The Soulmate sunglasses are a unique addition to the eyewear market, offering a user-centered design that allows wearers to adjust the darkness of the lens according to their needs. This innovative feature is achieved through the use of a double layer polarized lens and a magnetic clip-on, which can be twisted to shift the light transmittance of the lens. This design is a world-first, offering adjustable brightness sunglasses that can adapt to both indoor and outdoor activities.
The inspiration behind the Soulmate sunglasses came from a series of questions that designer Jolly Yan Yee Kee found herself asking. She wondered if it was possible to create sunglasses that could adapt to the user's needs, rather than forcing the user to adapt to the sunglasses. This led to the creation of the Soulmate sunglasses, a design that is both functional and stylish, and one that truly puts the user at the center of the design process.
The design process for the Soulmate sunglasses was not without its challenges. The mechanism of the sunglasses was particularly difficult to perfect, with the designer having to conduct numerous experiments to ensure that the rotating angles of the double lens were identical. Any discrepancy in the angles would result in the sunglasses functioning as 3D glasses. Additionally, the weight of the magnetic clip-on presented a challenge, as it needed to be light enough to stay in place, yet heavy enough to function effectively.
The Soulmate sunglasses were designed and produced in Hong Kong between June and September 2016. The design was then showcased as a finalist in The 18th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition in November 2016 and emerged as a winner in The 3rd Shenzhen Fashion Eyewear Designer Award in December 2016. The design was further recognized with a Silver in A' Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design Award in 2017, a testament to its innovative and user-centered design.
In conclusion, the Soulmate sunglasses by Jolly Yan Yee Kee represent a significant innovation in eyewear design. By allowing users to adjust the brightness of the lens, these sunglasses offer a level of customization and adaptability that is currently unmatched in the eyewear market. This design is a clear demonstration of how thoughtful design and innovative technology can come together to create a product that truly meets the needs of the user.
Project Designers: Jolly Yan Yee Kee
Image Credits: Jolly Yan Yee Kee
Project Team Members: Jolly Yan Yee Kee
Project Name: Soulmate
Project Client: Jolly Yan Yee Kee