Exploring Moscot's Fall 2023 Eyewear Collection: A Nod to the Past, a Leap into the Future
EYEWEAR
Family Traditions, Modern Sensibility: The MOSCOT Legacy in Contemporary Fashion
4 MINS READ TIME
Words By Igee OkafoR
Photography COURTESY OF MOSCOT
In the ever-changing landscape of fashion, eyewear has transcended its utilitarian roots to become a powerful fashion statement, and for over a century, MOSCOT has been leading the charge in this realm. With its latest Fall collection, MOSCOT pays homage to its rich heritage while embracing modernity and innovation. This season, the brand takes inspiration from the vibrant and diverse Lower East Side of the late 60s and early 70s, infusing the collection with the essence of urban sport and redefining aviators for the modern era.
For MOSCOT'S Fall 2023 collection, Zack Moscot embarked on a captivating journey through time, drawing inspiration from the iconic Lower East Side during the late 60s and early 70s. This era, renowned for its unique and striking aesthetic, served as the wellspring for MOSCOT’S creative exploration into its past decades and the diverse array of customers who adorned their eyewear during those times. By immersing themselves in the spirit of the period and meticulously examining the fashion choices, conversations, and personas of those who frequented the Lower East Side, MOSCOT uncovered a treasure trove of inspiration that breathed life into its Fall collection.
In an exclusive interview with BOND OFFICIAL, Chief Design Officer at MOSCOT, Zack Moscot, emphasizes the importance of respecting the brand's heritage, recognizing the significance of what has come before, and not being overly eager to reinvent the wheel. Instead, he curates and celebrates the timeless designs that have garnered admiration for decades, allowing the brand's rich history to guide its creative decisions. "Small design tweaks like adding gold plated hardware and playing with new lens technology and different kinds of tints and things like this that can make it pop, but not denigrate the integrity of the design."
Zack Moscot
Photo: Courtesy of MOSCOT
Preserving the brand's identity while integrating contemporary elements requires a delicate balance, and MOSCOT has perfected this art. With a storied heritage spanning over a century, the brand understands the importance of respecting its legacy. Instead of reinventing the wheel, MOSCOT’S creative team focuses on curating and enhancing timeless designs that have stood the test. By reimagining classic aviator silhouettes, playing with a vibrant palette of colors, and leveraging new manufacturing techniques, MOSCOT adeptly keeps its eyewear both classic and relevant.
Customer preferences lie at the heart of any brand's success, and MOSCOT has been attuned to the evolving desires of its clientele. An increasing demand for bold and chunky frames that make a distinctive fashion statement has been noticed, with customers viewing eyewear as a pivotal accessory that sets the tone for their entire ensemble. MOSCOT wholeheartedly embraces chunky frames and ventures into uncharted territory with unique materials, such as their eight-millimeter custom-manufactured acetate, to meet these expectations. Moreover, the fit has always been a priority for MOSCOT, with the brand investing substantial time and expertise to ensure its frames offer unparalleled comfort and are impeccably designed for each individual. Innovation and evolution are vital aspects of MOSCOT’S creative process. Zack discusses the art of subtly reinventing classic styles, infusing them with modern elements like unique colors, hardware, and lens technology while preserving the essence and integrity of the original design. “People are willing to wear bigger and bolder frames, especially as eyewear becomes this integral fashion statement piece, and it's the first thing you see on someone's face before you see their shoes and their belt."
He continues the conversation on how MOSCOT’S Fall 2023 collection embraces the trend of chunky frames, reflecting the shifting perception of eyewear as a prominent fashion accessory. The brand recognizes that bold and attention-grabbing frames have become a means for individuals to express their style and make a statement. "I've been playing a lot with this eight-millimeter acetate that we custom manufacture because people don't make it that thick. But I think that's what a lot of people are gravitating towards. And it's just big and bold, which is so New York City; it's so downtown.”
The Fall 2023 collection comprises five frames, each paying homage to MOSCOT’S love for basketball. MOSCOT strikes the perfect balance between providing variety and avoiding overwhelming its customers by offering a limited but carefully curated range. The creation process for each frame begins approximately two years before its launch, involving the development of 20 to 30 initial design prototypes, which are then refined to the final five frames that exquisitely blend commercial viability with artistic expression.
To evaluate the success of a frame, MOSCOT takes a holistic approach that transcends mere sales figures. While sales certainly play a significant role, the brand also values a frame's impact on its customers and its ability to reflect the craftsmanship and design prowess that define the MOSCOT brand.
MOSCOT’S Fall 2023 collection is a stunning showcase of blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques. One example is The SHVITZ frame, which artfully combines a wrapped frame front with four rivets on the side, ensuring enhanced comfort and strength. Furthermore, MOSCOT introduces custom-made tints, meticulously hand-dipped and dyed, infusing the collection with vibrant colors. These techniques add a playful element and imbue the classic designs with a renewed sense of life, elevating the eyewear to new heights.
The collection is a seamless fusion of its rich heritage with contemporary trends. Drawing inspiration from the Lower East Side's vibrant past, MOSCOT has crafted a collection that resonates deeply with urban sports enthusiasts while staying true to the classic designs that have defined the brand for over a century. Through its commitment to customer satisfaction, unwavering focus on quality craftsmanship, and innovative approach, MOSCOT continues to set the bar high for eyewear design. The Fall 2023 collection is a testament to the brand's enduring creativity and dedication to redefining aviators for the modern era.
