Paris in the names of the frames, Los Angeles at the beginning of the project, France in the work of its ateliers. AHLEM connects these places through the vision of Ahlem Manai-Platt, a designer who gives geometry, materials and finishes the task of making each frame recognisable.
The story of Ahlem Manai-Platt
When Ahlem Manai-Platt founded AHLEM in Los Angeles in 2014, she brought her Parisian roots with her. The connection remains in the names of the collection: Alexandre III, Pont des Arts, Rue Bosquet. Bridges and streets become familiar references within a project that began across the Atlantic.
From the outset, the designer chose French craftsmanship and the ambition to create eyewear that would last beyond a season. The Bauhaus is one of the brand’s stated influences: the relationship between form and function, balanced proportions and clarity of construction provide a foundation for its work.
This approach allows for very different interpretations. Substantial acetate fronts sit alongside fine metal frames, rectangles, curves and cat-eyes. Precise lines and close attention to surfaces connect them.
The work of the French ateliers
AHLEM frames are handcrafted in France in collaboration with specialist artisans, including Meilleurs Ouvriers de France. The brand works with acetate, electroplated metals and titanium, choosing different techniques and finishes to suit each design.
Polishing, bevelling and contrasts between matte and glossy surfaces all contribute to the result. A bevel is an angled cut along an edge: it changes the transition between two surfaces and the way light meets the frame. In acetate, it reveals the depth of the material; in metal, it can bring definition to a very fine outline.
This is where detail becomes tangible. You see it along the side of a temple, around the rim or as you turn a frame in your hands. Its appearance changes with the viewing angle while the overall design remains clear.
Alexandre III. The depth of acetate
Alexandre III in Petrol Light interprets the rectangular optical frame with a defined upper line and softened lower corners. Its cellulose acetate front has a visible depth; the bridge continues the shape, and small metal details mark its outer edges.
The petrol tone adds depth to the geometry. It appears rich in thicker areas, becoming more transparent towards the edges. The frame has presence on the face, with a character that also rewards closer inspection: in its colour, the cuts of the acetate and the way its parts meet.
Harpe. A cat-eye with a fine outline
In Harpe in Peony Gold, a fine metal rim traces the cat-eye shape. The upper line rises towards the outside, then meets the lower curve through clearly defined corners. The lenses occupy a generous area, with the slender rim following their shape.
The frame uses steel with palladium and 22-karat gold plating; its titanium nose pads carry laser-engraved decoration. Even a part that usually stays out of view receives careful attention. Alongside Alexandre III, Harpe shows how the relationship between thickness and material can change a frame’s expression.
Prairie. Black meets lilac
Prairie in Black / Lilac brings colour into the lenses. Its black sunglass front extends horizontally and rises at the outer edges; rounded rims and bevelled temples accompany a compact shape. Small metal details complete the design on either side.
The lilac pairing makes this version particularly distinctive. In the photographs, the transparent lenses allow the eyes to remain visible and soften the effect of the black front. Its character comes from the combination: outline, colour and eyes can be seen together.
AHLEM at OCCHIO
Alexandre III, Harpe and Prairie offer three perspectives on the brand: the depth of acetate, the fineness of metal and the meeting of a frame with a coloured lens. These elements provide a starting point for discovering which aspect of the collection feels closest to the way you dress and express yourself.
The choice comes together on the face, where proportions, support and fit matter. The AHLEM collection pages let you explore colours and different views; our frame measurement guide helps you compare models with glasses that already fit well. At the OCCHIO boutique in Crema, you can try them and see how they change with light and movement.
Discover AHLEM at OCCHIO
Sources and photography
AHLEM · Story · AHLEM · About · AHLEM · Craft & Materials
Brand history and craftsmanship are drawn from AHLEM’s official pages. Readings of shapes and colour pairings express OCCHIO’s editorial perspective. Model specifications: OCCHIO product pages. Opening photograph: AHLEM SS25 campaign; product photographs: AHLEM imagery from the OCCHIO catalogue.
