Make room for a little surprise.

theo has a cheerful willingness to stand out. The Belgian brand grew from opticians Wim Somers and Patrick Hoet’s desire to make frames for their own stores and customers. Antwerp’s fashion culture helped encourage that leap, and the connection between an inventive design and the person wearing it has remained central to the story.

In a September 2026 Eyebook interview, Mik, Jan and Toon Somers described the family brand through the idea of human connection. A frame, and the compliment it might prompt, can change the feeling of a day. They also spoke about refining prototypes repeatedly and returning to color combinations in the archives. The playfulness is supported by patient work.

That balance makes theo worth trying even if you think of yourself as a cautious glasses wearer. A surprising color might be more flattering than expected. An unconventional line can feel natural once it meets your expression. Approach the collection with a little openness, and compare what the frames do on your face instead of deciding in advance which kinds of glasses are for you.