College of Optometrists

21 October 2011 Return to news listings

Members and Fellows of the College of Optometrists can take advantage of a generous discount on ‘Cult Eyewear’, a new book published this month on the history of fashion frames and designer eyewear brands.

Written by the College’s Museum Curator Neil Handley and drawing upon his 13 years of experience in interpreting the subject, this book offers a serious historical analysis of the process by which spectacles transitioned from a barely tolerated medical appliance, to a must-have fashion accessory.

The bulk of the 350 illustrations show items preserved within the historical collections of the British Optical Association Museum housed here at the College.

The book places developments within the industry since the 1950s within their wider historical context and documents the controversy surrounding the ‘shopticians’ including the emergence of ‘lifestyle dispensing’ and the serious calls that were made for optometrists to boycott the new fashion styles. In the 21st century, however, this lavishly illustrated book would be a suitable adornment to any optical waiting area and copies are available to College members at a discounted price.

Members of the College of Optometrists can buy the book for the special price of £22 – a saving of £7.95 on the recommended retail price. This price includes free UK postage and packaging. (Overseas costs are available on request). This offer is subject to availability and ends on 31 January 2012.

To order call members need to call the publisher's distribution agent, Marston Books, on 01235 465 500 and quote a special reference code. This code was published in the College's October e-newsletter. Any member not in receipt of that newsletter may contact the museum curator to tell them the code....membership status will be checked on our database.