iCust — custom, interchangeable eyewear accessories that adapt to any frame
Eyeglasses often become a permanent part of one’s appearance—we select a comfortable frame and wear it every day. This project proposes keeping that familiar foundation while allowing it to evolve. Detachable accessories clip onto the temples, enabling users to create different looks with a single pair of glasses.
At the core of this project is an interest in the small details near the face. Even a change in color or texture noticeably influences the entire look. Soft textiles, faux fur, translucent inlays, and metallic surfaces create diverse combinations with the frame, clothing, and jewelry.
These accessories are designed for everyday wear, meetings, events, and photoshoots. They can be used individually or combined on both temples. The project is intended for people who view their glasses as an integral part of their style and wish to update their appearance without purchasing an entirely new frame.
The project features four types of accessories: a knot, a hair tie, a spiral, and a decorative clip that attaches to an adjustable clamp. Each design interacts with the headband differently: it wraps around it, coils around it, or secures to the outer surface.
Construction, materials, and dimensions
The following guidelines are provided for initial prototypes: the knot should be approximately 45 mm high when worn, the elastic band approximately 28 mm in diameter, the spiral approximately 40 mm in length, and the decorative overlays approximately 30–40 mm.
Knot consists of one loop, an adjustable fastener, and two free ends. The loop is tightened around the hook, and the decorative ends hang freely to the side.
The Elastic Band has a soft, gathered shape and an internal elastic opening. The loop passes through it, and the decorative part is located on the outside, next to the hinge.
Spiral coils around the arch with several turns. The frame remains visible between them. The ends are secured with caps; decorative details are positioned so as not to protrude toward the face.
For the overlays, the idea of a miniature sliding clamp has been developed. Two jaws cradle the arc from top and bottom, and the distance between them is adjustable according to its height. The soft pads protect the frame’s surface. The decorative part rests directly against the outer side of the attachment and predominantly covers it.
Primary Materials — short-pile faux fur (for fur collections), cotton fabric, soft eco-leather, and plush. Embroidery threads, metal hardware, and decorative inserts are used for finishing. The silver overlay material and its coating method are selected in consultation with the production team, taking into account the mass of the item.
Sample Production and Testing
Textile elements are assembled from small components with finished edges and reinforcement at the attachment points. The spiral is formed on an internal core. The clasp requires separate design development and the fabrication of a functional prototype.The samples are tested for the accessory’s stability during movement, ease of fitting, strength of connections, and absence of contact with the skin, lenses, and hinges. Special attention is paid to weight: the ornamentation must not noticeably distort the frame or impede its fit.
Preparation for Production
For the initial launch, a batch of 60 accessories is being considered—15 units of each structural type. Within each design, a single execution will be fixed for calculations; other variations can be developed in subsequent releases.Potential partners include the SKAT 3D Prototyping Center for developing the mounting hardware and the AJ ALOTTI workshop for discussing textile and leather components. The feasibility of manufacturing specific models, minimum order quantities, and cost must be agreed upon based on samples and technical specifications.
The preliminary project budget is approximately ₽141,000, which covers design, prototypes, a small production run, and a contingency for revisions. This is an estimated guideline pending quotes from manufacturers. The preparation and production timeline is 6–8 weeks after the assignment is approved.
The projected retail price ranges from ₽1,900 to ₽3,900 per accessory, depending on its design and materials. The final price will be confirmed after production costs are calculated.
The project will result in a small drop of rental accessories and a documentation kit allowing the replication of the items in a series.
