In conversation with SELIMA SALAUN
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Selima Salaun
A pioneer in the luxury eyewear sector, Selima Salaun has been one of the most respected figures in eyewear and fashion for over thirty years. Founder of Selima Optique, we meet her in her SoHo boutique, a go-to destination for celebrities and creatives seeking unique, characterful frames, on the occasion of National Sunglasses Day 2026.
Throughout your career, you’ve seen eyewear evolve from a purely functional accessory into a true style statement. Why do you think glasses occupy such a unique place in personal style today?
«I’ve always believed that eyewear is the most important accessory and I think that, in recent years, people are really starting to embrace that. It’s fascinating because glasses were originally purely utilitarian, from 12th century Chinese judges concealing their expressions and 13th century Italian monks magnifying small text, all the way to modern eyewear’s miracles of vision correction and UV protection. But, while born of utility, eyewear has gradually found its place in fashion as well, which makes perfect sense because, as I always say: It’s the first thing you see. When you meet someone, you look at their eyes and face first, so, of course, eyewear should be the most important part of any outfit. I compare eyewear’s evolution to handbags—accessories rooted in functionality that, as design and quality improved, grew into elements of luxury and style. I’m so excited to see that evolution and feel that glasses and sunglasses are truly ascending as focal points in fashion».
Your boutiques have become known for their highly selective approach to eyewear. When you and your team select a frame or discover new designers, what catches your attention and what sets great eyewear design apart from the rest?
«Honestly, what really captures my attention and separates great from good eyewear design is the same as it’s always been: shape and proportion. A (tongue-in-cheek) slogan for us recently has been that “sometimes, size matters” and…it’s just so true. Just like faces can be similar, but so different; eyewear can be similar, but so different, because, ultimately, every millimeter and degree of angle makes such a difference. I think it’s why so much vintage eyewear still feels so relevant today: Good design is essentially about shape and size that complement and elevate your features. So, as it’s always been, that’s what catches my attention first and then I dive into the technical quality and craftsmanship».
National Sunglasses Day celebrates both style and eye protection. What advice do you always give customers when it comes to sunglasses, also considering eye health?
«I always say that if you’re going to invest in anything, it should be what you wear on your face. From a technical perspective, the face and eyes are among the most sensitive and delicate features of our body, so why wouldn’t you invest in proper quality? From a design perspective, the eyes are your first feature that people notice, so why wouldn’t you invest in eyewear that fits and elevates your features and personal style? I truly believe that if there’s any item to invest in, it’s your eyewear».
