The Story Behind KREWE

KREWE was founded in New Orleans in 2013. Its beginnings were unconventional: founder Barrett invested his savings in the first collection of frames and sold sunglasses from a mobile cart attached to a bicycle at local festivals.

The brand gradually developed from this small independent venture into an eyewear label with its own stores, design studio, and international customer base.

New Orleans remains central to KREWE's identity. The city's architecture and distinctive atmosphere influence its frame designs, color combinations, and retail experiences.

One of its most recognizable styles, the ST. LOUIS, features a distinctive brow bridge inspired by the decorative wrought-iron balconies found in the French Quarter. This connection between eyewear and local architecture helps explain why KREWE's designs have such a recognizable character.

The brand also launched its optical collection in 2017, expanding beyond sunglasses into everyday prescription eyewear. 

What Makes KREWE Eyewear Different?

1. Distinctive Shapes and Artistic Colors

KREWE does not rely exclusively on traditional black or brown frames. Its collections feature expressive acetate patterns, unusual color combinations, sculptural details, and metallic finishes.

Customers can explore classic tortoise patterns, translucent colors, rich burgundy shades, soft pastels, and mirrored metallic finishes.

This design approach makes the eyewear particularly appealing to people who want their glasses to complement an outfit while also adding personality.

2. Small-Batch Production and Handcrafted Details

KREWE emphasizes small-batch manufacturing and hands-on quality control. According to its craftsmanship page, each pair undergoes an in-house 100-point inspection process.

The brand uses plant-based, cotton-derived cellulose acetate for its custom frame patterns and colorways. Its metal designs incorporate premium materials such as titanium and 24K gold-plated hardware.

Creating the brand's distinctive acetate patterns is also a detailed process. Different colors are hand-mixed and arranged to form the finished material, with some complex patterns taking between one and twelve weeks to complete. 

The brand's production process is international: frames are designed at its New Orleans headquarters, materials are sourced from Europe and Asia, and final hand assembly takes place at family-owned factories in Asia. KREWE then completes additional detailing and inspection in Louisiana. 

3. Lens Protection and Premium Finishes

KREWE's lenses are designed with everyday sun protection in mind.

The brand states that its lenses provide:

• 100% UVA and UVB protection.
• Shatter-resistant construction.
• Anti-scratch coatings.
• Anti-reflective coatings on specified lenses.
• Custom-colored lens options.

Selected models are also available with polarized lenses. KREWE describes its polarized lenses as cutting 99% of reflective light and glare, helping improve visual clarity in bright conditions.

For people who spend time driving, walking outdoors, or enjoying sunny destinations, polarized options may be particularly useful. 

Explore KREWE's Main Eyewear Collections

1. Women's Sunglasses

KREWE's women's sun collection features distinctive silhouettes, unexpected details, and a wide range of colors.

The selection includes oversized frames, rounded designs, geometric shapes, and more understated everyday styles.

Some notable models include:

• IRENE: A versatile frame offered in colors such as Blonde Venezia and Black.
• BRIGITTE: A stylish design available in expressive colors such as Gelato.
• BILLIE: A contemporary frame offered in Blush Tortoise and Bronze Metallic + Bone.
• KATE: A distinctive shape available in combinations such as 12K + Black Tea.
• LEAH: A statement-making design featuring metallic and tortoise-inspired finishes.

These styles are suitable for customers who enjoy eyewear that adds character to everyday outfits.

2. Men's Sunglasses

The men's collection combines classic silhouettes with more contemporary shapes and performance-oriented details.

Options range from aviators and rectangular frames to titanium constructions, folding designs, and polarized lenses.

Popular styles include:

• ZANDER: A modern aviator-inspired silhouette with bold lines, sculpted edges, and a distinctive dimensional finish.
• ST. LOUIS: KREWE's signature frame, recognizable for its standout brow bridge.
• BARRETT: A versatile everyday style with a clean, wearable shape.
• VINDEL: A classic option available with polarized lenses.
• BEAU NYLON: A more technical-looking design with metallic and mirrored finishes.

The men's and women's categories are useful starting points, but many KREWE styles have unisex appeal. The brand also provides fit information to help shoppers choose frames based on their actual measurements.

3. Optical Frames

KREWE's optical collection brings the same design philosophy to prescription-ready eyewear.

Instead of treating glasses purely as a functional necessity, the collection focuses on expressive frames that can become an everyday fashion accessory.

Customers can browse acetate styles, titanium frames, colorful finishes, and different frame proportions.

Selected optical frames can be fitted with prescription lenses, readers, or blue-light filtering lenses. KREWE's FAQ explains that prescription fulfillment is currently handled through its retail stores or authorized retailers rather than directly through its website. Customers should contact a local store for prescription services.

4. Titanium and Metal Frames

For customers who prefer a lighter-looking design with refined metallic details, KREWE offers frames featuring premium metals and titanium construction.

These designs can provide a different aesthetic from the brand's thicker acetate silhouettes.

The BERM, MARCEL, and LUNA models are examples of the brand's metal-focused styles, with combinations of titanium, mirrored finishes, and distinctive colors.

Some titanium frames also feature adjustable nose pads, which can help create a more personalized fit.

KREWE's Design Innovation with CHROMA

One of the brand's notable design developments is CHROMA, an exclusive convex frame construction introduced in 2025.

The design creates the visual impact of metal while keeping the construction lightweight. KREWE highlights mirrored finishes in silver, 12K gold, and 18K gold.

CHROMA is particularly interesting for shoppers who want a metallic appearance without choosing a conventional metal frame.

The technology has also been incorporated into the evolution of popular silhouettes such as ZANDER, allowing customers to explore different constructions based on a familiar frame design. 

Popular KREWE Products and Current Prices

KREWE sits in the premium eyewear category, with prices reflecting its design-focused collections, selected materials, and small-batch production.

The following examples were listed on the US website when checked on November 5, 2026. Prices are in US dollars and may vary by color, construction, lens option, and availability.

• ZANDER Black + Black Tea — $295: A bestselling unisex acetate aviator-inspired frame with bold sculptural edges.
• BARRETT Amalfi — $295: A versatile everyday sunglasses option.
• ST. LOUIS Matte Oyster 24K — $335: A signature silhouette with a distinctive brow bridge and metallic detailing.
• VINDEL English Oak Polarized — $315: A classic frame with polarized lenses.
• ST. LOUIS Gelato 24K Mirrored — $355: A colorful signature design with a mirrored metallic finish.
• DAKOTA Iberia + Haze Polarized 18K — $395: A premium combination of metallic detailing and polarized lenses.
• BEAU NYLON Black + Shadow 24K Polarized — $455: A higher-priced option featuring a metallic finish and polarized lenses.

Optical frames are also available at different prices. Examples include RAMONA Plume at $315, EDIE Matte Oyster at $335, and LUNA 12K Titanium + Bordeaux at $395.

These examples demonstrate the range of designs and pricing available rather than a complete catalog. Check the product pages for current stock and detailed specifications.

Browse the KREWE Sunglasses Collection to discover more styles.

What Makes Shopping at KREWE Worthwhile?

A More Personal Eyewear Experience

KREWE operates physical retail locations where customers can try on frames, receive complimentary adjustments, and explore selected lens customization services.

The brand describes its stores as welcoming spaces inspired by New Orleans hospitality, making them more than simply places to purchase sunglasses.

Its retail locations also offer an opportunity to compare different frame sizes and shapes in person.

Frame Customization and Fit Guidance

Choosing eyewear online can be challenging, especially when frame proportions vary.

KREWE provides a dedicated fit guide that categorizes frames into narrow, average, and wide fits. Product pages also include measurements such as bridge width, eye size, and temple length.

Customers can use these details to compare frames with a pair they already own.

Selected frames can also be adjusted through KREWE stores to improve the fit. Custom lens options include polarized lenses, prescription options, and vanity tints.

The Second Chances Replacement Program

One of KREWE's distinctive customer benefits is its Second Chances program.

Eligible full-price frames purchased from KREWE or an authorized retailer qualify for one initial replacement if they are accidentally damaged or broken. A domestic shipping and handling fee of $14.99 applies to online replacements; in-store replacements do not have this fee.

The brand also offers a paid lifetime replacement program for qualifying frames after the initial replacement or for certain discounted purchases.

There are important exclusions: lost or stolen eyewear is not covered, and products discounted by 40% or more are not eligible for the replacement programs. Customers should register their frames and read the warranty conditions before purchasing. 

Shipping and Returns

For US customers, KREWE's shipping policy provides complimentary two-day shipping and free returns on domestic orders of $255 or more.

Orders are generally shipped the next business day, excluding weekends and holidays. Custom blue-light, reader, and vanity lens orders require additional processing time.

KREWE provides a 30-day return or exchange window, but eligibility depends on the discount:

• Full-price frames: Eligible for a return or exchange.
• Less than 10% off: Eligible for a full return.
• 10%–39% off: Exchange only.
• 40% off or more: Final sale, with no return or exchange.

Custom-cut lenses may have additional restrictions. Review the official Shipping Policy and Sale and Returns Policy before ordering.

How to Shop Smart at KREWE

Luxury eyewear is an investment, so it helps to choose carefully.

Start with your preferred shape. Consider whether you prefer aviators, rectangular frames, rounded silhouettes, or more sculptural designs.

Check your fit. Use the brand's narrow, average, and wide fit categories, along with the measurements on individual product pages.

Compare lens options. Standard, polarized, mirrored, and custom-colored lenses offer different appearances and functional features.

Consider optical compatibility. If you need prescription glasses, confirm that your chosen frame is prescription-ready and ask a KREWE store or authorized retailer about lens fulfillment.

Review sale conditions. Discounts of 40% or more may mean final-sale status and the loss of return and replacement benefits. A lower price may not be the best choice if you need flexibility.

Take advantage of shipping benefits. US orders of $255 or more qualify for complimentary two-day shipping and free returns under the published policy.

Check cashback availability. Before checking out, search for KREWE on your preferred cashback platform. Rates and eligibility vary, so confirm the current offer directly with that platform.

Final 

KREWE brings a distinctive New Orleans perspective to modern eyewear. Its collections combine expressive acetate patterns, sculptural silhouettes, premium metals, and lens technology, creating sunglasses and optical frames that feel personal rather than generic.

From the iconic ST. LOUIS and bestselling ZANDER to the innovative CHROMA construction and refined titanium designs, KREWE offers a wide variety of styles for customers who appreciate individuality and thoughtful detailing.

The brand's small-batch production, 100-point inspection process, fit guidance, in-store services, and Second Chances program further distinguish its shopping experience.

If you are looking for eyewear that combines practical sun protection with distinctive design, KREWE is well worth exploring.

Visit KREWE to discover the latest sunglasses, optical frames, and accessories.