The Olsen twins set sights on eyewear with a new range of sunglasses

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have been working with luxury Hong Kong manufacturer Absolute Black to design a new range of sunglasses. The line is currently limited to just two pairs for a November launch to coincide with resort 2010, but will be expanding to a full line of several styles for Spring 2011. Reflecting their very New York sensibility, the styles are named Hudson, a modern take on the classic aviator, and Fairfax, a feline retro frame, both in sleek black acetate with glints of gold. Their launch marks the first time that the designer/sibling duo have set their sights on eyewear, following various forays into fashion, and Ashley Olsen this week spoke of her excitement "to elevate Elizabeth and James with the addition of eyewear." The pair worked with Absolute Black from across the globe, with design summits held by Skype; a unique approach that seems to have paid off, with plans for a much wider range of frames, plus rumours of a handbag line and standalone stores in the coming months.

Elizabeth and James eyewear will be available in Harvey Nichols from November.