Silmo ‘24 marks 10 years since Kirk & Kirk’s first collection.
A decade has passed since Kirk & Kirk’s inaugural collection, a milestone commemorated at Silmo ’24. The longevity may come as unexpected, given the British design duo, Jason and Karen Kirk, have been crafting eyewear for over three decades. Their enduring passion for eyewear design is a testament to their authenticity and dedication to their craft.
The Kirk family optical history began over a 100 years ago when brothers Sidney and Percy Kirk launched Kirk Brothers, with the sole objective of establishing London as the centre of optical excellence.
They helped other competitive companies set up factories, figuring that if the industry did well, they would do well, a generous approach that would serve our industry well today.
They were also great innovators, creating ‘Facifit’ – the first adjustable nose-pads, and creating all sorts of tools and marketing which they shared across the profession.
Two generations later, husband and wife, Jason and Karen, express their innovation, principally through the material that they use.
“We have developed a unique grade of Italian acrylic that weighs virtually nothing. It is so comfortable to wear, despite the chunky appearance.”
The collection is sold in around 500 independent optical stores globally and the new sunglass collection is starting to have an impact in the fashion world. With 30 years’ experience behind them, the Kirks’ passion for optics is as bright as ever.
“We are very excited about our new Silmo releases. My role will take me on some interesting trips later in the year to explore new market opportunities as the world of the independent optician evolves to welcome new and inspiring territories.”
Are you interested in learning more about their amazing history, or seeing their latest Kirk & Kirk collections then be sure to make an appointment to see them at Silmo – Stand 7/G075
Kirk & Kirk is a British eyewear brand, whose frames are produced from start to finish in one factory in France. They are unique and recognizable due to their use of colour, which is partly due to their choice of materials.
Shooting: TEFdoesMADRID
Eyewear: Violet by Kirk & Kirk
Model: Nurio Gomez
Handmade from their K-Lite™ material, their frames weigh a fraction compared to conventional acetate, allowing them to produce chunky-looking frames that are extremely light and very comfortable to wear.
Not only that but their frames are 100% recyclable.
Some of the latest styles by Kirk and Kirk:
Layla
Eye size: 54 - 19 - 143
Layla is an elegant upswept frame that blends understated bevels, precise chamfers, and hand-polished details into a refined silhouette, all wrapped in a smooth matte finish. Designed to command attention with quiet confidence, Layla speaks the language of effortless sophistication.
Van
Eye size: 53 - 20 - 148
Van is a frame for all seasons—effortlessly versatile, undeniably stylish. With its clean lines and balanced proportions, Van is designed to suit any gender, any occasion, offering a look that feels both contemporary and timeless. It’s the kind of frame that quietly enhances your presence, bringing an elegant confidence to every outfit.
William
Eye size: 53 - 19 - 148
William is built for those who like to think big—whether you have a larger head or simply appreciate the bold statement of oversized eyewear. With its generous proportions and strong silhouette, William doesn’t shy away from presence, yet never compromises on comfort.
Robin
Eye size: 53 - 17 - 143
Robin is a modern legend—bold, self-assured, and effortlessly cool. With its retro-inspired shape and strong lines, Robin channels vintage attitude through a contemporary lens, creating a silhouette that’s as confident as it is charismatic.
Thor
Eye size: 56 - 14 - 143
Thor is the protector—a bold, post-modern frame that channels power through precision. With its sculptural form and striking presence, Thor is a skilful concentration of strength and design, capturing attention and admiration in equal measure. It’s no surprise this frame is winning awards—and hearts—around the globe.
Storm
Eye size: 51 - 21 - 143
Storm is the hurricane—a dynamic force of design that harnesses the raw energy of nature. With its assertive shape and bold presence, Storm delivers a look that’s strong, confident, and unapologetically powerful.
Blaze
Eye size: 53 - 16 - 143
Blaze is the aviator reimagined—a frame that sets the sky alight with attitude and edge. With its commanding shape and fearless energy, Blaze is statement eyewear for those who lead with confidence and mean business wherever they go.
Finn
Eye size: 54 - 20 - 143
Finn channels the laid-back spirit of the ‘70s with a modernist twist. With its aviator-inspired silhouette, layered tones, and subtle material stepping, Finn is a masterclass in retro sophistication—crafted to turn heads across generations and genders.
Kit
Eye size: 49 - 17 - 143
Kit is the smallest frame in the collection—smart, uniform, and thoughtfully designed for petite faces. With its precise proportions and refined styling, Kit celebrates delicate features, offering a look that feels both intentional and effortless.
Michelle
Eye size: 57 - 17 - 143
Michelle is a bold, vivacious cat-eye that radiates life, confidence, and unapologetic flair. With its fierce angles and expressive shape, Michelle isn’t just worn—it takes the spotlight, both on your face and in your face.
Cecil
Eye size: 54 - 16 - 143
Cecil is all about bold definition. With its thick edges and sculptural form, this frame naturally emphasises the angles and lines of your face, creating a look that’s both structured and effortlessly cool.
Bert
Eye size: 53 - 17 - 143
Bert is a sleek, retro frame with a gentle soul. Its soft, rounded edges guide the gaze effortlessly back to the eyes, creating a natural focus that feels both inviting and expressive.
Horace
Eye size: 54 - 20 - 143
Horace is a statement piece for the modern mover and shaker—a frame that looks ahead while staying grounded in the now. With its bold lines and purposeful presence, Horace doesn’t just follow trends, it defines them.
The Kirk family have been in optics for over a hundred years.
Inspired by the innovative approach of Sidney and Percy Kirk, Jason and Karen uphold the family legacy, pushing the boundaries of eyewear, exciting and inspiring through their unique use of materials and colour.
Sidney and Percy Kirk took a magnanimous view of the profession. They believed that if the industry was successful, they would be successful, so they worked generously offering other optical folk support in setting up London factories or producing advertising books that opticians were free to use to promote their shops.
They were innovators. They developed the first flexible nose-pads, The Facifit, a game changer in retail optics. They even created a bullet proof glass that Sir Malcolm Campbell used in his goggles to set the world water speed record in the 1930s.
Three generations later, Jason Kirk, Sidney’s grandson and Karen Kirk, the Creative Director, use Kirk Brothers’ principles to guide their ship.
Jason and Karen Kirk started in optics in 1992 and built their company with retail stores and even a UK factory until they sold it twenty years later.
The Vivarium Collection 2015 used under-stated colours to highlight elements of handmade jewellery on the frames. Produced by craftsmen in Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter, each frame was adorned with a small Sterling Silver or 9 carat gold animal, ranging from intricate flies to noble stallions.
In 2017, the iconic Kaleidoscope Collection was launched. 8mm laminated acrylic with combination of colour that played in the light to give different hues according to the thickness of each element of the frame.
In 2019 Kirk & Kirk went even further emphasising the weight benefits of acrylic. The Centena collection is hand-made from 10mm acrylic, an innovation that allows the presence of a chunky, confident piece but with all the comfort of a super light-weight frame.
In 2020, the mini-collection, Matte Centena was born, a sub-set in sand-blasted matte colours that is the ultimate expression of the bold, presence of Kirk & Kirk eyewear.
The 2021 Centiles collections combines some of the attributes of earlier Kirk & Kirk eyewear, using laminated materials but in 10mm thickness.
Read more about this brand on TEF Magazine or visit their website.
More on Kirk and Kirk
EDW 2025 // Top10 Must-See Brands
From March 13 to 15, New York City transforms into the ultimate optical arena as Eyewear Design Week brings together a re-imagined show experience across multiple showrooms. With events like LOFT, EYEcons, and Thelios, this citywide gathering offers unparalleled opportunities for optical retailers to explore the finest independent eyewear. To help you navigate the scene, we’ve curated a Top 10 Shortlist of must-see brands, ensuring you uncover the most exciting and innovative eyewear collections. Let us guide you to the hidden gems that will define the future of eyewear.
TEF Eyewear Advent // On the 11th day of Christmas
On the 11th day of Christmas, TEFmag presents to you, a chunky, statement-making frame without the weight: the Falcon by Kirk and Kirk
Kirk and Kirk // Embrace the Light
Imagine the future of optics—envision a moment where the full potential of the industry is thoughtfully considered. In 1919, Sidney and Percy Kirk embarked on this very journey, and now, two generations later, Jason and Karen Kirk continue to uphold their founding principles. A century of innovation and vision has brought us to this pivotal moment, encapsulated in our latest campaign: *Embrace the Light*.
Kirk and Kirk // Get a share of Independence
Ever thought of owning shares in an independent eyewear brand like Kirk & Kirk? Sign up now for access to invest ahead of the public launch.
Kirk and Kirk // New colour addition for Kaleidoscope
Kirk and Kirk Eyewear has spiced things up with a new colour addition to their Kaleidoscope collection. It’s named Melon, but we think it looks more like a zesty orange! It’s easily one of our top picks, with its pairing of vibrant orange and pink creating a warm, spring-like vibe. But hey, if orange isn’t your jam, don’t worry! Kirk and Kirk offer a rainbow of other colours to match your style.
Kirk & Kirk // The World’s First Handmade Acrylic Sunglasses
Introducing Kirk & Kirk Sunglasses SS2024 The World’s First Handmade Acrylic Sunglasses The Kirk family have been shaping optics for over a century. Since Sidney and Percy Kirk converted a dilapidated sewing machine into a lens cutter in 1919, they have pushed the...
Silmo Eyewear Exhibition Vlog Part 2 | Exploring #KirkandKirk #SabineBe & More!
In the vibrant world of fashion and innovation, The Optical Gallery’s, Nik continues his journey around Silmo Paris in his Part 2 vlog. He finds himself immersed in a whirlwind of creativity and style, exploring the very essence of cutting-edge eyewear trends....
The Eyes Have It // A brand new podcast by Kirk & Kirk
Kirk & Kirk are releasing a new series of podcasts called “The Eyes Have It”. Co-founder Jason Kirk meets luminaries from the worlds of sport, music, film and fashion in a series of intimate discussions that not only reveal their relationships with...
Kirk and Kirk // Reinforcements Have Arrived
The Kirk & Kirk team is happy to announce that Nick Boys has joined their team. Nick will cover the South of England while Andy Heslop will continue to look after the North and Scotland. [bne_testimonials layout=”slider”...
Kirk and Kirk // Limited Kaleidoscopes
Our friends at Kirk & Kirk Eyewear have launched a limited edition collection of nine, brand-new frame combinations. There are only 30 sets in the world, all based on the most popular styles from their Kaleidoscope Collection, which are only available through the...
