We recently caught up with eyewear designer and collector Vidal Erkohen on his trendy label RVS for a chat about the inspiration behind his unique designs as well as his favorite pieces. We’ve got these on our Christmas must-have list!
Q
What is the inspiration behind the RVS brand?
A
RVS was created with the goal of bringing back the originality and quality that was put into eyewear of the past. In an age where most eyewear looks alike and quality is usually the last priority, we strive to make each RVS user connect with the product they buy on a personal level.
Q
What fashion influences does RVS draw from?
A
I emphasize a lot on colors and color combinations, which we are mainly influenced by my surroundings, travels and the nature of the different places I see. I would also say designs from the past both in eyewear and fashion in general are a big influence in my designs as well as overall feel for the product.
Q
What is your favorite design from all the ones you’ve created?
A
I would have to say our Palladium 001 model first introduced in 2010 would be one of my personal favorites, due to the barriers it broke at that time because of its unusual shape. I do also have a soft spot for our latest models “flat line” and “Paris”.
Q
As a collector, which piece is the one you cherish most?
A
Since I have a very vast vintage eyewear collection, I do have many pieces from different brands of the past. Amongst these I would have to say my most prize pieces are my 1950s folding Persol 714 (as worn by Steve McQueen) and my vintage genuine tortoise shell frames, all made in hand from the early 40s before the process was banned.
Q
What celebrities would you love to see wearing your designs?
A
We have been fortunate enough to see our eyewear on many celebrities such as Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Jay Z and many others, however I must say I have a special place in my heart for Jack Nicholson and would absolutely love to see a pair grace his face.
Q
What are the next steps for the label?
A
With our newly opened head quarters in NYC, we are planning a vast growth in the American market as well as selective distribution worldwide. Of course as always we are hoping to continue breaking the boundaries and creating many more designs that push the limits of people’s imagination.
Q
Can our Dubai readers hope for an RVS store in the Emirates?
A
We are first planning an organic growth with some of the premiere locations in the region and are already very happy with the attention we are receiving. I can definitely say that the best is yet to come from this point on.
