It’s no secret that great style often originates in invention. Persol, which celebrates 100 years of optical excellence this year, is no exception. In 1917, optician Giuseppe Ratti began making technically advanced goggles for pilots and drivers. They were soon embraced by military pilots and motor racers due to the comfort, protection and optimum vision provided. It was the brand’s foray into sunglasses during the 1930s that led to its name, Persol, from ‘per il sole’, ‘for the sun’.

Today this innovative excellence can still be seen across Persol’s collections, with signature details including lenses made from the purest crystal, flexible Meflecto stems and the iconic silver arrow connecting arm and frame. Persol’s consistent technological advances and distinctive design have kept it at the top of the eyewear game for the past century. Persol has something outstanding to suit all eyes. persol.com

All Persol, available from Sunglass Hut (0844 264 0860) sunglasshut.com.

Fashion provided by Ralph Lauren; ralphlauren.co.uk