Sunglass Hut has collaborated with designer, artist and jeweller Nikita Majajas of Doodad + Fandango on a limited-edition 'Love is Love' sunglass chain ahead of Mardi Gras.
The sunglass chain, which doubles as a necklace, features glittery gold and silver stars to represent a 'we shine brighter together' ethos, Majajas said.
"My work for Sunglass Hut this year represents how we shine brighter together by standing up against hate and inequality as a collective – and spreading passion, championing equal rights and showing LGBTQIA+ pride to the world," she said.
The collaboration will see Sunglass Hut donate 15% of the sales of new frames with a Doodad + Fandango chain to charity Twenty10, which supports LGBTQIA+ through a range of services including housing, counselling, social groups and mental health support services.
Twenty10 co-executive director Jain Moralee welcomed the collaboration.
"For the last 40 years, Twenty10 have provided free, life-changing and affirming support to the community.
"We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Sunglass Hut who share our vision to empower and improve the lives of LGBTQIA+ people," she said.
The collaboration chain will be released on March 1 ahead of the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade, which takes place on March 5.
To celebrate the launch, Sunglass Hut called on Christian Wilkins, AJ Clementine, Kath Ebbs and Donny Galella to participate in a 'Love is Love' interview and photoshoot.
Sunglass Hut will also transform its George St flagship store into a hive of activity this week, hosting a number of 'Love is Love' activations.
These will include DJ sets by DJ Charlie Villas on Thursday March 3, a partnership with Messina (and a special ‘unicorn’ flavour) on Friday March 4 and make-up by Blow Bar Co on Saturday March 5, the day of the parade.
Luxottica (Sunglass Hut) marketing VP Kate Boulos said the business is proud to support the LGBTQIA+ community.
"Mardi Gras is a time to celebrate, stand united and shine brighter together – whether you’re in the parade or dancing in your living room.
"We champion individuality and celebrate the diversity of our team, wanting all people to feel valued, respected and empowered for who they are.
"Sunglass Hut is thrilled to continue our support of the LGBTQIA+ community with our collaboration with Doodad + Fandango, and the extension of our partnership with Twenty10," she said.
The Sunglass Hut x Doodad + Fandango limited-edition sunglass chain is available as a gift with purchase over $300 from selected Sunglass Hut stores.
AJ Clementine