Sightseeing in Soho
Our models, Scarlett and Amir, kindly presented the latest collection of Ed Scarlett spectacle frames and sunglasses in their natural habitat, Soho. Edward Scarlett opened his eponymous store on Dean Street in 1705, it therefore seemed appropriate to begin the day at the renowned Groucho Club, located at the same address.
Scarlett wears Carnaby Spectacles in Matt Black, and Amir wears Soho Spectacles in Havana Tortoiseshell. Groucho Club, Dean Street, Soho.
The Groucho Club was founded in 1985, drawing its membership mainly from the arts, media and entertainment industries. The club was named after Groucho Marx, who famously quipped, "I don't care to belong to any club that will have me as a member". It has an impressive collection of contemporary art, in addition to its celebrated restaurants and bars.
Scarlett wears Lowndes Spectacles in Black, and Amir wears Compton Spectacles in Caramel Tortoiseshell. Groucho Club, Dean Street, Soho.
Diagonally opposite the Grouch Club lies the entrance to Meard Street, which connects Dean Street to Wardour Street. It was developed by carpenter John Meard in the 1720s (during the time that Edward Scarlett was inventing the spectacle frame) and remains one of the last cobbled streets in London that has preserved its original architecture from the period.
Scarlett wears Carnaby Sunglasses in Matt Black, and Amir wears Soho Sunglasses in Champagne. Meard Street, Soho.
Coffee time calls for a visit to Bar Italia. This Soho institution was opened in 1946 by the Polledri family, who continue to own and operate the landmark café. The premises on 22 Frith Street are also famous for hosting John Logie Baird's first demonstration of live television on 26th January, 1926.
Scarlett wears Lowndes Sunglasses in Black, and Amir wears Portland Sunglasses in Jungle Crystal. Bar Italia, Frith Street, Soho.
Soho, after dark, continues to be one of London's principal destinations to entertain, and be entertained. Scarlett and Amir capture the spirit of the district's nightlife on Rupert Street which sits in the heart of the bright lights of London's most diverse community.
Scarlett wears Newburgh Spectacles in Brown Crystal, and Amir wears Compton Spectacles in Grey Crystal. Rupert Street, Soho.
To round the evening and complete their day in Soho, Scarlett and Amir head to the legendary Ronnie Scott's jazz club. Originally opened in basement premises on Gerard Street in 1959, the club moved to its current location at 47 Frith Street in 1965. Scott's has played host to the some of the greatest names in jazz music, and was the venue for Jimi Hendrix's final public performance in 1970.
Amir wears Compton Spectacles in Grey Crystal, and Scarlett wears Newburgh Spectacles in Brown Crystal. Ronnie Scott's, Frith Street, Soho.
Photography: Simon Clemenger