Kirk & Kirk- Eye candy!

One of the first brands to catch people’s eye upon walking into Carytown Optical is Kirk and Kirk, a highly colorful brand designed to turn heads and brighten up faces. This English brand, founded by Karen and Jason Kirk, made their debut in 2013, but their history starts way before that in 1919. Jason’s grandfather Sidney and uncle Percy converted an old sewing machine into a lens cutter, and started the line Kirk Brothers after their innovation took off! This brand brought us adjustable nose pads, and expanded the optical world as we know it. 

Because of his family's accomplishments, Jason Kirk grew up in optics. He absorbed this knowledge, and combined it with the design expertise of his wife Karen Kirk, who studied design in London and worked for Saatchi and Saatchi. Once her focus turned to optics, the result was explosive!

Kirk & Kirk frames are designed in the UK, but are completely handcrafted in France with the finest Italian acrylic material. Kirk and Kirk developed their own acrylic for the construction of their frames. They made this choice because it is extremely lightweight and durable. It doesn’t lose adjustment or stretch out over time. Their biggest reason for turning to acrylic though is the endless array of vibrant colors that simply aren’t possible through acetate, the traditional material for eyewear. Their bold choice to branch out paid off though, providing the optical world with electric frames unique enough to catch the eyes of celebrities Elton John, Fatboy Slim, Morrissey and Mocheeba. 

Kirk and Kirk’s explosive popularity has led to global demand, and they are now being sold around the world in 40 countries! We are proud to bring this innovative and quality brand to the unique and creative people of Richmond Virginia!