A new celeb-approved sunglasses collection and more summer drops

• Actor Chase Stokes drops eyewear with Zenni Optical
• M. Gemi and Cosabella launched swimwear and sandals, while Tombolo teams up with Sopranos on cool summer fits

When it comes to style, we are all inspired by what we see; whether it be a well-dressed celebrity, a blow-your-mind catwalk presentation or even a fashionable passerby.

As fashion editors, we’re moved by all of the above, and then some. We’re exposed to under-the-radar labels; we get a first-hand look at collections months before they hit stores; we attend VIP events; we’re tapped into brands with chic-yet-cheap offerings and we shop — a lot.

To share our knowledge, FEMAIL brings you Style Swoon, a weekly series of the latest, greatest and on the verge. We hope this series will serve as a buying guide and point of inspiration for all.

Sunglasses for every occasion  

On Monday, May 20th, Chase Stokes, actor and star of Netflix’s ‘Outer Banks,’ teamed up with online eyewear retailer Zenni Optical, to introduce an exclusive eyewear collection designed to complement every lifestyle.

The “Zenni x Chase Stokes Collection” features hand-selected unisex frames personally curated by the star to complement any daily activity.

As a glasses wearer he recognizes the significance of smart looking eyewear to meet all of life’s needs – whether it’s hitting the gym, enjoying outdoor grilling sessions, or making appearances on the red carpet.

‘Eyewear has been an important part of my life since I was young, and Zenni’s dedication to affordability and quality aligns perfectly with my values,’ said Chase Stokes 

‘Whether you’re like me and always on the move, or you just appreciate having a variety of options, there’s a style in here for you. That’s what Zenni’s all about – eyewear for everyone and every style, no matter where life takes you.’

The collection consists of over 35 versatile unisex frames that are thoughtfully selected to complement any outfit, mood or daily activity. 

Prices start at just $23.95, and all frames can be ordered as sunglasses, with prescription and/or Blokz blue light-blocking lenses.

‘Chase’s enthusiasm for eyewear, eye protection, and fashion shines through in every frame of this collection,’ said Veronica Alcaro, Zenni’s VP of Brand. 

‘His unique style and approachable personality make him a perfect fit for Zenni as he helps champion our mission of providing stylish, affordable eyewear to everyone.’

The campaign was directed by Nathan Presley, shot by Phil Chester and Sara Byrne and styled by Avo Yermagyan. 

Shoes and suits 

On Tuesday, May 21st, female-founded brands M. Gemi and Cosabella just launched their inaugural collaboration of swimwear and sandals that transports you to the Italian seaside.

A shared tie to Italian heritage and craftsmanship, both labels, aim to preserve centuries-old, generational craft and livelihood of Italian makers while offering accessible luxury styles.

M.Gemi is known for their handcrafted shoes, handbags, and accessories, and Cosabella, for its luxury lingerie made of bespoke lace with an exceptional fit.

The collection includes a curated selection of three M.Gemi sandal styles: the celebrity-loved Matilde slide adorned with suede-covered buckles, the Positano-style Medio sandal with elegant crossover straps, and the elevated Lizza platform boasting a distinctive flared heel, embodying sophistication and style.

Complementing the footwear offerings is Cosabella’s Vita Marina swimwear collection.

The body flattering suits are crafted from an Italian performance knit designed for snatching and sculpting, offering subtle compression and anti-slip properties for a secure fit. 

Additionally, the fabric boasts quick-drying capabilities, a UPF factor of 50+, and resistance to pilling. 

Key products include a convertible 4-way bandeau bikini top, a skirt-to-high-waist bottom conversion, and a figure-enhancing bandeau one-piece.

Italian-inspired fits 

On Wednesday, May 22nd, fashion brand Tombolo and the Sopranos hosted a party in celebration of their collaboration at New York City’s latest hotspot Mulberry Street Bar, located at 176 Mulberry Street in Manhattan’s West Village.

Guests – including Chris Galasso, Mike Sard, Heidi Gardner, Emilio Vitolo, Anthony Demonte, Arianna Margulis, Drew Jessup and more – enjoyed hand rolled cigars, gabagool, and live performances straight out of the Bada Bing Club.

In true Italian fashion, the ready-to-wear collection was cleverly on display on smoking mannequins sitting at tables dressed in checkered tablecloths with large plates of spaghetti and meatballs.

Tombolo was founded in 2018 by two best friends since childhood in New York.

The ‘escapewear’ brand offers spirited and original apparel that transports customers to a different time, place or state of mind. 

Their design philosophy is grounded in a serious commitment to high quality eco-friendly materials, targeted support for social causes, and treat-your-customers-like-your-friends service. T

The label is best known for its creative reimagining of ‘cabana shirts’ — the terry cloth, poolside ensembles that were popular in the 1950s and 60s. 

The perfect summer sandal 

On Thursday, May 23rd, women’s clothing brand Ciao Lucia and shoe brand Margaux hosted an intimate lunch in celebration of their collaboration.

The elegant soiree took place at The Little Prince located at 199 Prince Street in Manhattan’s Soho area.

Industry experts Lucy Akin, Alexa Buckley Roussel, Sarah Pierson, Leandra Medine Irina Grechko and more were in attendance and dressed to impress on the warm spring day.

Just in time for summer, the two brands collaborated on the perfect leather sandal dubbed The Palermo.

The limited edition shoe featured perfectly placed straps and a cushioned insole that make it ideal for long summer days (and nights).

It’s available in two colorways, brown and black, and retails for $275.

Founded in 2017 by Lucy Akin, LA-based brand Ciao Lucia has quickly become a celebrity staple.

It’s been seen on the likes of Kaia Gerber, Kendall Jenner, Margot Robbie, Jennifer Lawrence and Gigi Hadid.

The ready-to-wear brand of clothing and accessories focuses on timeless and classic silhouettes, inspired by nostalgia for travel, that easily become wardrobe essentials. 

Harvard graduates Sarah Pierson and Alexa Buckley launched Margaux in 2015 with the mission of creating beautiful shoes that meet the demands of everyday life. 

Designed in New York City, and crafted in Spain, Margaux also offers inclusive sizing with its vast range (from EU 33 to 45) and option to choose from three widths (narrow, medium, or wide).