In a world where eyewear often feels mass-produced and impersonal, Anne et Valentin has long stood apart – championing individuality, creative expression, and fearless design. What began as a quiet rebellion against generic frames has become one of the most respected and artful eyewear brands in the world.
A Creative Beginning in Toulouse
The story of Anne et Valentin begins in Toulouse, France in the late 1980s. At the time, Valentin, a trained optician, had grown increasingly disillusioned with the conventional, uninspired frames available to his clients. His partner, Anne, a free-spirited artist with a passion for form, colour, and innovation, shared his frustration.
Together, they envisioned something radically different: frames that enhanced a person’s character, not masked it. Frames that were not just functional, but expressive, bold without being brash, sophisticated without being sterile. They decided to design their own collection. The result? A brand that combined Anne’s artistic instincts with Valentin’s technical expertise – marrying precision and personality in every piece.
Designed for Originals
At the heart of Anne et Valentin is a deep respect for individuality. Each collection begins with a vision of the person who might wear it. The design process is not trend-driven, but personality-driven. Frames are created to complement expressive, independent minds.
The brand is known for playing with geometry, texture, and unexpected colour combinations. Think asymmetrical angles, layered materials, and a palette that ranges from rich earth tones to electric brights. Yet every frame is engineered with an optician’s eye for balance, comfort, and fit.
This design philosophy, equal parts avant-garde and wearable, has drawn a loyal following among artists, architects, creatives, and thinkers around the world. Each pair of Anne et Valentin glasses is a statement, but also a companion.
Made in France, Made with Care
Unlike many eyewear brands, Anne et Valentin continues to produce its frames in France, collaborating closely with master artisans and manufacturers. This commitment to quality ensures that every hinge, every curve, every detail is executed to perfection.
Even their acetate, used in many of their most iconic designs, is custom-developed in Italy, with colour and transparency tailored specifically to their vision. Their metalwork is similarly bespoke, with intricate finishes and unexpected detailing that elevate the frames into wearable sculpture.
Join Us for an Afternoon Preview
If you're curious to experience the latest Anne et Valentin collection, Index Eyewear invites you to a one-afternoon-only preview on Friday, 23rd May, from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
Fresh from the Paris Eyewear Show, these new arrivals showcase the brand's most recent creative evolution. Featuring new styles, fresh colours, and all the distinctive character Anne et Valentin is known for.
Try on the collection, pre-order your favourites, and enjoy a complimentary glass of Vilaura bubbles while you browse. Whether you’re a longtime devotee or simply eyewear-curious, we’d love to welcome you.
Where: Index Eyewear, 5 Havelock Road, Havelock North
When: Friday, 23rd May, 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM
RSVP: info@indexeyewear.co.nz by 20th May
Come as you are. Leave with a new perspective.