Viage11: Revolutionizing Eyewear with Modular Design

Mijin Lee's Innovative Approach to Sustainable and Versatile Eyewear

Viage11 is not just another eyewear brand. Unlike mass-produced frames and sunglasses, Viage11 offers a unique product that allows users to create 11 different styles from a single pair of glasses. The design is inspired by the growing awareness of the environmental impact of the fashion industry and the need for sustainable solutions. Viage11 serves to accentuate individual identity, offering a versatile and eco-friendly alternative to traditional eyewear.

The unique properties of Viage11 lie in its innovative hinge system. The temples of the glasses, encased in stainless steel, clip into the frame, minimizing direct handling of the frame itself. This design enables users to easily change their style. The additional accents provided with each pair of glasses are secured by the detachable temple component, which clips over the base frame and onto the frame.

The design of Viage11 is realized through a patented hinge system that has revolutionized eyewear manufacturing. Traditional frames often have individual parts joined together with screws, which tend to loosen and require constant tightening. Viage11's innovation eliminates screws, rivets, and soldering, offering a durable and lightweight frame that fits nearly all face shapes.

Viage11's design process began in May 2017, with the first prototype released in 2019. The design was exhibited at Silmo Paris in September of the same year. The design was based on research conducted by IDI and FGI from eyewear users in their 20s to 40s. The research revealed a desire for more versatile designs and functions, leading to the creation of Viage11's modular system.

Despite the challenges faced during the design process, including maintaining a lightweight frame even with the addition of accents, Viage11 emerged as a unique and innovative solution. The frames, made from 0.7mm sheets of stainless steel, weigh under 13g, making them 3-4 times lighter than regular glasses. The design was awarded Silver in the A' Eyewear Design Award in 2023, reflecting its outstanding expertise and innovation.

In conclusion, Viage11 is a testament to the power of innovative design in addressing environmental concerns and consumer needs. Mijin Lee's creation offers a sustainable, versatile, and stylish solution to eyewear, proving that one pair of glasses can indeed replace an entire collection.