We are delighted to have our beloved optometrist Ruth back in the eye test room on Wednesdays. You can directly book your New Year EYE EXAM with Ruth, Nic, Hajra or Rene here:
It’s just under two weeks until the big day and Newcastle is busier than ever with the mad dash of Christmas shoppers. If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for your loved one, then allow us to take the pressure off with our Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide!
Whether your loved one is a GSO regular or new to the world of eyewear, we have something for everyone.
Surprise them with something from their Christmas wishlist
Did you know that we keep records of our frame fanatics’ wish lists throughout the year? If you love someone who loves GSO, chances are we know what they want for Christmas! Come in for a chat with our eyewear experts and we’ll help you find the perfect gift.
Need a little bit more inspiration? Read on to find out our recommendations in our Holiday Gift Guide..
For The Fashionista
Ahlem sunglass frames
For a fashion-lover seeking the celebrity look, we have just the thing! How about a beautiful pair of Ahlem sunspecs? Adored by Natalie Portman to LeBron James.
GLCO frames
For a more laidback vibe, look no further than Garrett Leight. Worn by Brad Pitt, Kendall Jenner and pretty much anyone else you can think of!
For the Colour Lover
Into dopamine dressing?
Inject some colour into your eyewear collection with a bold and beautiful frame by Theo, Oscar Mamooi or Anne et Valentin
For The Environmentalist
Want to expand your eyewear collection without impacting the environment? Check out our sustainable options by Rolf. Beautiful frames made from castor beans and wood.
For the Outdoors-obsessed
Perfect for the great outdoors
For those who love nothing more than spending time in the great outdoors, some colour changing lenses are a must-have. Either ready-to-wear or fully-customisable, we have a huge range of colours to choose from. Our lenses are complete with a hydrophobic layer for those drizzly days too.
custom tints
For the Sports-fanatic
Whether it’s golf, skiing, swimming, or something more niche, we have eyewear to suit every sporting endeavour. Book an eyewear consultation with one of our experts and we’ll help find the solution for you!
Ask us about our sports eyewear options
Ask us about our sports eyewear options
For the Aspiring Eyewear Aficionado
Junior frame options
Know a youngster who’s looking to expand their eyewear collection? We have a great range of stylish junior optical and frames! For under 16s, all eyewear needs to be dispensed by a registered optician. Why not book your teen in for a frame consultation with one of our experts and treat them to the full GSO experience?
For Winter Sun Seekers
Our sunglass collection
There’s no better time to treat yourself or a loved one to a new pair of sunglasses. We have hundreds of incredible sunglass frames in our collection! Either ready-to-wear or with fully-customised prescription lenses.
*please allow up to 3 weeks depending on custom lens type
Gift Voucher
Christmas Voucher
Christmas Voucher
If your loved one prefers to choose their own, why not request a custom gift voucher? We can provide a voucher for any amount and with a personalised message
*2 days notice required
To make it extra special, our gift vouchers will include a personal Eyewear Consultation appointment with one of our eyewear experts. Allow us to give your loved one the VIP treatment!
Our eyewear accessories and care kits
Stocking Fillers
For the person who has everything, we have a great selection of care kits and accessory items, priced from £10 – £40
Our eyewear accessories and care kits
Large cloth
Slim case
Care kit
Collectors Case
click here To make an appointment for an eyewear consultation for yourself or a loved one
On Friday 21st June we officially kicked-off Sunglass Season with a very special in-store event! We transformed our store into a sunglass showroom and showcased the full SS24 Sun collections from brands like
GLCO
HUG
ANNE ET VALENTIN
AHLEM
and more…
It seems the sun got its invitation and decided to make a guest appearance too, so we really can say that summer has officially started!
We love hosting these special in-store events. They’re a great opportunity to show appreciation for our loyal clients, and introduce like-minded frame fans. Thanks to everyone who came along, shared a drink and took a look around. We had the best time!
We’re busy working through all pre-orders made on the day. If you’re waiting for your new sunglasses, sit tight! We’ll be in touch soon.
If you’d like to hear about our upcoming events, make sure you’re following our socials here
“Here is how I envision this new collection. Settle into your sitting room after you’ve put your day behind you. Pour yourself a glass of whiskey, neat, two fingers. Tap into your music listening device and select Chris Stapleton, play the track “Tennessee Whiskey”. Sit there and reflect. Once you’re good and deep on your feelings, and your relationship with this brand after a decade of GLCO and all the good memories, select the track “Death Row”, also by Chris Stapleton. Now stand up and strut around your living room. That’s the energy. Do with it what you may”
That’s what brand founder Garrett Leight has to say about the new collection from GLCO.
Want to know more? Read on…
Sherwood
The Sherwood is a compact, tailored square frame taking design notes from classic 50’s eyewear. This frame features a thicker acetate, a custom Braid filigree core wire, and our custom Skyline plaque.
Manzanita
A classic P3 with an uplifted endpiece for a soft, easy wear. Featuring a custom Braid filigree core wire, 5-barrel hinge and a keyhole nose bridge.
Wilshire
The Wilshire is a sophisticated, soft square frame composed of a thin and light weight Cured Cellulose Acetate. Featuring a custom Braid filigree core wire, 5-barrel hinge and a keyhole nose bridge. If you’re fan of our classic Kinney this is a nice addition to your eyewear collection.
Alder
A larger frame for a refined, scholarly look. The Alder features a custom Palm print filagree core wire, Zenith plaques on the temple, and dual-plated real rivet hinges with external pins.
Monarch
Modern meets classic. This elegant, square cat eye frame features a saddle nose bridge, custom Braid filigree core wire and dual-plated real rivet hinges with external pins.
To view this collection for yourself, arrange your frame consultation here
It’s just under three weeks until the big day and Newcastle is busier than ever with the mad dash of Christmas shoppers. If you’re struggling to find the perfect gift for your loved one, then allow us to take the pressure off with our Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide
Whether your loved one is a GSO regular or new to the world of eyewear, we have something for everyone.
Surprise them with something from their Christmas wishlist
Did you know that we keep records of our frame fanatics’ wish lists throughout the year? If you love someone who loves GSO, chances are we know what they want for Christmas! Come in for a chat with our eyewear experts and we’ll help you find the perfect gift.
Need a little bit more inspiration? Read on to find out our recommendations in our Holiday Gift Guide
For The Fashionista
Ahlem sunglass frames
For a fashion-lover seeking the celebrity look, we have just the thing! How about a beautiful pair of Ahlem sunspecs? Adored by Natalie Portman to LeBron James.
GLCO frames
For a more laidback vibe, look no further than Garrett Leight. Worn by Brad Pitt, Kendall Jenner and pretty much anyone else you can think of!
For The Art Lover
Theo POP ART
If art’s your thing, why not adorn yourself with a beautiful piece of wearable art?
Theo’s Pop Art series is inspired by the artists of the pop art era and their iconic subjects: Think Debby Harry as portraited by Andy Warhol. With the bold contours, colours and geometry of Roy Lichtenstein.
For the Outdoors-obsessed
Perfect for the great outdoors
For those who love nothing more than spending time in the great outdoors, some colour changing lenses are a must-have. Either ready-to-wear or fully-customisable, we have a huge range of colours to choose from. Our lenses are complete with a hydrophobic layer for those drizzly days too.
custom tints
For the Sports-fanatic
Whether it’s golf, skiing, swimming, or something more niche, we have eyewear to suit every sporting endeavour. Book a frame consulation with one of our experts and we’ll help find the solution for you!
Ask us about our sports eyewear options
For the Aspiring Eyewear Aficionado
Junior frame options
Know a youngster who’s looking to expand their eyewear collection? We have a great range of stylish junior optical and frames! For under 16s, all eyewear needs to be dispensed by a registered optician. Why not book your teen in for a frame consultation with one of our experts and treat them to the full GSO experience?
For Winter Sun Seekers
Our sunglass collection
There’s no better time to treat yourself or a loved one to a new pair of sunglasses. We have hundreds of incredible sunglass frames in our collection! Either ready-to-wear or with fully-customised prescription lenses.
*please allow up to 3 weeks depending on custom lens type
Gift Voucher
Christmas Voucher
If your loved one prefers to choose their own, why not request a custom gift voucher? We can provide a voucher for any amount and with a personalised message
*2 days notice required
To make it extra special, our gift vouchers will include a personal Frame Consultation appointment with one of our eyewear experts. Allow us to give your loved one the VIP treatment!
Stocking Fillers
For the person who has everything, we have a great selection of care kits and accessory items, priced from £10 – £40
Our eyewear accessories and care kits
Large cloth
Slim case
Care kit
Collectors Case
To make an appointment for a frame consultation for yourself or a loved one, get in touch
Join us 2nd and 3rd November for a very special event: Ahlem Atelier
All about Ahlem
AHLEM is a luxury eyewear brand Renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, timeless designs, and commitment to sustainable production.
Founder Ahlem Manai Platt has a remarkable background in the fashion industry.
Ahlem Manai Platt
After studying art history, she gained experience at prestigious fashion houses such as Acne Studios and Prada. She founded her eponymous brand after a series of chance encounters…
“We were with friends at a cafe in Paris, discussing goals, and I showed the group a sketch from my notebook,” she says. “The excitement they expressed gave me the guts; the loss of a beloved pair of vintage sunnies shortly thereafter gave me the final push.”
Ahlem went on to become a finalist in Vogue’s CFDA Fashion Fund and she founded AHLEM in 2014.
We added Ahlem to the Grey St. collection in 2017 as a capsule range of their metal styles. We quickly fell in love with their stunning acetate designs too, as well as the ethos of the brand. The rest is history.
Team GSO with Ahlem
Since then AHLEM has catapulted into worldwide success. Not only is AHLEM a favourite of Grey St. followers, but they are also admired by famous faces and fashion icons:
Tom Holland in Ahlem
Seth Rogan in Ahlem
And our personal favourite: Will Young in AHLEM, styled by Grey St. Optician
AHLEM have recently collaborated with VOGUE to create a custom sunglass frame. They have also been featured in GQ, Elle, Financial Times, Mens Health, Monocole and many many more
The Process
AHLEM may be famous for their exquisite designs, but this attention to detail is also extended to their craftsmanship. AHLEM source materials from the most reputable and sustainable suppliers available to market. From plant-based acetate and naturally non-toxic titanium to recyclable, eco-friendly lenses, they firmly believe that honest, Earth-friendly ingredients make the best and longest-lasting products.
Each piece is handmade in France in small batches to achieve an unparalleled standard of quality. Their acetate temples are raw cut by hand, with a matte finish. They celebrate the imperfections that come from raw cuts of one-of-a-kind slabs and unique colourways.
“We are committed to delivering exceptional eyewear created with pure concepts, honest materials and heritage techniques. Our award-winning frames are handcrafted in France and Japan with uncompromising attention to detail and quality.”
The Paris Line
“The Paris Line” FW23 sees Ahlem return to her roots. It is the first collection entirely conceived and produced in France following the designer’s transatlantic move back to Paris. The lines running throughout the collection symbolise continuity and the certainty of being established in one place.
AHLEM’s organic shapes surpass trend. She believes that objects of timeless design and superior quality are always relevant. There truly is something for every face within this superb collection.
Ahlem FW23
GSO becomes AHLEM ATELIER
On 2nd and 3rd of November, we are honoured to host AHLEM ATELIER: A showcase of Ahlem’s FW2023 collection. For just two days we will be in possession of the ENTIRE collection from AHLEM. Every exquisite optical and sunglass, in every stunning colourway will be right here on Grey St. for guests to explore.
This will be our first Ahlem event on Grey Street so we are very excited! The champagne will be flowing and we’ll have some delicious treats lined up from local French bakery Le Mini Macaron!
Our in-store events are a great opportunity to discover ideas for your next frame. If you see something you love there will be special discounts available on the day.
This event is strictly by appointment only, so please click the link for more information, or to RSVP.
If you’re a follower of our socials, you’ve probably spotted our NEFempowerment interview! NEFempowerment is a creative corner of the internet dedicated to showcasing the inspiring people and businesses of the North East of England. It’s an honour to say that we’ve been included in that list!
NeFe shares our belief in the importance of community, and we really couldn’t be in better company.
Creator Charlotte has previously featured local entrepeneurs such as Sarah Taylor, founder of vegan skincare line Pajoma, and barista cafe owner Jo Peel of Regular Jo’s Coffee (both of whom just to happen to be friends of GSO too!)
As well as interviews with some fascinating folk, the site also features local guides on everything from the best brunch spots to smallbiz stocking fillers. NeFempowerment is our go-to blog for all things NE so when Charlotte reached out about our own feature we were thrilled!
Everyone who knows our team knows we’re an opinionated bunch with plenty to say! We decided we couldn’t just hear from one member of team GSO, so we got together and shared out the questions equally…
Charlotte asked us about our business approach, our brands, and our challenges and achievements. She also asked us what we love about the north east (hint: the people and the pastries!)
Finally we chatted about equality, community and how that links into everything we do here at Grey St. Optician.
The interview
Here’s a sneak peek:
NEFE: What is Grey St. Optician?
Nic: Grey St. optician is a glasses store with a difference. We have been sharing our passion for amazing eyewear in the centre of Newcastle since 2007
NEFE: What do you love most about living and working in the North East?
Frederike: There’s a good vibe in Newcastle at the moment with lots of cool, independent stores and of course the people are so friendly!
NEFE: Why is community so important to you?
Laura: We seek out brands who share our values and introduce their work t the people of the north east. The frames we sell are unique. We often hear of customers spotting each other “that looks like a Grey St. frame!” It inspires a little connection
NEFE: What does your average day look like?
Becks: No day is average at Grey St! We sprinkle fun, joy and passion into everything we do. We are a team of busy bees who like to do things differently.
What a blast we had in Antwerp last week on our Theo training trip! We visited Theo headquarters in Belgium to explore inside the minds behind the weird, wonderful and beautiful things they do and create.
Theo Training
It was lovely to learn more about the history of Theo and how it all began. From the wild, creative eyewear force of father Wim, to the organisation and attention to detail instilled by his sons to turn this family business into a global force.
Feeling the love
There was time to explore the city of Antwerp and sample the Belgian beer, chocolate and food!
We LOVE having a close connection to the people behind the frames and sharing their stories with you.
Grey St. Optician will be CLOSED on Monday 10th July. Our good friends from Belgium, THEO, have invited us over for a visit!
This was a trip no-one wanted to miss so the full GREY ST. team will be there. Normal service will resume from 10.30am on Tuesday 11th July with many tales to tell…
STORIES
Theo are a brand with a story to tell and we have been telling their story for over ten years on Grey Street! They continue to surprise us with their latest offerings which are always bright, fun and completely original.
We are looking forward to discovering what they are dreaming up next, and how they bring it to life in their Antwerpen Entrepot.
Unique eyewear
Theo release “families” of frames with exciting new themes. Each family of frames has 4 or 5 models with a variety of interesting shapes. Each shape has an assortment of amazing colours to blow your mind!
The family, shape and colour you choose will make your Theo glasses novel and unique to you. Glasses are an extension of your personality so why not make them bright, interesting and fun?!
Introducing the families
Here’s a brief intro to some of Theo’s families, and the story behind them…
Perspective
Beck’s is wearing this stunner from the Perspective family which has channelled the genius of Leonardo da Vinci. His famous one-point-perspective has already proven its use in painting, architecture
and engineering, but centuries after the Renaissance, it also works for eyewear
design! Bigger at the front, smaller at the back, that’s how Leonardo’s ‘illusion of
depth’ works on a flat canvas. Like a worthy apprentice, Theo has put their own spin on the
master’s rules, keeping the dimensions of the drawing, but freeing the design from
its flat surface. The result? Artistically asymmetrical frames! It’s like looking at an
intriguing piece of sculpture: when the angle changes, so does the illusion. Extreme
depth to extreme symmetry with a turn of the head.
Pop Art
If you have Theo’s Pop art glasses on then you have a nose for art! “Eye-catcher in this special broadcast: everywhere people reported seeing sixties celebrities like Elvis P., Liz T., Jackie K. or Debbie H. on the street. Holograms, lookalikes, mass history, fake news? On closer inspection, they were always ordinary individuals with extraordinary glasses from the exclusive Pop art family of theo eyewear.”
A. Warhol must be snickering somewhere in higher realms. The names of the 4 Pop art
models refer to his famous star portraits: Elvis, Liz, Jackie and Debbie. For the bold
contours, the colours and the printing dots, fashion godchild Tim Van Steenbergen and
home designer Serge Bracké found inspiration in Roy Liechtenstein.
Swings
Like a child on a swing: Close your eyes and dream away: you’re on the highest swing! Up and down, higher
and higher, reaching for the sky. The newest theo family makes you feel joyous like
a child on a swing. If pure fun can be expressed in acetate frames, this is what it
looks like: three colours in one design, a transparent curve and a playful pattern,
it doesn’t get much merrier than that. When you look at the world through these
cheerful spectacles, you forget about grownup restrictions. Just release that inner
child and play!
Sunglass Season is HERE
His famous one-point-perspective has already proven its use in painting, architecture
“Eye-catcher in this special broadcast: everywhere people reported seeing sixties
Close your eyes and dream away: you’re on the highest swing! Up and down, higher