RIGARDS
At Atelier Mira, we gravitate toward eyewear that feels as thoughtfully made as a piece of jewelry or art. Among the brands that embody this philosophy most completely is RIGARDS, an independent eyewear house known for its soulful craftsmanship and distinctive aesthetic.
Founded in 2012 by Ti Kwa and Jean-Marc Virard, RIGARDS was born from a shared passion for vintage eyewear and a desire to revive the intimacy of handmade design. The name itself comes from the French word regard, meaning “look,” and it reflects the brand’s belief that every frame should invite curiosity and express individuality. Rather than producing eyewear for the masses, RIGARDS creates small-batch pieces infused with the personality of the artisans who make them.
RIGARDS is widely admired for its unconventional use of natural and tactile materials. Instead of relying solely on modern synthetics, the brand embraces buffalo horn, sterling silver, copper, aluminum-magnesium alloys, and occasionally wood or other organic materials. These elements are chosen not only for their beauty but for the way they age, allowing each frame to develop a patina unique to its wearer. In a world of disposable fashion, RIGARDS invites people to experience how eyewear can evolve and deepen in character over time.
Every pair is crafted by hand, often by a single artisan from start to finish. This slow, deliberate process ensures that no two frames are exactly alike. Slight variations in texture, color, and finishing are not imperfections; they are signatures of the human touch. Wearing RIGARDS feels less like putting on a product and more like inhabiting a small, sculptural object created with intention.
Visually, RIGARDS designs walk the line between avant-garde and timeless. Their shapes can be bold or quietly expressive, but they always carry a certain poetic restraint. The brand draws inspiration from vintage silhouettes, architectural forms, and the organic patterns found in nature. The result is eyewear that feels both familiar and otherworldly, pieces that make a statement without shouting.
At Atelier Mira, we connect deeply with the RIGARDS approach. We seek out eyewear for people who value craft and authenticity, who want something that feels personal rather than produced. RIGARDS offers exactly that: frames that merge comfort, artistry, and durability into a single object meant to be lived with. They are for the wearer who appreciates subtle irregularities, who enjoys the feeling of owning something truly handmade, and who wants eyewear that expresses an inner vision.
For those searching for frames unlike anything else, pieces that balance design, heritage, and individuality, RIGARDS is a brand that continues to inspire us. We are proud to share their work with our community and to help our clients discover the frame that resonates with their own sense of style and character.
