Callula focuses on stylish sunglasses with ‘petite fit’ ALEESHA HARRIS
Not all faces are the same, that’s something we can all attest to.
So, why are most eyewear options seemingly designed to fit one, same-sized face?
It’s a question Toronto designer Nerissa Jawanda kept asking herself whenever she set about to find the perfect pair of glasses for her petite face. Continually coming up empty-handed during her search, Jawanda decided to create her own brand of glasses designed for people with a similar shopping struggle. And Callula Co. was the result.
We caught up with Jawanda to learn more.
Q For those who aren’t familiar, what is Callula Co.?
A Callula Co. is a premium line of petite sunglasses. We specialize in lightweight, fitted sunglasses that are retro-inspired. We put quality craftsmanship first, that’s why our sunglasses are handcrafted using only the best materials. Our lenses are optical grade and 100 per cent UV protected.
Q How did the company come about?
A Callula Co. started with a simple question from my boyfriend on a sunny day in Toronto: “How come you never wear sunglasses?” The truth was, I had always struggled to find sunglasses that were flattering on me. The simple answer was: “They look bad on me.”
Amused, and not quite convinced, he insisted we shop.
After trying on dozens of pairs he could see what I meant. Everything I tried on was too big or bulky, leading to an awkward fit. He encouraged me to pursue a solution. I knew my mom hated all her sunglasses. I called some friends and many of them had a similar problem or knew someone who did. It wasn’t just me and my mom!
I launched Callula Co. with the goal to make stylish, premium sunglasses that offer a petite fit.
Q Is there a story behind the name?
A The name Callula comes from Latin, meaning “small beauty.”
Q What makes it different from other eyewear brands?
A Our focus is petite-fit eyewear. Our mission is to make you look great and feel confident in sunglasses that show more of your face. Callula Co. is also online-first and independent. We are proudly woman-owned and operated, working with talented women for product design, photography, manufacturing, and everything in between.
Q Who is the target customer? A Initially our target was millennial women, but since launch we’ve seen interest from this demographic and beyond. Although our sunglasses are designed with women in mind, they are absolutely unisex. Whether you have a narrow face and struggle to find sunglasses that complement you, or just prefer more fitted eyewear, Callula Co. has something for you.