunglasses collection at Harvey Nichols in London.
Since the launch of her eyewear label late last year, Wazen has been fiercely making her way into the international arena, and this collection is her latest success. With a growing appeal extending beyond Arabic speakers to people all over the world, Wazen’s stature has been flourishing ever more as a fashion influencer on social media in recent months.
Wazen’s exclusive collection of retro style glasses is currently on display at the pop-up showroom for Maison Pyramide on the fourth floor of Harvey Nichols. Having participated in several fashion weeks in the past, Wazen’s launch at Harvey Nichols is certainly not her first international exposure, but it is definitely the most important one. On top of viewing the collection, the event allowed guests to meet the designer in person and to pre-order her sunglasses. Wazen shared her excitement for that unforgettable day on her Instagram page, where she also extended her thanks to all who attended.
In Wazen’s view, eyewear is a very expressive form of fashion. What makes it so different from other fashion statements is that it can be adapted to suit anyone’s taste. Wazen reveals that the designs for this collection were inspired by her own personal insecurity about her own eyes for many years. Although the collection is far from typical, Wazen believes that the designs are suitable for everyone. “I hope anyone who looks at the range of sunglasses in the collection will be able to find their own favorite style,” she tells Vogue Arabia.
The collection’s designs range from retro round glasses and cat-eye styles to thin, rectangular glasses with trendy red or blue coloured lenses. While Wazen is known for the extravagant wardrobe and luxurious lifestyle on display on her Instagram page, this collection balances luxury with affordability. Prices range from $135 to $145, which is a world apart from high-end luxury eyewear where prices can start at $400.
With her growing success, Wazen, the mother of three young children, is fast becoming a role model for other Arab women designers who hope to make their way in the international fashion arena.