Gentle Monster, a South Korean eyewear brand, has quickly gained worldwide recognition for its innovative designs and distinctive visual identity. This review will thoroughly examine the brand, its products, and whether it’s worth exploring. The tone will be informative, engaging, and approachable. Let’s begin our exploration of the captivating world of Gentle Monster and uncover its secrets.
A Brief History of Gentle Monster
Founded in 2011 by Hankook Kim, Gentle Monster has quickly gained a reputation for its modish designs that combine modern classic aesthetics with retro-futuristic elements. The brand’s success can be attributed to its distinctive approach to eyewear, blending timeless silhouettes with a unique spunk that sets it apart from other optical wear players in the market.
Celebrity Endorsements and Collaborations
Gentle Monster’s rise to fame has been further fueled by high-profile collaborations and endorsements, including those from South Korean stars such as Son Ye Jin and Jennie Kim of BLACKPINK. The brand’s appeal extends beyond the South Korean market and has even attracted international celebrities like Tilda Swinton, who appeared in a metaphor-driven short film for the brand in 2017.
The Gentle Monster Brand Identity
One of the most striking aspects of Gentle Monster is its highly conceptual brand identity, which is built around theatrics and otherworldly visuals. For example, the brand’s Instagram page has dizzying layouts featuring peculiar imagery ranging from baroque to futuristic to alien. This unique visual identity invites a new way of seeing, making Gentle Monster stand out.
Store Design and Art Installations
The brand’s approach to retail is no less innovative, with its flagship stores resembling art installations more than traditional eyewear shops. These immersive spaces blur the line between art and commerce, treating the products as components of interactive artwork. This fusion of art and retail has helped establish Gentle Monster as a trailblazer in the eyewear industry.
Product Quality and Manufacturing
Gentle Monster’s metal frames are made in Korea, while the acetate frames are carefully crafted in China. The brand offers decorative sunglasses and prescription glasses frames, ensuring every customer can find the perfect pair to suit their needs. Focusing on high-quality materials and craftsmanship makes Gentle Monster a reliable choice for investing in impactful eyewear.
A Wide Range of Designs and Styles
From Anna Wintour-esque sunglasses to experimental frames made of mock pencils and matches, Gentle Monster offers a diverse selection of eyewear to cater to different tastes and preferences. The brand’s designs are known for their timeless appeal but with an added twist that sets them apart from conventional eyewear options.
The Best Gentle Monster Glasses
For those looking to invest in Gentle Monster eyewear, here are five top picks from the brand, ranging from tinted glasses to subtle statement frames and lenses:
Reme 032(B)
The Reme features thin, gold rims in a squarish shape and light cyan-tinted lenses that evoke the surface of a swimming pool. This pair is perfect for summer and offers a statement look without being overly bulky or gaudy. The design is also available in various tints, including rose, light grey, and dark grey.
Linda YC2
With citrus colours being on-trend, the Linda YC2 is a bright piece that can elevate even the plainest outfit. The vibrant yellow frame will make you stand out in the best possible way. The Linda is also available in hazel, watermelon, and black.
Koki BC1
The Koki is a two-tone cat-eye frame that channels the glamour of 90s runway models. Sleek, moody, and fun all at once, this design also comes in a banana-yellow and brown duo.
Her 01
Arguably one of Gentle Monster’s most popular designs, the Her 01 gained fame after appearing in K-dramas and being spotted by numerous local celebrities. The black oversized sunglasses are a fashion staple and a crowd favourite, making them a must-have item for any eyewear enthusiast.
Solbei BRC2
The nude Solbei BRC2 is a barely-there pair that is a non-intrusive accessory for any outfit. This design is transparent enough to showcase your eye makeup but defined enough to make a statement. This design is also available in black, dark brown, and red violet.
Pricing and Value
Gentle Monster sunglasses typically range from $300 to $500, with most pairs falling within the $300 to $400 price range. The thinner, more delicate frames with tinted lenses tend to have a higher price point than the wide-rimmed black pieces. Regular glasses range from $250 to $380, depending on the frame style and tint.
Are Gentle Monster Glasses Worth It?
Considering the brand’s innovative approach to eyewear and its commitment to quality, Gentle Monster glasses are worth the investment for those who appreciate art-focused brands and unique designs. The brand’s distinctive style and the thought and emotion invested in each product make Gentle Monster glasses a valuable addition to any eyewear collection.
Conclusion
Gentle Monster is a brand that has successfully carved out a niche in the eyewear industry thanks to its innovative designs, unique brand identity, and commitment to quality. Whether you’re a fan of the brand’s celebrity endorsements or simply appreciate the artistry behind each pair of glasses, Gentle Monster offers a fresh, exciting take on eyewear worth exploring.
