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A brand synonymous with innovation, MYKITA is committed to authenticity and heritage. Whether it is their signature CHILLED RAW collection or their signature ENDURA hinge design, MYKITA have found ways to push the boundaries of conventional eyewear in each of their designs. Handcrafted at MYKITA HAUS, the brand has full control over every pair to leave the building, ensuring unrivalled quality and attention to detail.
MYKITA have been challenging eyewear conventions since 2003. The idea that the industry had often prioritised mass production over innovation was something that Moritz Krüger and Philipp E. H. M. T. Maier made their mission to change. Their Berlin roots shine through in each and every collection, combining industrial ruggedness and artistic genius. German innovation and engineering is prevalent amongst many of the top manufacturing industries, from automobiles to machinery, and the Berlin based brand are making sure the same is true for eyewear. Both founders are from creative backgrounds, and their love of art and fashion are prevalent in their designs.
2003 – Mykita was born in the heart of Berlin, with the aim of creating truly innovative yet functional pieces, using artisanal craftsmanship and true attention to detail in each design. The name inspired by the building where the brand began, a former day-care centre; ‘Kita’ is an abbreviation of ‘Kindertagesstätte’.
2004 – Mykita opened their first workshop located in their hometown Berlin. They homed in on handcrafting, assembling each in-house. This was MYKITA’s way of guaranteeing the utmost quality and a personalised touch to their customers. The hands-on approach gave them full control over every material step of the design and manufacturing process, and therefore the freedom to create a truly unique set of frames. This part of the brands history was key in building MYKITA’s reputation for craftsmanship and quality.
2006 – after spending the past year showcasing their designs at trade shows and fashion events, MYKITA decides it was time to launch their debut collection ‘Collection No. 1’. Incorporating a variety of shapes and designs, the brand primarily focussed on stainless steel builds, embodying Berlin’s industrial heritage and cementing the brands minimalist aesthetic. Bending and folding stainless steel sheets into a 3D structure, the manufacturing process was similar to that of Japanese art style Origami. Their first collection was an instant hit, capturing the attention of retailers through sheer excellence.
In 2007, just four years after opening, MYKITA began to expand worldwide, becoming prevalent across Europe and even select markets in North America and Asia. At this point luxury boutiques were seeking to stock MYKITA, due to their reputation and their core clientele.
2010 – True innovation. MYKITA developed their own material ‘MYLON’. A 3D printed metal made through selective laser sintering; it boasted unprecedented flexibility and strength, that of a nylon material. 3D printing had never been used in the eyewear industry until this point, showcasing MYKITA’s commitment to artistry. At this point the brand released their first activewear range, focussing even further on functionality and opening them up to a whole new market.
2011- MYKITA Haus (pictured), as it is known today opened its doors. The hub of the brand is centre to their headquarters, workshop and research & development centre. By operating under one roof, this allowed each department to work as one, increasing the synergy of the brand: key in collaboration and innovation. ‘Manufactured in Berlin’ has become a significant pillar of the brand identity, supporting local talent and the economy.
From 2012-2013 MYKITA explored the possibilities of collaborations. Working with Bernhard Willhelm and later Maison Margiela, they created limited edition lines, each boasting a more avant-garde, playful approach than their usual minimalist approach. A total luxury brand, MYKITA positioned themselves towards celebrity and magazine style with these collaborations, showcasing the versatility and depth of their team and vision.
Flagship stores are a key part of any luxury brands journey, and in 2014 MYKITA opened theirs in Paris, New York, Tokyo (pictured) among other fashion capitals of the world. Each store location personified the brands commitment to individualism; with personalisation, frame fitting and consultations as part of the customer journey. Gallery-like spaces are a direct link to the brands core values, inferring that each frame is a true work of art.
2015-2017 – Process innovation. The aforementioned MYLON material was at the forefront of MYKITA’s next collection. These high-performance frames brought luxury to an athletic lifestyle, with functionality as well as genuine artistry. MYKITA then turned to sustainability objectives, developing their production processes even further. Reducing waste incorporating more sustainable materials are examples of the dedication to innovation which has helped MYKITA stay at the forefront of luxury eyewear since their inception.
2018-2020 – The change in consumer behaviour encouraged MYKITA to lean towards the digital market and build relationships with online retailers. Only stocking on luxury sites, MYKITA have reserved their luxury status, while reaching customers globally.
2023: To celebrate their 20th anniversary, MYKITA released a series of anniversary collections, including reimaginations of their most iconic frames, wih modern twists.
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Each product includes the latest official packaging, such as a branded case or pouch, and is covered by a full manufacturer's warranty against product defects.
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