This season at New York Fashion Week, striking eyewear was front and center, particularly in the collections of fashion houses like Luar and Anna Sui. The bold, futuristic sunglasses showcased on Luar’s Spring 2025 runway were the work of Fellow Earthlings, a Canadian eyewear brand founded by Sydney and Christopher Seggie. Based in Prince Edward Island, this boutique label has quickly gained recognition as the go-to designer for high-fashion, custom-made eyewear that blends bold aesthetics with sustainability.
From Licensed Eyewear to a Creative Vision
Before launching Fellow Earthlings in 2015, the couple spent years working in Hong Kong and London managing licensed eyewear products. However, the creative limitations of the corporate world left them craving something more artistic. After returning to Canada, they began experimenting with eyewear manufacturing, ultimately building their own in-house studio. Their creations, made from recycled acetates, have since attracted global attention. By repurposing manufacturing waste, they’re able to create custom sunglasses in unique colors and textures, making their designs both innovative and eco-friendly.
Sustainability at the Core
One of the key features of Fellow Earthlings’ eyewear is their commitment to sustainability. By using recycled materials, the brand reduces waste while maintaining high-quality craftsmanship. In the typical eyewear manufacturing process, nearly 80% of acetate slabs are discarded. Fellow Earthlings repurposes this waste, creating entirely custom materials that allow for daring experimentation with thickness and color. Their approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also results in truly one-of-a-kind pieces.
Runway Collaborations with Luar and Anna Sui
The turning point for Fellow Earthlings came when Anna Sui tapped the brand for her Spring 2022 collection, launching their presence on the international runway scene. The cloud-inspired pastel shades they crafted for Sui quickly became iconic, a whimsical response to the need for lightheartedness during the pandemic lockdown.
Their partnership with Luar, however, has truly solidified Fellow Earthlings as a must-watch brand in the fashion world. For Luar’s Spring 2024 show, they designed exaggerated sunglasses that doubled as masks—a trend embraced by celebrities like Solange and Doja Cat. This year, the duo continued their collaboration with Luar, crafting bold black marble acetate shields for the Spring 2025 runway. Inspired by the punk glam movement of the late 1990s, these futuristic designs were not only a hit on the catwalk but were also spotted on Madonna in the front row, adding to the brand’s rising star status.
Innovative Designs and Cultural Influence
Fellow Earthlings has a knack for creating eyewear that transcends traditional sunglasses, turning each pair into a statement piece. Whether it's oversized, avant-garde designs or intricate details inspired by art and history, their eyewear reflects a deep understanding of cultural movements and fashion trends. With their craftsmanship on display at New York Fashion Week, it’s no surprise that high-fashion designers continue to flock to them for exclusive collaborations.
What’s Next for Fellow Earthlings?
As Fellow Earthlings continues to grow, their focus remains on pushing the boundaries of design while maintaining their commitment to sustainable production. Their journey from managing licensed eyewear to becoming the designers of choice for runway collaborations is a testament to their passion for creativity and craftsmanship. The brand’s future looks bright as they explore new materials, experiment with bold ideas, and continue to turn heads on the world’s biggest fashion stages.