Be Brave: MICHALSKY x MISTER SPEX Team Up To Help You See Your Own Strength 

BE BRAVE— the title of Michael Michalsky’s second glasses collection in collab with Mister Spex strikes us just at the right time. While we might feel weak in uncertain times like these, it is important to find strength in the little things, because, at the end of the day, you are braver than you might think. We sat down with the German designer and talked about all the small things that define bravery for him personally, the power of glasses plus their impact on individuality and his creative process. 

Thank you for taking some time for us. Your line with Mister Spex is titled “BE BRAVE“. What does being brave mean to you?

When I started designing the collection six months ago, a lot of things happened that influenced our lives in various ways that are not always positive. I feel that more people have to be brave to defend how far we have come as a society. To me personally, being brave includes having your own opinion and not shying away from it, as well as overcoming yourself and doing things that aren’t always comfortable but very much necessary for a life of individuality, tolerance and freedom. 

What is the last thing you did you consider as brave? 

Three years ago I wrote the book “Let’s talk about style“ where I explained that style isn’t only defined by the way you dress, but also by the way you interact with people. Helping people, having opinions, standing up for tolerance, etc. These things go without saying to me, I’m trying to do that on a daily basis. All of this seeks its beginning in the small things: saying thank you, helping people in need, etc. The other day I helped an older lady taking the stairs when I noticed her struggling.

Being noticeable at first glance, glasses are a very present piece of accessory. Did you feel any pressure to design something that distinguishes a person in some way by highlighting their personality?

Glasses are frequently labeled as “just an accessory.“ In my opinion, they are much more than that, as you’re wearing them regularly, daily and you actually own them for a longer period of time. Besides, glasses are an artwork framed beautifully by the face. They highlight your eyes, one of the most important parts of your body. Your eyes help you express yourself. Having eye-contact with people is intense, as you might tell how they feel and the way they want to communicate. So, it was important to me to design a collection that is very flexible in the ways of individual presentation. There are a lot of glasses that consume you, which is the opposite of what I wanted to create. This time, I worked a lot with metals and acetate, as I think it’s a nice break in style.

It’s your second collaboration with Mister Spex, but was it difficult for you to fusion your brand’s DNAs? 

It came very naturally to me because I present the design and Mister Spex joins in on the production. I deliberately chose Misterspex as my partner. I like the way they’re distributing their products. It’s very progressive to sell glasses online with the tools they offer. 

Talk us through your creative process. Is it different than designing clothing or other accessories and how did you get into the design process?

At first I sat down and started thinking about the different models my friends and the people who surround me would wear and tried to cover a broad spectrum of models. I involved my team during the design process, and it was interesting to observe their reactions. The worst thing would’ve been if they all loved the same model. Luckily, the collection included forms for everyone, regardless of their portrayal through fashion. My goal was to create a collection that everyone can see themselves in. 

Do you have a favorite model? 

In the beginning there were more models, but we managed to cut them down to eight— and they’re all my favorites.

So there is no favorite child?

I included the line’s sunglasses in the styling of my last Atelier Michalsky collection a lot, and I love them, of course. 

What’s a piece of life advice you would give to our readers? 

That’s easy: be brave to be yourself! And never waste too much energy on the opinions others might have on you. No matter what you do, do it for yourself first. 

The Mister Spex x MICHALSKY collection is out now. Have a look at the models in the gallery above and cop it online at misterspex.com

Next up, We Interview Yamell Rodriguez On Modeling, Body-Positivity And Being A New Yorker