A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Shade Station Summer Photoshoot!
Here at Shade Station, we’re already preparing for the summer season and recently held an exciting photoshoot showcasing an array of some of the hottest sunglasses and watches that are either available to buy now or will be in stock over the next month. The photos will be up on the site soon, but we thought we’d show you a sneak peek at some of the images and the designs to look forward to this summer!
We had two models who did a superb job of making our sunglasses and watches look effortlessly stylish! First we had Marcus, who aside from being a model is also in the band The Council, and Erica who beautifully modelled a wide selection of looks ranging from Hollywood glamour inspired to boho chic.
The brands appearing in the shoot included Ray-Ban, Tom Ford, Prada, Gucci, Adidas, Diesel, DKNY and Chanel to name only a few and the creative themes we selected were perfect to represent a cool and laid-back summer vibe!
The key sunglass styles to look out for this season definitely include oversized designs (for both men and women) as seen within the Tom Ford, BVLGARI, Dior and Oliver Peoples collections, sporty, as demonstrated in the Carrera, Dragon and Oakley ranges and colourful and retro – including Ray-Ban, Jee Vice, Pucci and Marc by Marc Jacobs. For watches, you still can’t go wrong with glitzy and glamorous using Guess watches and Juicy Couture watches as the perfect 
examples, and also for the ladies, androgynous watches are a hot look, as seen in the collection of Fossil watches.
You’ll definitely be able to get a feel for the looks and trends when the pictures go live on our site but meanwhile, we hope you enjoy this exclusive behind-the-scenes peek at what’s to come this summer!
Timeless Tom Ford
Brad Pitt in Tom Ford Sunglasses
Since leaving his much celebrated position as head of fashion house Gucci, Tom Ford has continued on his ascent to artistic greatness, firstly at the helm of his own Tom Ford label, and also as a lauded film director.
This connection between cutting-edge fashion and the silver screen is reflected in the sunglasses tastes of Tinseltown’s elite. From Sunset to Santa Monica, Tom Ford sunglasses have been a staple accessory in recent years, whether they’re the elegant criss-crossed silhouette models or the classic, bold-framed shades with the distinguished ‘T’ brand inlaid in the temples of the frames.
Tom Ford sunglasses are a favourite of Brad and Angelina, who are both regularly spotted, on and off screen, bearing an array of Tom’s best creations.
We all know that Brad looks good in almost everything he wears, but there’s no denying how effortlessly cool he is stepping out in this pair of Bailey Tom Ford sunglasses. The strong frame of ‘T’ branded range have been compared with the classic Wayfarer form, made famous by Ray-Ban, however, the smoother lines and finessed engineering of the Tom Ford sunglasses frames explain why they stand out as the brand of choice for the more discerning celebrity.
Other big names fashionably shielding themselves from the bright Californian sunshine in Tom Ford sunglasses include Lindsay Lohan, often snapped wearing the modest Conor or Arnaud models, and Halle Berry, recently seen showing-off the bold Bianca style.
Tom Ford sunglasses hark back to the elegant, simple styles of the 1950s. While this style is particularly popular right now, his designs embody an unmistakable, classic quality, that truly make Tom Ford sunglasses timeless.
Whether you should find yourself under the glare of the sun or the lights of the red carpet, Tom Ford sunglasses have obtained a well-deserved position as one of the most desirable, luxury brands for any occasion.
Tom Ford Sunglasses – Sophisticated & Luxurious Style at its Best!
Tom Ford Sunglasses – Sophisticated & Luxurious Style at its Best!
Tom Ford sunglasses are one of the most stylishly superior in the eyewear and fashion industry. Created for men and women who appreciate the sense of bold, luxurious and unique design, the sunglasses remain sophisticated and chic whilst also being statement enough to allow the wearer to convey their own personality and stand out in the crowd.
Fashion is of course, ever evolving and whilst there will always be an ‘it’ style of accessory, be it a handbag, watch or a particular pair of sunglasses, the majority of people want an item that serves longevity and won’t be considered a ‘not’ accessory in six month’s time. When people invest in a pair of sunglasses they want something that is unique to them and would probably prefer to be the only person wearing them as opposed to wearing the same style as every other person just for the sake of that design being ‘in fashion’. This is where Tom Ford shines as a designer – his creations are instantly recognisable with the use of innovative and bold shapes, colour tones and expressive styles which has mad
e the Tom Ford brand and thus his collection of sunglasses, a timeless trend all of their own. Tom Ford is synonymous with sophistication and the range of Tom Ford sunglasses perfectly captures this style trait.
There are a couple of new styles for summer in the Tom Ford sunglasses collection; the first of which is the slick and streamlined Marco sunglasses. A simple aviator design that looks equally great on men and women, these sunglasses feature a pale gold slim frame, black ear socks and graduated olive lenses. The use of soft colours adds to the versatility of this style – aviators are one of the most popular styles of sunglasses around and never fail to look incredibly stylish with literally any outfit. The Tom Ford Marco design is ultra sleek and will look equally as good in five years time as it does today.
A further new addition to the collection is one for the ladies; the Callae Tom Ford sunglasses. Again, the detailing is minimal but the design is striking and statement with a thick brown frame with rounded edges and brown arms which curve at the ear stems. This style is oversized with the graduated brown lenses more of an egg-shape than fully rounded. The perfec
t pair of sunglasses for achieving effortless glamour that is striking without looking too overstated.
An example of Tom Ford at his most bold and creative is demonstrated in the Nico sunglasses (as seen in the main image). Not for the shy girls, these shades show you mean business, portray a confident sense of style and that you are more likely a fashion innovator than a follower! With a thick, defined and almost triangular frame that boasts sharp angles, the Nico sunglasses have a futuristic appeal and due to their distinctive aesthetic, will continue to look amazing season after season.
As Tom Ford is such a highly skilled and creative designer and is also a strong and vibrant personality who is very much the ‘face’ of his brand, a huge number of celebrities are fans of the brand and are often spotted wearing his sunglasses. Audrina Partridge, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Kate Moss and Denise Richards are just a handful of stylish individuals who are regularly papped wearing a pair with actress and singer Demi Lovato also loving the bold Nico frames! All Tom Ford sunglasses are hand crafted in Italy and ensure superb quality along with a stunning style that represents elegance, charisma and an assured and confident approach to fashion.
Hot For Summer: Tom Ford Sunglasses
Tom Ford Sunglasses
Whilst Tom Ford has been enjoying his time in the movie directing spotlight, following the success of his recent film ‘A Single Man’, luckily he is still also wooing us with his incredible fashion design masterpieces. With hints of spring and summer finally upon us, it looks like it could well be time to accessorise your summer look with a pair of stunning sunglasses and Tom Ford has introduced some beautiful styles into his range. Think glamorous, dramatic, elegant and timelessly stylish!
The Tom Ford sunglasses collection boasts contemporary designs but ones that take inspiration from vintage styles. Distinctive shapes, strong lines and definition are common themes and the detailing involved in many of the styles is typical of Ford’s exquisite taste and approach to fashion. The creative flair demonstrated in the sunglasses is the perfect way to convey your personality in addition of course, to a fine sense of style! The sunglasses are high fashion orientated but still practical and with Ford’s use of only the finest choice of high quality materials, they are sure to be an accessory staple for 
seasons to come.
The first style to mention which immediately jumps out as being a unique and striking choice are the Nico womens sunglasses. A creative take on the oversized look, this style is designed in a way that the frame is exaggerated with sharp angles and shaped like a triangle – these are definitely ones to go for if you are seeking ultimate dramatic glamour!
The Clemence oversized ladies sunglasses are a little more subtle in style but still boast fine detailing and convey a demure and ultra feminine look. With slimmer oval shaped graduated brown lenses and a thick silver wire frame that extends away from the lenses (a big current key trend for sunglasses), the ivory toned arms add a soft and elegant feel to the sunglasses (other colours are available also).
The new Cary sunglasses are similar to the Wayfarer in style but with thicker frames and wider arms in a dark tortoiseshell tones, Tom Ford has put his unique stamp on this style. Perfect for everyday laid back-chic with high trend appeal!
The new Georgette and Peter sunglasses are definitely worth a mention and are again a great example of Ford’s fine attention to detail. Both oversized unisex styles, the oval frames feature a figure of eight design crossing over at the nose bridge and also incorporate an added top bar. These sunglasses are casual and great for everyday use but still have that distinct element of Tom Ford glamour.
The Tom Ford sunglasses collection really captures all high fashion elements and key trends but still remain unique, making them 
distinctive and highly sought after in the fashion industry. If you like your sunglasses to reveal something about your personality, this is the ideal designer brand to choose but the collection at the same time, caters for a range of styles which suit a variety of face shapes. With statement and unusual designs as well as more understated styles in the offering, this collection allows you to be expressive or demure as you wish. A hot celebrity favourite with fans including Gwen Stefani, Angelina Jolie, Kate Hudson and Brad Pitt to name only a few, you know that you are channeling true A List style in a pair of Tom Ford sunglasses!
Tom Ford- Fashioning a new direction
Internationally successful designers are few and far between and even rarer, are designers that venture into filmmaking. Tom Ford is one such designer. At the helm of Gucci from the mid Nineties until 2004, Ford was credited with turning the ailing fashion house into the monster it is today. After parting ways with Gucci, Ford set up his own company ‘Tom Ford’ and began his business designing fabulous sunglasses and eyewear.
Today Ford is one of the worlds most successful and revered designers, however his creative genius has found another outlet in the form of film directing. Ford’s directing debut, ‘A Single Man’, has earnt its lead character, Colin Firth, a ‘Best Actor’ nomination in this year’s Oscars (The 82nd Academy Awards)! Could this be a new career direction for Mr Ford? It seems Tom Ford has the Midas touch. Already popular with the Hollywood A-list, for his beautifully designed clothes and glamorous sunglasses, they’ll all be clamouring for a role in his next movie!
As well as catching Ford’s debut movie at the cinema this spring, get in on a piece of the action with his popular range of Tom Ford sunglasses. Worn by the likes of Angelina Jolie (who was responsible for the popularity of the ‘Whitney’ crossover style sunglasses), J-Lo and Sienna Miller, Tom Ford sunglasses are some of the most fashionable sunglasses worn by celebrities. Ford’s collection of sunglasses is thoughtful and extensive, with styles to suit all face shapes and tastes. Aviator, vintage and oversized frames are all found in the range and anyone looking to enter the spring season looking stylish and on trend should look to Mr Ford for inspiration.
The Latest News From Gucci
For those of you who are fans of the reality TV show The City which follows the life of fashion industry worker and designer Whitney Port, who first found fame during The Hills, you will most likely recognise model Adam Senn who is the on/off boyfriend of Whitney’s also model friend Allie.
Adam is most renowend for his appearance in the iconic luxury brand Gucci’s advertising campaign and now has his eye set on Hollywood actress and notorious party girl Lindsay Lohan. The two met whilst Lindsay was in New York for Fashion Week and they apparently hit it off and have been spotted with one another a number of times since. The According to an insider, the two first met while LiLo was in New York for Fashion Week.
Adam was catapulted into the model spotlight, following his appearance in the rather controversial Gucci advertising campaign in 2003, which was shot by legendary photographer Mario Testino and is one of the main fashion campaigns that people always remember!
Guccio Gucci founded the House of Gucci in Florence in 1906 and his primary skill and creative talent was in the design and manufacturing of leather goods. He started out selling leather bags to horsemen in the 1920’s and progressed to deigning luxury luggage as his clients tended to move from equine transportation to horseless carriages. In 1938 Guccio Gucci opened their first retail shop on the Via Condotti in Rome and the brand became very successful and associated with Hollywood stars such as Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly following further store openings in Beverly Hills, Paris and Tokyo. It was in 1947 that the iconic leather handbag with a bamboo handle was launched which is still an incredibly popular Gucci product today. In the 1990’s, Tom Ford was responsible for escalating the brand back to its rightful sought after and exclusive status following it being sold in the 1980’s. Ford extended the product lines and since Frida Giannini’s arrival as Creative Director of Gucci in 2006, the brand range now includes a spectacularly stylish collection of leather accessories, perfumes, colognes, cosmetics, shoes and Gucci sunglasses. Gucci today is still one of the all time classic brands, whose products maintain that highly desired and exclusive appeal. It is often thought that if you own a piece of Gucci clothing or a Gucci accessory that certainly makes a statement about your style and status.
The latest news fr
om Gucci is the announcement that in 2010 Gucci and luxury auction company Christie’s are collaborating to launch the ‘Gucci Collector: Presented by Christie’s’ which is the first online location for the appraisal of Gucci products whereby Gucci collectors can upload their vintage Gucci products and a team of Christie’s and Gucci experts will assess the value of the item. The owner will then have the option to sell the item back to Gucci or to list it at a future Christie’s auction.
The collection of Gucci sunglasses are the perfect representation of the luxurious essence of the brand – with stunningly dramatic frames and the use of bold yet elegant colours and patterns and added aesthetic features such as arm hinge buckle and Gucci logo detailing, a pair of these sunglasses will definitely assert your exquisite and refined taste in fashion. The perfect way to add that elite and much desired Gucci style to your look.
Tom Ford Turns Director in ‘A Single Man’
Tom Ford is a certainly a prominent name in the Fashion industry and before pursuing his own line, the designer was Creative Director of luxury Italian brand Gucci whereby he was responsible for putting the label back on the high fashion map after the company was close to bankruptcy. He then started a couture label of his own which includes the fantastically stylish collection of Tom Ford sunglasses.
Ford also likes to use his creative mind within his advertising campaigns which are notorious for their risqué and provocative nature, often using erotic imagery and nudity in order to create a buzz about his collections, accessories and fragrances.
However, Tom Ford this year decided that he wanted to channel his creative eye into the world of movies and as a previous actor and model himself, he certainly has experience in the movie industry. His new film which is entitled ‘A Single Man’ tells the story of a gay literature professor, played by British actor Colin Firth in 1962 in Los Angeles who is struggling to come to terms with the death of his lover in a society that is very much against gay relationships or more so, pretends that homosexuality doesn’t exist. Based on the book by Christopher Isherwood, the movie has received positive reviews claiming that the portrayal of the story has been directed by Ford in a sensitive and eloquent manner. The film is said not to be one that is based around homosexuality, but more about dealing with loss; a feeling and emotion that many people can relate to regardless of their sexuality. The glamorous scree
nings of ‘A Single Man’ have taken place this month and will hit the UK silver screens at the end of January 2010. The film is even rumoured to be on its way to earning a Golden Globe.
It definitely seems that there is no end to Ford’s talents and whilst he is keen to continue his work in the film industry, he is still a very prominent figure within the fashion world and is definitely going to continue designing. He actually claimed in a recent interview that the objective of both film and fashion is to inspire people and considers them to be very similar.
The collections of Tom Ford sunglasses are bold, sophisticated, beautiful and dramatic which is very much the essence of the Tom Ford style in general. With a range of oversized designs with retro inspired figure of eight slim style frames in addition to some highly stylish aviator sunglasses (including the legendary James Bond sunglasses!), these designs really give you that high fashion, polished look that will instantly make you look like the ultimate glamazon!
Tom Ford Sunglasses – Become a Style Queen This Season
Tom Ford is an iconic figure in the fashion industry and noted primarily for being the man responsible for turning Gucci which was on the edge of becoming bankrupt into a multi-billion dollar fashion house through the reinvention of its brand image including intelligent strategic marketing and a new bold and chic design. After leaving YSL in 2005 (Gucci had bought a controlling stake in Yves Saint Laurent and Ford was appointed creative director), Tom Ford and his partner Domenico de Sole founded ‘Tom Ford’ which was a new company that produces luxury high end and uber fashionable sunglasses.
If you are a fashion and style conscious individual, a pair of Tom Ford sunglasses should be one of your handbag essentials and can transform your on-the-go look in an instant. They have very much come to the forefront in 2009 and are set to be equally successful and prominent in 2010. People love the luxurious and ultra sophisticated essence 
of Tom Ford sunglasses with their typically glamorous oversized aesthetic and are regularly spotted on high profile celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt and Lindsay Lohan (pictured above wearing the Margaux Tom Ford sunglasses).
This season is all about being bold with strong silhouettes, colour and sharp chic lines. Tom Ford sunglasses perfectly compliment this with bold styles which are typically and dramatically oversized. If you want your look to be overstated yet chic, this is definitely the brand to opt for. The fun element of Tom Ford sunglasses is that each pair has a name to represent the style.
Here are some of the key Tom Ford styles to look out for-:
James Bond Exclusive-: As the name suggests, this is the cool aviator style that Daniel Craig in his portrayal of 007 in the James Bond film Quantum of Solace. Tom Ford was specifically asked to design the frames to perfectly suit the legendary and super charming and charismatic James Bond character!
Anais: A perfect contemporary frame for ladies that features dramatically oversized frames with a square shaped finish. This look is very much on trend for autumn and winter.
Whitney: A popular among celebrities such as the Olsen twins and Angelina Jolie, these sunglasses are very representative of the ‘bug eye’ look. A truly dramatic and glamorous frame with figure of eight style oval frames with bamboo style arms and a thick rounded frame, the
se are a must for every fashionista!
Andres: The Andres Tom Ford sunglasses are a unisex style and one of the sportier versions within the collection. Featuring large square shaped frames with rounded edges; this style is certainly unique with a hint of retro appeal.
Lilliana-: Tom Ford Lilliana sunglasses are largely popular as they depict the essence of drama, sophistication and class. The off white versions with subtle pink lenses are also a beautiful and unique colour combination and very complimentary against paler skins and blondes.
Tom Ford sunglasses represent an ultra high end and luxurious appeal and with their bold yet sophisticated features they are designed to make a statement about your look. No matter what your outfit, with the simple addition of a pair of Tom Ford’s you will instantly add a high fashion, couture edge to your look and feel feminine and glamorous. With a wide array of colours available including, black and brown tones as well as lighter, muted and neutral tones, you are certain to find a pair of sunglasses within the range that compliment your skin tone and hair colour. The man who put Gucci firmly back on the map has definitely injected his own unique and high end style into his range of Tom Ford sunglasses making you look and feel every inch the Style Queen (or King!) this season.
Celebrity Sunglasses at Cannes 2009!
If you’re celebrity savvy like us you will have been watching all the action at the recent 2009 Cannes Film Festival with interest. The stars, the dresses, the parties and the gossip kept us entertained for at least a week!
Angelina and Brad put on a show of togetherness in answer to reports of an imminent split. Penelope Cruz braved the festival whilst suffering with flu. Twilight’s Robert Pattinson’s non-stop partying was widely reported. Surprise at the pairing of Hero’s Hayden Panettiere and T4’s Steve Jones, seen canoodling onboard David Furnish’s yacht for the duration of the festival. Paris Hilton and her beau Doug Reinhart courting the paps as usual and Mariah Carey promoting her new film ‘Precious’. As well as 2 films depicting the life of Mademoiselle Chanel and an appearance from Chanel‘s Creative Director, the unflappable Karl Lagerfeld, made for an exciting festival.
The French Riviera was awash with Hollywood Glitterati and the sun shone brightly, so unsurprisingly we were treated to a role call of the latest, most fashionable designer sunglasses as modelled by the A-Listers.
Police sunglasses were a popular choice amongst the men, with director Quentin Tarantino, rapper Neyo and the newly reformed Spandau Ballet all sporting various cool looking styles. Brad Pitt took to the Red Carpet for his movie ‘Inglourious Basterds’ wearing top to toe Tom Ford including a sharp looking pair of Tom Ford style aviators. Both Robert Pattinson and Orlando Bloom flew the flag for Ray Ban, with the Twilight star rocking some Ray Ban Clubmasters and Bloom wearing nothing but swimming shorts and a pair of Ray Ban Wayfarers.
German born Diane Kruger is rarely seen without her Ray Ban Wayfarers and Cannes was no exception this year. Eva Longoria turned up the heat with a sizzling pair of large red Gina sunglasses by Louis Vuitton accompanied by her husband, basketball player Tony Parker. Red head Julianne Moore was pictured wearing a stunning pair of oversized black Gucci sunglasses and singer Mariah Carey chose a fabulous pair of Roberto Cavalli sunglasses for her photo call. Closing this year’s festival was Chanel muse and actress Anna Mouglalis with her film ‘Coco Chanel & Igor Strvinsky’ wearing… Chanel sunglasses – bien sur!
See in Summer 2009 with Tom Ford
Fashion trends come and go but there are certain accessory staples that will always be on trend. Sunglasses are one of them and even overtook the popularity of the bag in 2008. Every guy and girl need an ultra cool pair of shades to see in the spring and summer months and with London Fashion Week fast approaching, we are certain to see some stylish frames adorning the faces of the fashionistas to hide those late night party eyes.
Tom Ford sunglasses are sure to be one of those brands that we see in between (and probably during) the shows and are the perfect accessory to complete your wardrobe this summer. Glamorous, chic, and statement style is what Tom Ford is all about and a pair of his frames will ensure that you get noticed. Not only stylish but equally as functional, all Tom Ford sunglasses are hand crafted in Italy with exceptional attention to detail.
So what exactly is it that makes this brand so desired? Quite possibly the fact that every fashion loving celebrity owns a pair, of course! The various shapes available, particularly the oversized range, exuberate sophistication and drama and will instantly transform your dressed down jeans and t-shirt into an A list look. The famous ‘Whitney’ style has been updated for 2009 into a range of other female name inspired versions, including the ‘Simone’ style; a gorgeous black vintage style frame with bamboo effect arms. The
‘Yvette’ style with a gold frame and pearlised cream arms is definitely a personal favourite and epitomises the definition of glamour. Of course, there is something for the men too, and the Tom Ford James Bond range as seen on Daniel Craig in the most recent film ‘Quantum of Solace’ definitely give that sleek 007 vibe to your look!
Other celebrities who favour Tom Ford sunglasses include our very own Colleen Rooney, Paris and Nicky Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt. Tom Ford is absolutely one of the must have sunglasses brands this season and the great thing about his styles are that they never go out of fashion and will see you through many summers (and late night parties!) ahead.