VAN ASSCHE EYES

CULT eyewear label Oliver Peoples has hooked up with none other than Dior Homme's artistic director, Kris Van Assche, to create its latest collection of surefire sell-out limited edition sunglasses.

The masculine designs, which echo the sporty-yet-sophisticated aesthetic of Van Assche's mainline collections, debuted on his own-name catwalk during Paris Fashion Week - but don't be fooled into thinking they're all about fitting into a trend.

"Being able to change the colour of the lens makes these glasses a product of identity, rather than of fashion," Van Assche explains.

Larry Leight, Oliver Peoples' creative director, was certainly impressed by the designer's enthusiasm for the collaboration.

"Kris is one of the young designers that I truly admire in fashion today," he says. "After my 20 years in the eyewear business, working with some of the top designers this century, his passion for design, and the fresh perspective he brings to the table, is unique and exciting.

" Kris Van Assche's designs for Oliver Peoples will hit the shelves next month, priced £250.