Love Calls from Overseas Celebrities Never Stop: Paris-Born Eyewear Brand 'AHLEM'

In recent fashion trends, particularly in the luxury industry, the demand for eyewear has been increasing. A few years ago, eyewear was predominantly seen as an accessory to complement fashion, but recently, brands have started collaborating with traditional ateliers, resulting in collections that are not only stylish but also of high quality.
 
This brings us to 'AHLEM'.
 
Launched in 2014 by Ahlem Manai Platt, AHLEM is an eyewear brand based in LA and Paris. Known for its elegant and sophisticated designs handcrafted by skilled artisans, the eyewear combines exceptional comfort, capturing the hearts of fashionistas and eyewear enthusiasts.
 
In this interview, we delve into Ahlem’s passion for AHLEM, her career journey, her approach to craftsmanship, and her vision for the future.

Can you tell us about the journey that led you to start the brand?

First, I need to talk about my childhood. I grew up in the 7th arrondissement of Paris. Being surrounded by wonderful historical buildings like the Musée d'Orsay, the Eiffel Tower, and Les Invalides naturally fostered my aesthetic sense.
 
I also spent some time in Tunisia, where I was deeply influenced by the lifestyle there. I was close to many artisans who treated me like family, witnessing their exceptional craftsmanship firsthand. The blend of elegance from Paris and the artisanal focus from Tunisia formed the core principles behind AHLEM.
 
When I founded the brand in 2014, I felt eyewear was the ideal medium to materialize my vision. Thus, I immediately contacted French eyewear factories due to the high quality and special touch of French-made products. AHLEM embodies the delicate techniques unique to French artisans.

How many countries are you currently operating in?

Our headquarters are in Los Angeles, Amsterdam, and Paris, with stores in Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Paris. We are also sold in 500 specialized eyewear stores across Europe, Asia, America, Australia, and the Middle East. From the start, we have been a very global company, opening doors to the international market even before launching our first collection.

What was the turning point for your business?

I believe it was the unique functional beauty of AHLEM and its timeless design that attracted people. Fortunately, the initial response was overwhelmingly positive, and even in France, Colette (a popular Parisian select shop that closed in 2017) accepted our first collection right away.
 
Moreover, without the support of partners, the press, and influential figures who believed in our vision, AHLEM wouldn’t be where it is today. Now, AHLEM is loved by many celebrities, including LeBron James, Natalie Portman, Jennifer Aniston, Lewis Hamilton, and Seth Rogen.

The Goal is to Always Transcend Time

You originally worked in the apparel industry. Why did you shift to the eyewear industry?

It was really a perfect timing. For me, eyewear always held a sacred meaning, something I adored and collected since childhood.
 
One day, while chatting with a friend over coffee in Paris about our future goals, I lost a pair of beloved vintage sunglasses. Since lost items don't return, I decided to create my own favorite pair, leading to the creation of AHLEM. While this isn’t the entire story, it was a significant turning point for me.