Some actions can entirely change a situation, a landscape, an atmosphere, a scene. Opening or closing a door or window, switching a TV, a radio, or a light on or off. Stepping in or out. Putting something on or taking it off. Sometimes, all it takes is a symbol: on/off. Two short words, almost like an acronym, that encapsulate a command — and a transformation. It’s that very same simple, practical gesture — putting on or taking off — that instantly converts optical frames into sunglasses. That’s the beauty of clip-ons, which have recently come back into fashion — both for the ease of not having to carry two pairs of glasses and for that reassuring, captivating touch of vintage charm.

It’s no coincidence that Renauld — the iconic luxury brand founded in the 1960s and favoured by Hollywood stars (think Elvis Presley’s sunglasses) — has rekindled that magical visual link to the past. In collaboration with the James Dean Estate, the brand now presents the James Dean by Renauld limited edition — a tribute to the clip-ons often worn by the actor in the 1950s. There are two models: James Dean® and James Dean® 1955, the latter featuring an authenticated part of Dean’s mechanic suit encased within the Renauld Keepsake marque, embedded in the temple. The collection’s ambassador is TV star Antoni Porowski (pictured in the opening image by Jimmy King), photographed in James Dean’s former New York apartment.

Vintage inspiration meets contemporary values of sustainability and craftsmanship in Welt, a unisex model by TBD Eyewear, now also available with clip-ons. Made from bio-acetate with biodegradable demo lenses, fully sustainable packaging, and accessories including a case, cleaning cloth, and box made from recycled materials, it’s a clear example of ethical design. Sustainability also underpins the philosophy of Eco Eyewear. Their latest Retrospect collection is made from a pioneering injection-moulded material derived from castor seed oil, offering a refined look that rivals classic acetate styles. A highlight of the collection is Peak, an optical model available with a polarised clip-on. Thanks to built-in magnets discreetly placed in the frame, the clip-on fits seamlessly, creating a unified look. Having recently achieved carbon-negative status, Eco Eyewear also pledges to plant a tree for every pair sold — in collaboration with Trees for the Future, they’ve already planted 3.8 million. Snob Milano, meanwhile, has turned the clip-on into a signature detail and true style statement. Through an exclusive partnership with Zeiss, the brand has developed magnetic clip-ons specifically designed to complement its frames — rethinking and simplifying the action, and successfully appealing to both younger wearers and women. Among the standout models is Luke, a titanium aviator frame complete with its matching clip-on.

The search for new interpretations of clip-ons continues to weave tradition and innovation, at times venturing into the futuristic. Essential yet forward-looking — and at the same time timeless — the new BL0052 unisex optical frame from Vava Eyewear is crafted from 100% recyclable aluminium and comes with clip-on lenses made from mineral crystal, available in black, blue, and green. Vava has long been a pioneer in sustainable practices and the exploration of new material and aesthetic codes. Past and future converge most strikingly in the Even G1 digital glasses by Even Realities. Powered by HAOS (Holistic Adaptive Optical System) technology, they offer a host of advanced functions, including real-time translation, navigation, and a built-in teleprompter. Made from magnesium alloy with titanium and silicone components, they’re screw-free and fitted with a clip-on. Moscot draws on 110 years of eyewear expertise with Dahven, a bold acetate frame that has become an enduring classic. It can be paired with the Dahven Clip, available in gold or silver with G-15 plastic lenses — or for greater customisation, the Dahven Clip Gold with Custom Made Tints™.

MCM’s eyewear line — from the renowned German luggage brand — evokes new journeys and new perspectives, inspired by the Bauhaus principle: form follows function. The MW5011, a versatile and elegant women’s acetate model, features minimalist lines with strong character, enhanced by a practical metal clip-on for sun protection. Lastly, the poetic M.Snowflake by Unsuikyo — winner of the Grand Prix in the 2025 IOFT Design category — draws on the imagery of water flowing over stone, a metaphor for inner exploration. The clip-on-equipped frame features irregular rims made from real stone encased in transparent bio-acetate, with temples inlaid with natural stone, creating a piece that blends nature and design.
Sometimes it takes just one simple gesture — or rather, two — to turn a glance into a vision: on/off.