About Bvlgari Sunglasses

Bvlgari (or Bulgari, as it is spelled in the familiar), is synonymous with luxury and fashion. Seen on the wrists, lapels and necks of the elite since the 19th century, the Bulgari brand represents fashion and indulgence. Recently, the line once famous for exclusively jewelry has started its hand in fragrance, neckties, sunglasses and even hotels.

History

Bulgari was founded in 1884 in Rome, Italy by Greek jeweler and silversmith Sotirios Voulgaris. The company is still largely a family business, run still by the Bulgari family (Bulgari being a derivative of their original name of Voulgaris). The first successful shop was opened in Rome on via Sistina. The flagship store was opened in 1905 on via dei Condotti. The Bulgaris are known for their humanity as well as their jewelry: they hid three Jewish women during the Holocaust in their Roman home and are honored in the Righteous Among the Nations at Yad Vashem.

The First Bulgari Creations

The first creations out of this powerhouse of couture was jewelry. Later, it expanded to watches and other such accessories including sunglasses. However, the house is still quite known for its watches which are often duplicated and sold as replicas at discount prices, causing millions of dollars in loss for the Bulgari Empire. In the 1950s, the Bulgari Empire states that it started to come "into its own" and create newer designs.

The Last 20 Years

Bulgari kept a standard of excellence over the 1970s and 1980s, opening up stores in Paris and New York. In the 1990s, it created its first collection of neckties and silk scarves. But it wasn't until 1998 that it launched its first eyewear collection (along with a collection of leather goods). In 2004, Bulgari opened its first hotel, a luxury five-star resort (partnering with Marriott), further expanding its brand.

The Eyewear Collection

After introducing the luxe collection of eyewear in 1998, Bulgari has been successfully creating eyewear to be seen on the faces of the rich and famous ever since. Currently, Bulgari creates only sunglasses and has no plans to expand to a prescription brand like many couture houses have done. The Bulgari brand has sunglasses that suits every personal style of taste and adds a touch of class to any outfit. From embellished shades to classic aviators, the current collection boasts over 47 different styles for both men and women.

Price Point

Bulgari sunglasses (and the other luxe items) are sold in Bulgari stores worldwide. They are also featured in such luxury department stores as Bloomingdales and Saks Fifth Avenue. They fancy shades can set a prospective buyer back about $400, but some claim its well worth it. Just like the watches, however, they are often imitated (but of course, never duplicated). Only authorized Bulgari dealers will sell these stunners, at a hefty price.