Blackburn is carving out its own spot in the sunglasses market &mdash; and doing so in an inclusive and sustainable fashion.

<a href="https://blackburnshades.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Blackburn</a> knows its way around making a killer pair of sunglasses. Unisex, &ldquo;California cool&rdquo; aesthetic, high-quality artistry&mdash;the brand is the epitome of modern edge, fitting for today&rsquo;s It girls like Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and Adut Akech.
Born from a passion for inclusivity, quality craftsmanship, and a deep sense of social responsibility, Blackburn works to change the way we perceive eyewear, by "fostering a connection to the world around us." It's not easy walking the line between timelessness and contemporary, and yet, Blackburn has found the secret of mastering the balance.

Cat-eye sunglasses, round retro specs, mirrored aviators, modern rectangular frames &mdash; by interpreting classic styles with a contemporary flair, each pair of sunglasses inherently captures the highly sought-after "effortlessly cool" aesthetic with the utmost ease. Feeding into this intrinsic coolness is the premium craftsmanship. Designed in Los Angeles but crafted in small batches in Italy, there's a quiet elegance that Blackburn achieves, all accomplished at a moderate price point.
"Finding affordable luxury sunglasses proved to be a challenge," explained Stephen Cheung, the founder of Blackburn. "Most frames under $100 were mass-produced in China and often lacked the quality in its materials and construction. With Blackburn, our sunglasses are lovingly handcrafted by Italian manufacturers who have profoundly operated as family-owned businesses for generations, all while maintaining a retail price under $90."

Sitting at the heart of Blackburn is its deep-seated commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility. It showcases its inclusion through unisex frames, offering a universal appeal with silhouettes that are fitting for all genders, unique facial features, and face shapes.
"I recognize that everyone, irrespective of race or ethnicity, possesses their own distinct features," Cheung said. "My mission was never to create a one-size-fits-all product, but rather a one-size-fits-more. By implementing subtle adjustments such as fine-tuning the nose bridge or incorporating larger silicone nose pads for improved grip, our designs embrace and celebrate the diversity of faces."
But what truly establishes Blackburn's distinct niche in the sunglasses market is its priorly stated love and commitment to social responsibility. We've all heard plenty of buzzy brands promise their sustainable efforts and commitment to protecting the planet. But in an era where "eco-conscious" has become one of fashion's biggest buzzwords, Blackburn backs up its promises with action.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two percent of its annual sales are donated to Stripe Climate's initiative and GRID Alternatives, organizations that work to combat carbon emissions in the air and provide accessible, clean, and renewable energy to low-income families. Cheung has long since recognized the power the fashion industry holds, and how it can be welded as a catalyst for positive change.
Hence, the sustainable initiatives.&nbsp;
"Newer generations yearn for a revolution in the fashion landscape," Cheung said. "The health of our climate stands as the most formidable threat we face today. Basking in the sun's warmth without giving back is no longer an option. Promoting solar energy and broadening its accessibility worldwide feels both poetically fitting and undeniably necessary."
When it comes to building a more eco-friendly future, Blackburn understands that its dedication to sustainability is a continuous journey. The brand has pledged to adopt biodegradable acetate by 2025 &mdash; ensuring all of its acetate frames will be crafted from plant-based sources.&nbsp;
It's one thing to create sleek and stylish glasses&mdash;it's another thing to do so inclusively and sustainably. Blackburn hits that sweet spot of function, consciousness, and trend. In an industry that never slows down, <a href="https://blackburnshades.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Blackburn</a> finds steadiness, proving that style can go hand-in-hand with purpose, passion, and solidarity.

All photos courtesy of Blackburn.

Blackburn is Changing the Eyewear Game One Pair of Sunglasses at a Time

L'OFFICIEL USA December 2024 - Julianne Moore Cover

Blackburn is Changing the Eyewear Game One Pair of Sunglasses at a Time

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