Stories
Tavat
Roberta Baines
Words editorial staff
08/10/2024
Roberta Baines, CEO of Tavat, tells us the evolution of the most iconic model of the brand and what inspires her while creating new collections
What are the main news of September?
We continue to explore new frontiers in manufacturing and this season, we are introducing a new material that we have never used before, and a new construction we have never done before. While usually our collection focuses on either all-metal frame constructions or a metal frame with a combination element, such as acetate, which gives more contrast, this year we have taken this combination concept a bit further by integrating instead aluminum and we are exploring this metal with metal concept. It's a semi-rimless collection, which does play into our ‘SoupCan Collection’. The result is a very elegant collection, in which each frame is packed with so much detail that they are essentially telling a story on its own. It’s an evolution of our most iconic model, the SoupCan. There’s a strong identity, and a strong story which inspired the design of this frame, and this has been the starting point for many collections.
What makes your style ‘unique’?
We are a technical brand in which we custom make all of our components, and as a result, Tavat can be considered tailored more for a masculine aesthetic but of course, not limited to. We focus more on metal as a primary material and all of the design elements are functional aspects of the frame. We strive to be identifiable from afar yet refined in our expression.
What are your sources of inspirations and your main references?
Our customers are our muse. I create based on how something makes me feel but also how I hope someone who chooses our frames will feel when wearing them. I am inspired by craftsmanship and exploring new methods, and I think about how we can create something that truly highlights the way in which something is handmade. As a result, our collections continue to get more complex: we’re adding more details, we’re playing with plating, we’re having conversations with the artisans, and the dialogues themselves lead to new creations. I think about the profile of our customers. Many are artists, engineers, designers, photographers, individuals who use their hands to create and shape their world. Their eyewear choices are an extension of their personality.
You’re American, but Tavat is based in Asolo, Italy. Why?
Our area is steeped with eyewear tradition and being here helps us have an amazing ability to work with incredible creators and artisans. We are very hands-on with our production, with multiple quality control checkpoints throughout its production cycle, and considering that our product is very technical, we keep our production all local, and for now, Asolo is the perfect place for us.