Page Information
You are reading Since 1980.
Since 1980
Posted on December 29th, 2009 by mozz.
Categories: Uncategorized.
For three decades, Garry and Sharon Hapton have watched fashion evolve from under the roof of The Brass Monocle…
As the owners of one of Canada’s most unique, innovative eyewear boutiques, Garry and Sharon have a gift for taking glasses beyond the domain of necessity and into the realm of style and elegance. In the 1980s, Calgary was in its infancy as a cosmopolitan city. The idea that eyewear could be at once an essential part of daily life as well as fashion-forward wardrobe accessory was still a foreign concept in most cities outside of Europe. At that time, however, Garry was confident that this prairie town would grow into a culture of its own. Once it became apparent that Mount Royal would be Calgary’s epicentre of growth and transformation, he and Sharon could think of no-better place in which to establish their novel business. With the economic boom of the 1990s, Calgarians began to turn their gaze toward international trends, embracing the type of cutting-edge style that Garry and Sharon had now been fostering at The Brass Monocle for the past 10 years. Since then, this mecca of eyewear has continued to thrive and supply sought-after styles to Calgary’s evolved fashion scene.
In making a name for themselves in the world of eyewear suppliers, the Haptons introduced their customers to a range of high-end specs never before available in Western Canada. Garry and Sharon devoted themselves to sharing both their extensive knowledge and uninhibited passion with each individual who came to The Brass Monocle in search of a new standard in eyewear. With each season came fresh trends, which the Haptons made sure to capture with every featured collection. Traveling to design exhibits in Paris, New York and Milan, the pair ensure The Brass Monocle remains known for quality eyewear imported from the hot-spots of avant-garde style. Furthermore, Garry and Sharon, along with their staff of opticians, keep up-to-date with each new technology, exploring different lens options and various frame designs. Never putting the luxury of a label before the quality of the brand, Garry and Sharon have achieved success through their pursuit of superior, well-made product that is simultaneously chic and contemporary.
Much of the work that Garry and Sharon put in behind the scenes is matched by the dedicated staff comprising The Brass Monocle’s extended family. Through teamwork and collaboration, their ability to connect to customers on a personal level has made devotees out of casual shoppers, creating a loyal following for both The Brass Monocle and the brands they carry. As entrepreneurs, the Haptons have provided a new lens through which to see the endless possibilities of high-fashion eyewear. As they enter their thirtieth year in business, Garry and Sharon cannot help but feel extremely privileged to be running what some would argue is now a Calgary institution.
“We’ve been around long enough to see our customers bring in their kids and we are so proud and fortunate to have that experience” – Sharon Hapton
Remember, eyes are the windows to the soul – why not dress them up a little and make the view just that much better?
Comments Off