It’s a tradition through December to take a stroll down memory lane and reflect on the past twelve months. There are lists everywhere – top 100 CDs, books, films you must see…….but what were we looking through and at in eyewear through 2009?

The year has thrown up some unexpected trends, plus a few safe bets for the credit crunched amongst us. We began in January with small plastics, bright berry colours, and a move away from the minimalist trends of the past. Was this a kick against austere times? We plumped for brights, detail, bling: and bold was beautiful.

As the economic climate worsened, we got serious about the workplace and fighting for jobs. Studious was in and Geek chic was everywhere, with Lily Allen and Peaches Geldof leading the trend in oversized, NHS reject heavy specs. Popular in any colour as long as it was black! This is a classic look that doesn’t date, so was perfect for investment dressing.

Peaches Geldorf in her Heavy Black Specs

As summer failed to cheer us up, eyewear went to the other extreme, and subtle nude colours and bright whites were everywhere. This lifted our complexions, added translucent beauty to match our floaty clothes, and hinted at optimism as the recession evened out a little.

For men the look was chunky, and we saw metals with wide frames, thick plastic sides, and broad temples. Colours became a little heavier too, and for the first time in many years plastics, including the boy’s version of Geek, was back in.

Autumn led us to the International shows, and predictions for 2010. Eyewear has supersized – larger frames than we’ve seen for a decade, in cartoon colours and garish matt finishes. A bold fashion statement that will cheer us in the New Year – so bring on the big and beautiful!