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This year, Haine & Smith Opticians proudly celebrates 50 years of caring for eyes and celebrating style. Since our very first practice opened in 1975, we’ve witnessed half a century of changing fashions, evolving technology and shifting attitudes towards eyewear.

From bold statement frames to sustainable materials, eyewear has transformed from a medical necessity into one of fashion’s most powerful accessories. However, one thing has remained constant: Haine & Smith’s commitment to expert care, friendly services, and helping every patient look and feel their best.

Join us as we take a stylish stroll through the decades, celebrating 50 years of eyewear, eye care, and everything in between.

The 1970s - Bold beginnings

The 1970s were all about individuality and self-expression, and eyewear was no exception. Think oversized frames, warm amber tones and glamorous influence of stars like Jackie O and Elton John.

When Haine & Smith first opened its doors, these bold looks were everywhere. Glasses weren’t just a practice anymore; they were fashionable. And as we welcomed our first patients, our goal was crystal clear: to deliver exceptional eye care while helping every person feel confident in their own style.

It was the decade that shaped our values. Care, community, and commitment to seeing things differently.

The 1980s - Power and personality

If the 70s were all about freedom, the 80s were about impact. Big hair, bright colours, and confident frames defined the decade. From angular shapes to neon accents, eyewear became an extension of personality.

As Haine & Smith grew across the region, so did our understanding of what our patients wanted. Glasses there didn't just fit their prescription, but their lifestyle. Behind the scenes, lens technology was improving too, with lighter, more comfortable materials becoming the new standard.

It was a time of transformation, and Haine & Smith was right there, helping our communities embrace eyewear as both a statement and a science.

The 1990s - Sleek, simple and sophisticated

Here comes the 90s! This decade brought minimalism and sleek style to the forefront. Out went neon, in came metal rims, fine lines, and understated elegance. Think slim oval shapes and subtle silver tones. The eyewear equivalent of the little black dress.

For Haine & Smith, this was a decade of refinement; our practices became synonymous with professionalism, clinical precision, and modern design. We embraced new diagnostic tools and cutting-edge eye health technology, while continuing to help patients find eyewear that felt effortlessly stylish.

Because of us, clear vision and great design have always gone hand in hand (or lens in frame?!).

The 2000s - Designer chic and digital vision

The new millennium arrived with a love for luxury. Designer frames from the likes of Gucci, Tom Ford, and Ray-Ban dominated, turning glasses into true fashion accessories.

We were able to embrace this exciting chapter, expanding our collections and ensuring our patients could experience high-end fashion, alongside trusted local care.

Suddenly, your glasses weren't just a part of your look; they made your look. It was also the dawn of the digital age. As screens became a huge part of our daily lives, Haine & Smith introduced innovative lenses and coatings to help protect against digital eye strain, keeping style and eye health perfectly balanced.

The 2010s - A vintage revival

Fashion has a funny way of coming full circle, and the 2010s proved it. From retro cat-eyes to round Lennon-style frames, vintage style was back, and many of the collections available at Haine & Smith celebrated the very best of then and now.

This decade was about personalisation. Glasses are an extension of who you are, your mood, confidence and lifestyle. With expert advice and bespoke fittings, Haine & Smith guided patients through the process of finding frames that truly suited them, blending comfort, quality and personality in equal measure. The 2010s also deepened our commitment to sustainability and choice, setting the stage for a new era of conscious eyewear.

The 2020s - Sustainability and self-expression

So far in the 2020s, eyewear isn’t just about how you look; it’s about what you stand for, and how you show yourself to the world. Eco-friendly materials, ethical production and innovative design are at the very heart of today’s collections.

We’re proud to offer frames that are not only beautifully crafted but responsibly made. From recycled materials to lightweight titanium, many of our collections reflect both fashion’s future and our patients’ values.

Paired with state-of-the-art digital eye examinations and advanced lens technology, today’s eyewear offers the perfect mix of sustainability, comfort and self-expression.

50 years of caring for eyes, and looking good doing it!

From the statement of the 70s to the sustainable designs of today, Haine & Smith has proudly been part of your eyewear story for five decades.

We’ve seen trends come and go, but our promise has always remained the same. To deliver exceptional eye care, stylish eyewear, and a personal touch that makes every visit special.

As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we want to say thank you to our patients, our dedicated teams, and the communities that have supported us all these years.

Here’s to 50 years of clearer vision, timeless fashion, and local care, and to seeing what the next 50 will bring.

Celebrate 50 years with Haine & Smith! Pop into your local practice to explore our latest collections, book your next eye test, and join us in celebrating half a century of style and eye care excellence.

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