Exquisite design and innovative approach

Inspired by the architecture, energy, and effortlessly undone éclat of the people of Paris, AHLEM is an ongoing exploration of eyewear that wonderfully mingles the understated elegance of Parisian style with the laid-back nature of Venice Beach.

Parisian-born, Los Angeles-based designer, Ahlem Manai-Platt launched AHLEM in 2014 after years designing in the Parisian fashion scene. Her career move into eyewear was first sparked among friends at a Paris café who reacted excitedly to her sketches. The loss of a beloved pair of vintage sunglasses shortly thereafter gave her the final push and the brand was born.

What materialized were nine handmade frames in cool, chic shapes all rendered in Italian Mazzucchelli acetate. Now, five years strong—with one store on Abbot Kinney and another Downtown LA, as well as recognition from the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund—AHLEM is planted firmly in the future with an ever-evolving collection of trend-agnostic eye and sunglasses.

AHLEM is committed to quality craftsmanship, first and foremost.

Throughout production, glasses travel to three specialized ateliers, and into the hands of nine skilled artisans—each with a particular craft passed down through the generations.

Acetate is sourced directly from Mazzucchelli, the world's heritage house. Metal frames are made of palladium, electroplated in 22k gold, and feature hand-engraved titanium nose pads for optimal comfort and support.

Cridal lenses that offer UVA/UVB protection with built-in backside anti-reflective coating come from leading French optical company, Christian Dalloz. And vintage acetate used to accent metal temples is handpicked in France by Manai-Platt herself.

And while AHLEM's identity is deeply rooted in the City of Light—styles are named for Paris' most innovative buildings, historic squares, neighborhoods, and hubs—the true origin lies in the City of Angels, where the designer, her creative studio, and two retail stores are based.

Visit AHLEM the next time you’re on the Blvd and admire the unique designs and outstanding craftsmanship of their eyewear.

AHLEM Eyewear
1121 Abbot Kinney Blvd