Defying fashion conventions and proving her creativity prowess once again, Karen Walker’s latest sunglasses collection, Monumental x Marlon Williams, sees the couture queen teaming up with local muso Marlon Williams in a boundary-pushing collaboration. Taking inspiration from compelling outsiders who captivated the world with their rebel tendencies such as Steve McQueen, Sidney Poitier and Allen Ginsberg, the seven Monumental styles are “an homage to iconoclastic men who possess a transcendent rock ‘n’ roll energy that somehow makes the very atmosphere around them electric”.

As well as taking its creative cue from the mentioned men, an exploration of looks that span several eras including the 50s and 70s is also incorporated into the design and execution of these styles – exaggerated size and contrast were contributing design specs. A firm favourite of Walker’s for many years thanks to his poetic lyrics and rebellious approach to music, it was only natural that the New Zealand-born muso serve as muse for the collection.

Speaking on the collaboration, Walker says, “I’ve always talked about having an eyewear wardrobe that works for different moments and moods and Marlon just wore the hell out of every single pair … he’s got that innate ability to be bold and subversive but remain classic and eternal at the same time.” Shop the Monumental x Marlon Williams collection at select boutiques, department stores, eyewear specialists and all Karen Walker stores.

karenwalker.com