Nylon (March 2017)

Hella Good Vision

Musicians are often known as much for their image as they are for their music. So when the stars themselves enter the world of design, it's worth a standing ovation. Case in point: Gwen Stefani, who has brought her daring and eclectic style to her own brand, L.A.M.B. This month, she expands her design repertoire to include sunglasses and eyewear. Here, she discusses the launch, created with Manhattan-based optical house Tura.

What is it like designing eyewear?

When you're a celebrity who gets into fashion design, it gives you a little bit of a head start. But I think that with an eyewear collection, people walk into a store and see great glasses that they want to wear and they don't even realize who's making them. For me, that's my ultimate goal, because I want the design to stand on its own.

What inspired you to launch these collections now?

I wanted to do eyewear and sunglasses for a long time and it never came together, but it finally did around the time that I started wearing opticals. So it's perfect timing because now I'm invested emotionally—I have to wear them.

How are the lines different?

L.A.M.B. has a more sophisticated and dramatic feel, whereas gx is a little more colorful and playful, and it's also more affordable.

Describe these collections in three words.

Beautiful, cool, luxurious.

Who or what are your biggest style inspirations?

I've always been fascinated by old Hollywood and anything retro. I get really inspired by looking back on history. I think Angelo Moore of Fishbone has amazing style-he has so much personality he's almost like a walking cartoon. That was a huge influence on me. I'd also say Dolly Parton and Prince.