ic! berlin Unveils Its New Capsule Collection

The Values

The aesthetics of speed meet iconic design in the new Racing Edition by ic! berlin. With this special capsule, the Berlin-based maison revisits two standout pieces from its archive, the Ryan and Gabriel frames, reinterpreting them through a contemporary, sport-inspired lens and transforming them into a celebration of the world of motorsport.

The Collection

Among the key highlights is the new Pearl colorway of the Ryan model, paired with dark grey polarized lenses and red temple tips, creating a bold yet sophisticated aesthetic.

For the Gabriel model, ic! berlin introduces a Sky Grey acetate front, new Pearl metal temples, and red temple tips, a design choice that further reinforces the racing inspiration while enhancing the frame’s technical character.

The Packaging

Completing the capsule is a collectible packaging concept: a red case available in five different versions, each distinguished by a unique outer sleeve.

Four versions pay tribute to some of the most iconic stops on the calendar, Monza, Austin, Singapore, and Las Vegas, while the fifth draws inspiration from the universal imagery and spirit of motorsport competition.

How Eyewear Changed The World

From Stigma to Style Statement

By weaving together history, anecdotes, and stereotypes across the 750 years since their invention, David King Dunaway reminds us that, until the early twentieth century, wearing prescription glasses was often a source of social embarrassment, especially for women and children. It was only in the 1920s that things gradually began to change and eyewear became a mark of distinction. The appeal of figures such as Le Corbusier, Truman Capote, Gio Ponti, Max Ernst, and Paul Klee is inseparable from the shapes and colours of their frames, defined by an elegance that remains intact in eyewear inspired by the aesthetics of the 1930s.

The Role of Hollywood…

Cinema would do the rest, the author explains, turning styles such as the cat-eye frames worn by Marilyn Monroe and Lauren Bacall, Audrey Hepburn’s oversized wraparound silhouettes, and the aviator models featured in countless action films into true objects of desire. Eyewear became a way to express personality through shapes and designs that today continue to inspire reinterpretations by brands within the Marcolin portfolio.

…and the Influence of Music

From Swinging London, portrayed across the pages of leading fashion magazines through images of John Lennon’s round metal frames and the bold white eyewear worn by bands such as The Who, the journey continues through the experimentation of rock and punk groups. Later came global icons including Michael Jackson, Madonna, Bono, Kurt Cobain, and the Gallagher brothers. It marked the beginning of a new chapter, with eyewear emerging as a defining element of contemporary aesthetics, continuously reinterpreted and refreshed by brands. They are among the protagonists of a journey that, as David King Dunaway concludes, has never stopped evolving and is already looking toward a new era.

The First ic! berlin x Audi Revolut F1 Campaign Is Here

Precision and Speed

Premium design meets adrenaline. With the evocative tagline “From 0,5 mm to 300 km/h: engineering excellence and high-speed precision,” ic! berlin, the German eyewear brand of the Marcolin Group, launches its first major campaign alongside the Audi Revolut Formula 1 team. Taking center stage are drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, the faces and driving forces behind a partnership signed at the beginning of 2026. It brings together two worlds that may seem far apart, yet are united by the same passion for millimetric precision, focus, and innovation.

 

Glamorous Aesthetics

On one side, the featherlight feel and flexibility of ic! berlin frames, renowned for their iconic screwless hinge. On the other, the sharp lines, aerodynamics, and agility of the new Audi R26 race car. Bringing this combination to life through striking visual storytelling is Rupert Tapper, a leading name in international fashion and lifestyle photography. His images capture the physicality and intensity of the track, while the artistic direction of visionary creative Leif Podhajsky uses motion blur effects to translate the concept of acceleration into an aesthetic defined by glamorous elegance.

On The Grand Prix Circuit

Making its debut in recent days, the experience will extend far beyond imagery alone. Throughout the season, ic! berlin will be present in some of the most exclusive Grand Prix paddocks: from the historic curves of Monza to the glamorous lights of the Marina Bay street circuit in Singapore, and on to the unmistakable excitement of Austin. A perfect fusion of luxury elegance and racing spirit.

Yao Hongying

One of the most fascinating qualities of Suzhou embroidery is the shimmering brilliance of the silk threads it is made of. How do you bring light into your embroideries?

«The brilliance comes from the way the different silk threads are worked together: when thoughts flow freely and without interruption, the piece will naturally be filled with light. For us, the soul of Suzhou embroidery lies precisely in the flow and shifting reflections of light across the surface, resonating with the emotions of the person creating it. As the silk threads pass through the eye of the needle, their sheen subtly changes with every variation in angle and tension—at times soft as flowing water, at others radiant like clouds at sunset».

Do you believe that the theme of light creates a connection between your embroidery and the world of eyewear?

«The polishing of a frame’s finishes and the refraction of lenses transform a pair of glasses from a tool for seeing into an object to be admired. The interplay of light and shadow across the materials conveys emotion and personality. In a way, we are both exploring light, albeit through different means. When we were learning embroidery, our teacher gave us a very effective example: to depict a flower or a leaf, you must first understand its veins and structure. If you want to embroider a portrait, you must first grasp its essence and charm. You need to understand it and envision it. The same principle applies to eyewear design: it is not simply about helping people see well, but about creating an object that can be seen and appreciated by others».

Ultimately, what makes a silk embroidery truly unique?

«The fact that every thread embodies the embroiderer’s understanding of the subject and her reverence for beauty. Because what truly moves the heart is never light itself, but the unwavering emotion that gives it warmth».

FOREVER GUESS: Contemporary Glamour

The New Eyewear Campaign

Conceived by Nicolai Marciano, Chief New Business Development Officer at GUESS, the new FOREVER GUESS eyewear campaign is a cinematic narrative inspired by the glamorous world of 1990s soap operas. Dedicated to a multifaceted, sophisticated, and ever-evolving femininity, the campaign unfolds through polished atmospheres and an aesthetic reminiscent of high fashion. It celebrates the transformative power of GUESS style and the brand’s ability to interpret the codes of contemporary luxury.

Four Women, One Icon

At the heart of the campaign is Leni Klum, portraying four distinct personalities: from the modern socialite with magnetic appeal in The Gossip, wearing oversized frames embellished with the iconic G logo, to the seductive and confident Ex-Girlfriend, enhanced by oval silhouettes illuminated with rhinestones and jewelry-inspired details. Then comes The Genius, whose intelligent charm is reflected in angular eyewear featuring animal-print textures and metallic finishes, culminating in The Legend, a timeless icon. Her role is to blend nostalgia and modernity through a refined mix of retro-inspired shapes, animal motifs, and details that evoke the FOREVER GUESS universe.

A Statement Of Style

By intertwining fashion, design, and storytelling, the new FOREVER GUESS eyewear campaign reflects the maison’s international spirit and celebrates its ability to evolve while remaining true to its distinctive identity. FOREVER GUESS is an invitation to experience luxury as something deeply personal: not an exercise in excess, but a form of authentic self-expression. Moving beyond the traditional role of eyewear as a mere accessory, it transforms glasses into a powerful expression of personal identity.

Victoria Luengo

2026 marks a breakthrough year for you, with the release of two films presented at Cannes – “Amarga Navidad” directed by Pedro Almodóvar and “El ser querido” by Rodrigo Sorogoyen, alongside Javier Bardem – as well as your return to television with “Reina Roja 2”. Different stories, very distant characters: what path led you to become the versatile and successful actress you are today?

I think it has been a mix of many things: a lot of time spent in training, a great deal of respect for my craft, the opportunity to work non-stop, and being able to learn everything I have been able to learn by working. Also, the luck of having crossed paths with very talented people who have taught me a lot. And above all, the passion I feel for what I do, which makes me feel that I always have to look a little further because there are things I still don’t know how to do.

Between theatre, cinema, and TV: which future projects excite you the most? Do you feel you are entering a new phase?

I am excited about my next film, because it is my first time playing a lead role in French. The film is called Les Neiges de Grenade, and I really like the script. I also look forward to doing theater again. In February, I am premiering a new play that will be called Un drama romántico. I always miss the theater when I’m not doing it.

What is your current relationship with fashion? What do your choices say about you, especially when it comes to clothing and a specific accessory such as eyewear?

I believe fashion is a form of self-expression. I have learned to enjoy it so that I can feel like myself when I am on a red carpet. I find it very fun to create a narrative and look for options. I usually choose brands that represent who I am. I like an elegant, sober, and timeless style. That’s why I believe Max Mara eyewear define my image very well. They are also an accessory I wear every day and one that truly represents who I am.

The Shapes of Summer

Narrow And Wraparound

Balancing nostalgia and innovation, Summer 2026 marks the return of small, wraparound shapes inspired by the 1990s. These frames feature carefully proportioned silhouettes, often in total black, with a refined and understated elegance. Whether crafted in metal or acetate, with soft and updated curves, they are the perfect choice for those who prefer a more subtle and distinctive style over overt statement-making.

Oversized

Oversized shapes, including oversized pilot frames, take inspiration from the 1970s. Acetate frames in different shades of brown or classic tortoiseshell are proving especially popular in the most glamorous holiday destinations. These sculptural frames not only shield the eyes but also attract attention with their oversized gradient lenses, evoking the boho-chic style made famous by Jackie Kennedy Onassis.

Jewel-Like

Charms, pearls, twisted details, precious embellishments, crystals. Among this summer’s key trends are jewel-inspired frames, enriched with luxurious details that transform eyewear into a statement accessory full of personality. These are glasses for those who are not afraid to stand out, whether at a glamorous evening event or a poolside party. They are also the perfect way to add a touch of glamour to a more casual daytime look.

Marcolin Wave Cup

Unforgettable Moments

The first edition of the Marcolin Wave Cup – a five-a-side football and three-a-side beach volleyball tournament – kicked off the summer by bringing together as many as 10 teams. More than just a competition, it was an opportunity to reconnect, share moments of fun, and strengthen team spirit through enthusiasm and participation.This same spirit is at the heart of all initiatives promoted by the People Wavers: opportunities to meet, get to know one another better, build new connections, and contribute together to a dynamic, modern, and positive company culture.

Two Days Of Sport

From hard-fought matches played until the very last point to smiles and enthusiastic cheering, both Longarone and Milan showcased the most authentic values of sport. Team spirit, mutual respect, and the desire to share a unique experience took center stage, bringing people closer together and strengthening relationships beyond everyday roles and routines.

Competition and Fun

Match after match, this early-summer tournament also provided an informal setting to strengthen existing bonds and create new ones among colleagues outside the workplace.

The result was an extremely positive debut that successfully combined competition and fun. A first edition that has laid the foundations for a tradition that can only continue to grow and become an increasingly important part of the Marcolin community.

Giacomo Giorgio

At 28, you are one of the most followed Italian actors at the moment: where does your passion for acting come from, and how did you train?

«My passion for cinema was born when I was very young, in an old open-air cinema near my family’s seaside home, where I had the chance to watch many films and decided that this would be my profession. From then on, I started studying acting, and later I developed my own method».

In your work for film and television, you’ve played very different characters: how much of yourself is in each of them?

«I hope nothing—or, if there is, I hope it’s very well hidden, whatever part of my personality it may be. Each character, instead, has left me with many questions, and I hope I have managed to spark questions in the viewers of a film or a series as well».

In recent years, you’ve attended fashion shows and events of the biggest fashion houses: in your everyday life, how much attention do you pay to your look? And how important is an accessory like eyewear to you?

«I pay a lot of attention to my look because, even though clothes don’t make the man, I believe that feeling good in what you wear is important and can be a way to express yourself and to feel a certain way: I think the right outfit also gives you a certain posture, a way of walking. I also pay a lot of attention to accessories, especially sunglasses, which I consider a ‘friendly object’ that I wear every day, as they also act a bit like a shield».

Selima Salaun

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».