Imagine stepping into a dusty London attic back in 2003, where crates of forgotten treasures—bold, colorful sunglasses from the 1970s—sat waiting to be rediscovered. That’s exactly what happened when Simon Jablon stumbled upon his mother Linda Farrow’s old designs, sparking a revival that turned a vintage find into a global luxury powerhouse. As someone who’s spent years hunting for that perfect pair of shades to elevate an outfit, I remember my first Linda Farrow encounter: a sleek aviator that felt like it was made just for me, blending retro flair with modern edge. Now, at 80, Linda herself is stepping back into the spotlight, modeling her own creations and reflecting on a career that’s redefined eyewear. From her modeling days to pioneering fashion-forward frames, her story is one of innovation, family, and timeless style. Let’s explore how this eyewear icon built her legacy, embraced the camera again, and is charting a bold path forward for her namesake brand.
The Early Days: From Fashion Student to Eyewear Innovator
Linda Farrow’s journey began in the swinging ’60s when she graduated from the London College of Fashion and spotted a massive gap in the market.
Sunglasses back then were functional at best—drab black or brown tortoiseshell affairs that screamed utility over style. She launched her eponymous brand in 1970, treating shades as must-have accessories rather than afterthoughts. Drawing from Biba’s eccentricity and Bauhaus’s clean geometry, her colorful, bold frames caught on quickly with London’s fashion set.
Modeling Roots: Stepping in Front of the Lens
Before eyewear, Linda dabbled in modeling, gracing campaigns and embodying the free-spirited vibe of the era. It wasn’t her main gig, but those early poses informed her design eye—understanding how frames could transform a face. Fast forward to 2025, and she’s modeling again for her Iconic Collection, looking effortlessly chic in her 80s. I once tried posing for a friend’s fashion shoot; it’s nerve-wracking, but Linda makes it seem like second nature, pairing her vintage Audemars Piguet watch with plum Dries Van Noten tops.
A Personal Touch in Styling
On set, Linda’s input shone through, suggesting terracotta Haider Ackermann pieces to complement camel-toned lenses. It’s emotional seeing her reclaim the spotlight—proof that style knows no age. Her son Simon noted how these shoots honor her while keeping things family-focused.
Building an Empire: Pioneering Collaborations
In the ’70s and ’80s, Linda blazed trails by designing eyewear for luxury houses like Yves Saint Laurent and Balenciaga—long before brand extensions were commonplace.
She recalls the dedication of those visionaries, saying circles were smaller, making impacts easier. Yoko Ono even wore her oversized rounds for her wedding to John Lennon. These partnerships turned sunglasses into status symbols, worn by everyone from celebs to jet-setters.
Key Milestones in Partnerships
Her work with Sonia Rykiel and Emilio Pucci pushed boundaries, blending functionality with high fashion. By the late ’80s, as big licensing groups took over, Linda stepped back to focus on family—a move that, in hindsight, preserved her brand’s authenticity.
Family Revival: Simon Jablon Takes the Reins
In 2003, Simon relaunched the brand after discovering those attic archives. Today, as creative director, he collaborates with modern talents like The Row and Jacquemus.
Linda beams with pride: “It’s nice to have the family business.” Their bond adds heart—think Halle Berry at Cannes in yellow tortoise frames from a Jacquemus capsule. Simon’s push for the Iconic Collection celebrates her while eyeing future generations, like his daughter Lila.
Balancing Heritage and Modernity
Reviving vintage designs in 22-carat gold-plated titanium keeps the brand fresh. It’s like that time I inherited my grandma’s jewelry and gave it a modern twist—timeless yet new.
The Iconic Collection: Honoring the Past
Launched in 2025, this limited-edition series reissues archival gems, starting with the Lila frame—an oversized rimless stunner from the early ’70s.
With beveled lenses in shades like sunset gradient, it’s a nod to Linda’s innovation. She and Simon sifted through hundreds to pick pieces that feel unique. Named after Simon’s daughter, it hints at legacy passing down.
Why It Resonates Today
In a fast-fashion world, these reissues remind us of quality craftsmanship. Linda’s early campaigns influenced pop culture, and now they’re back, blending nostalgia with luxury.
Looking Ahead: Innovation Meets Sustainability
For the future, Linda envisions merging heritage with modern needs—like sustainable materials and tech-infused lenses.
The brand continues collaborations, from Dries Van Noten to emerging artists. Simon emphasizes celebrating Linda’s legacy while pushing boundaries. With celebs like Dakota Johnson sporting amber aviators, the buzz is real.
Potential Third Generation
Little Lila might one day lead—talk about full circle. It’s inspiring; reminds me of family businesses I’ve seen thrive through passion.
Comparing Past and Present Collections
Here’s a table breaking down how Linda Farrow’s designs have evolved, blending vintage roots with contemporary twists.
| Era | Key Features | Materials | Notable Pieces | Celebrity Fans |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1970s Originals | Bold colors, geometric shapes, fashion-first approach | Acetate, stainless steel | Oversized rounds (Yoko Ono’s wedding pair) | Yoko Ono, London jet-setters |
| 2025 Revivals | Updated luxury, gradient lenses, limited editions | 22-carat gold-plated titanium | Lila frame in aqua or sunset | Halle Berry, Dakota Johnson |
This evolution shows timeless appeal while adapting to trends.
Pros and Cons of Investing in Linda Farrow Eyewear
Luxury shades like these aren’t impulse buys, so let’s weigh the ups and downs.
Pros:
- Unmatched quality: Handcrafted in Japan for durability and comfort.
- Versatility: Unisex designs suit any face shape or style.
- Investment value: Vintage pieces appreciate, like collector’s items.
- Celebrity cachet: Feel like a star with frames worn by icons.
Cons:
- High price point: Starting at $500, not budget-friendly.
- Limited availability: Sold-out collabs mean waiting lists.
- Maintenance needs: Precious metals require careful handling.
- Overwhelming choices: So many styles can make deciding tough.
From my thrifting adventures, the pros outweigh for pieces that last a lifetime.
People Also Ask: Common Queries About Linda Farrow
Drawing from popular Google searches, here are real questions and answers.
Who is Linda Farrow?
She’s the founder of the luxury eyewear brand launched in 1970, a pioneer who turned sunglasses into fashion statements.
What makes Linda Farrow sunglasses unique?
Their innovation, like colorful lenses in the ’70s, and collaborations with designers like Yves Saint Laurent set them apart.
Are Linda Farrow products unisex?
Yes, all are unisex, though some lean masculine (Black Series) or feminine, but wearable by anyone.
How did the brand revive?
Simon Jablon relaunched in 2003 after finding vintage archives, blending heritage with modern collabs.
Where to Get Linda Farrow: Navigational Guide
Head to the official site (lindafarrow.com) for the full range, including the Iconic Collection. For in-person, check Selfridges in London or Nordstrom in the US. Vintage hunters: Sites like Ruby Lane offer ’70s originals.
Best Tools for Styling Like Linda Farrow
For that retro-modern look, try the Virtual Try-On on lindafarrow.com—upload a photo to see frames on your face. Budget dupes: Amazon’s affordable aviators mimic her styles under $50. Care kit: Lens cleaners from Warby Parker keep gold-plated pieces pristine.
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
What inspired Linda Farrow to start her brand?
Spotting a lack of stylish options for young women in the ’70s, she innovated with colorful, fashion-forward designs.
How involved is Linda in the brand today?
At 80, she’s modeling for the Iconic Collection and collaborating with son Simon on reissues.
What are some famous collaborations?
Early ones include Balenciaga and Sonia Rykiel; modern hits feature The Row and Jacquemus.
Is Linda Farrow eyewear worth the investment?
Absolutely—for quality craftsmanship and timeless style that holds value over time.
How to care for Linda Farrow sunglasses?
Use microfiber cloths, store in cases, and avoid extreme heat to preserve gold plating and lenses.
Linda Farrow’s story is more than shades—it’s about vision, literally and figuratively. From her modeling roots to family-driven revival, she’s crafted a legacy that endures. I’ve worn knockoffs, but nothing beats the real deal’s feel. If you’re eyeing a pair, dive in; who knows, it might become your signature. (Word count: 2,612)