At the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, French President Emmanuel Macron turned heads—not just for his geopolitical remarks, but for his striking blue reflective aviator sunglasses.
The shades, from the historic French brand Maison Henry Jullien, became an overnight sensation, sparking memes, stock surges for the manufacturer, and a global conversation about European eyewear craftsmanship. Macron’s choice wasn’t just a fashion statement; it was a nod to the enduring appeal of European-made sunglasses, where heritage, quality, and design converge.
Now, Maison Henry Julien has recorded an exponential increase in demand for these glasses as a result! Fair play Mr Macron to support Made-in-Europe!
Why European-Made Sunglasses Stand Out
European sunglasses are renowned for their heritage and craftsmanship, design innovation, and commitment to sustainability. Brands like Maison Henry Jullien and Persol have been crafting eyewear for nearly a century, using traditional techniques and premium materials. From minimalist Scandinavian styles to bold Italian frames, European brands lead in both classic and avant-garde designs. Many also prioritize eco-friendly materials and ethical production, reflecting Europe’s commitment to sustainability.
1. Maison Henry Jullien (France/Italy) – Handcrafted Luxury Aviators
Maison Henry Jullien is a historic French eyewear brand with roots dating back to 1921. The brand’s iconic Pacific S 01 aviator sunglasses, famously worn by Emmanuel Macron at Davos, are meticulously handcrafted in the Jura region of France.
Each pair is assembled using traditional techniques, including gold-laminated acetate, which ensures both luxury and durability.
The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and heritage is evident in its small-scale production, with only about 1,000 pairs of these sunglasses made annually in a factory north of Geneva. This dedication to artisanal quality and local production underscores Maison Henry Jullien’s role as a guardian of French eyewear tradition.
2. Persol (Italy) – Timeless Italian Craftsmanship
Persol is an Italian luxury eyewear brand renowned for its timeless designs and unparalleled craftsmanship.
Founded in 1917, Persol has maintained its production in Italy, where skilled artisans craft each frame with precision and care. The brand is celebrated for its use of high-quality materials, including acetate and metal, and its innovative designs that blend classic elegance with modern functionality.
Persol’s commitment to Italian manufacturing ensures that every pair of sunglasses reflects the brand’s heritage of excellence and attention to detail, making it a favorite among style icons and connoisseurs of fine eyewear.
Persol is owned by Luxottica Group S.p.A., an Italian eyewear multinational corporation headquartered in Milan. Luxottica itself is part of EssilorLuxottica SA, a Franco-Italian vertically integrated multinational holding company registered in Charenton-Le-Pont and headquartered in Paris. EssilorLuxottica is the result of a merger between Luxottica and the French lens manufacturer Essilor, creating the world’s largest eyewear company.
What makes EssilorLuxottica particularly notable is its extensive portfolio of global eyewear brands, many of which were acquired over decades. Luxottica’s acquisitions include iconic names such as Ray-Ban (1999), Oakley (2007), Oliver Peoples (2007), and Alain Mikli (2012), as well as long-term licensing agreements with luxury fashion houses like Chanel, Prada, Burberry, and Ralph Lauren. The company also owns major retail chains such as Sunglass Hut, LensCrafters, and Pearle Vision, further solidifying its dominance in the eyewear industry.
3. ic! berlin (Germany) – Innovative German Design
ic! berlin is a German eyewear brand that stands out for its innovative, screw-less hinge technology and minimalist designs.
All ic! berlin sunglasses are handmade in Berlin, ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality.
The brand’s focus on local production not only supports German artisans but also allows for greater control over the manufacturing process, resulting in sunglasses that are both stylish and durable.
ic! berlin’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its use of high-quality, long-lasting materials, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing environmental impact.
4. Vuarnet (France) – High-Performance French Eyewear
Vuarnet is a legendary French brand known for its high-performance sunglasses, originally designed for athletes and adventurers. The brand’s frames and lenses are crafted in France, with a strong emphasis on durability and optical precision.
Vuarnet’s use of mineral glass lenses, renowned for their clarity and scratch resistance, sets the brand apart in the world of sports and lifestyle eyewear.
The brand’s dedication to French manufacturing and its focus on creating sunglasses that can withstand extreme conditions highlight its commitment to quality and sustainability in eyewear production.
5. Fr!tz Eyewear (Austria) – Austrian Craftsmanship and Sustainability
Fr!tz Eyewear is an Austrian brand known for its high-quality, sustainable sunglasses.
All Fr!tz Eyewear products are designed and manufactured in Austria, Germany and Italy, ensuring full European craftsmanship and adherence to strict environmental and ethical standards.
he brand emphasizes durability, timeless design, and the use of eco-friendly materials, making it a standout choice for those seeking both style and sustainability in their eyewear.
Fr!tz Eyewear’s commitment to local production and responsible practices reflects its dedication to reducing environmental impact while delivering premium quality.
6. Jimmy Fairly (France) – Stylish French Eyewear with European Craftsmanship
Jimmy Fairly is a contemporary French eyewear brand known for its stylish, accessible, and high-quality sunglasses. The brand is owned by the European group HLD, ensuring its commitment to European production and design values.
Jimmy Fairly’s sunglasses are designed in France and manufactured in Europe, reflecting a blend of modern aesthetics and traditional craftsmanship.
The brand emphasizes affordability without compromising on quality, making it a popular choice for fashion-conscious consumers seeking European-made eyewear.
7. Bo Bo Noir (Portugal) – Architectural Portuguese Eyewear
Bo Bo Noir is a Portuguese eyewear brand that approaches sunglasses as architectural pieces for the face. The brand’s frames are designed and crafted in Portugal, where a rich tradition of artisanal craftsmanship meets contemporary design.
Bo Bo Noir’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of high-quality, durable materials and its focus on creating timeless pieces that transcend seasonal trends.
The brand’s emphasis on local production and independent design makes it a standout in the world of European eyewear, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern sophistication.
8. Ullerco (Spain) – Sustainable Spanish Eyewear
Ullerco is a Spanish brand dedicated to creating sustainable, high-quality sunglasses. Ullerco’s frames are designed and manufactured in Spain, using eco-friendly materials such as recycled plastics and bio-based acetates.
The brand’s commitment to local production and environmental responsibility ensures that each pair of sunglasses is both stylish and sustainable.
Ullerco’s focus on durability and timeless design makes it a standout choice for those seeking eco-conscious eyewear.
9. MYKITA (Germany) – Precision German Engineering and Handcrafted Design
MYKITA is a Berlin-based eyewear brand renowned for its precision engineering, innovative design, and handcrafted quality. Founded in 2003, MYKITA combines traditional German craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, producing all its frames in-house at its own manufacture in Germany.
The brand is celebrated for its minimalist yet bold designs, use of high-quality materials, and commitment to sustainability, including the development of eco-friendly materials like MYLON, a bio-based acetate.
MYKITA’s dedication to local production and meticulous attention to detail has established it as a leader in contemporary European eyewear, appealing to those who value both style and substance.
10. Izipizi (France) – Affordable and Eco-Friendly French Style
Izipizi is a French eyewear brand founded in 2010, known for its affordable, stylish, and eco-conscious sunglasses. While the brand’s designs originate in Paris, some of its frames are made from up to 45% bio-based polyamide derived from castor oil, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability.
Izipizi’s use of plant-based materials and its focus on creating durable, lightweight frames make it a leader in environmentally friendly eyewear.
Although Izipizi is a French company and all Izipizi’s glasses are designed in Paris, the majority of its products are made in Taiwan.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Fashion Statement
European-made sunglasses are a testament to the continent’s rich heritage of craftsmanship, design, and innovation. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of Persol, the innovative designs of ic! berlin, or the eco-friendly approach of Izipizi and Ullerco, European brands offer something for every style and value.
So next time you’re in the market for new shades, consider going for ones with European origin: this is where style meets substance!
