ABOUT US
THE VASUMA STORY
Get to know Vasuma and the story behind our brand. Discover how we blend classic design with modern innovation while staying true to craftsmanship, sustainability, and empowering self-expression through our eyewear
The Birth of Vasuma
2005, three friends—Jan Vana, Lars Malmsten, and Steffen Sundelius—set out on a mission to redefine the eyewear industry. They envisioned an alternative to traditional label brands, creating designs that blended vintage aesthetics with contemporary innovation. Inspired by the timeless elegance of the 1950s and 1960s, they infused their creations with modern elements and influences from popular culture. The result? Eyewear that enhances individuality and allows the wearer to express their personal style with confidence.
"THE THREE FRIENDS envisioned an alternative to traditional label brands, creating designs that blended vintage aesthetics with contemporary innovation"
OVER THE YEARS
Many initiatives and many frames have been created over the years. Some have stayed, while others have made a comeback
A Historic Home
Based in the heart of Stockholm’s Old Town, Vasuma operates from a remarkable 15th-century townhouse, just a stone’s throw from the Swedish Royal Castle. This four-story space houses the brand’s warehouse, showroom, and offices—merging history with forward-thinking design. From this unique location, Vasuma continues to push boundaries in eyewear, embracing heritage while shaping the future.
Eyewear with a Purpose
Vasuma’s collection of unisex glasses and sunglasses is more than just eyewear—it’s a statement. The brand was born from a desire to empower those who had once been ridiculed for wearing glasses. In Sweden, the term “glasögonorm” (meaning “four eyes” and also the name for the spectacled cobra snake) was often used as a childhood insult. Vasuma transformed this stigma into strength, naming each frame after a snake as a tribute to everyone who has ever been teased for their vision. In essence, Vasuma is the revenge of the ‘glasögonorm’—a symbol of confidence and self-expression.
Collaborations with Visionaries
Sweden is a hub of creativity, and Vasuma thrives on collaboration. Each season, the brand joins forces with innovative minds from various industries to craft something extraordinary. Over the years, Vasuma has partnered with renowned names such as the Save the Children Foundation, musician Daniel Adams-Ray, bag brand Sandqvist, fashion designer Carin Wester, and Swedish Deadwood. Most recently, Vasuma teamed up with celebrated Swedish architect Gert Wingårdh and his son Rasmus to launch the exclusive Vasuma Wingårdh & Wingårdh collection.
Gert Wingårdh in VW 1 Sun Ash
The Art of Craftsmanship
Vasuma is dedicated to impeccable craftsmanship, working with skilled artisans across Europe and Asia. Each frame is meticulously handcrafted, blending traditional techniques with modern innovation. By partnering with expert manufacturers, Vasuma ensures that every piece meets the highest standards of durability, functionality, and design. The result is eyewear that is not only stylish but also built to last.
"Each frame is meticulously handcrafted, blending traditional techniques with modern innovation"
Materials That Matter
At Vasuma, sustainability and quality go hand in hand. The brand is committed to using the finest, most environmentally responsible materials. Frames are crafted from premium cellulose acetate, a biodegradable material sourced from Italian manufacturer Mazzucchelli’s ‘M49’ formula and Eastman Acetate Renew—a groundbreaking sustainable innovation. Vasuma’s metal frames are forged from top-tier raw materials, including high-strength Swedish Sandvik steel and lightweight Japanese titanium. Every frame tells a story of superior craftsmanship and a dedication to sustainability. Read more about Vasuma and sutainability.
Anchoring the Future
Vasuma seamlessly blends heritage with innovation. Inspired by the anchor iron—a fundamental architectural element that binds different materials together—the brand integrates this motif into its design language. Just as the anchor iron secures and stabilizes, Vasuma’s eyewear represents the perfect fusion of tradition and modernity. By looking to the past for inspiration, Vasuma continues to shape the future of eyewear, crafting frames that are as timeless as they are forward-thinking.
A Global Presence
What began as a passion project between three friends has evolved into a globally recognized brand. Today, Vasuma eyewear is available at over 1,000 independent opticians worldwide, offering individuals everywhere the opportunity to embrace eyewear that is stylish, meaningful, and built to inspire. With a commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and self-expression, Vasuma is not just an eyewear brand—it’s a movement.