Anna-Karin Karlsson: Sunglasses made for icons

From a quiet forest outside Stockholm to the world’s most glamorous runways, Swedish designer Anna-Karin Karlsson has built one of fashion’s most distinctive eyewear brands. Her bold, sculptural glasses and sunglasses are worn by Beyoncé, Snoop Dogg, Madonna and Elton John – yet their inspiration comes from a quiet life surrounded by trees and animals.

Cultural journalist Anna Åkerlund steps inside Karlsson’s world. We discover how the designer blends fantasy with craftsmanship, and challenges the conventions of both global luxury brands and Swedish restraint. As Karlsson explains, she doesn't always follow seasonal fashion calendars; instead, she completes each collection only when it feels ready.

Across three encounters we follow Anna-Karin to her woodland home, her city studio where sketches become intricate frames, and finally to Paris as her latest creations go on display. Along the way, the designer reflects on her journey from a small town in Sweden to a global stage, her all-female team, and her work ethic.

This intimate portrait reveals a woman who sees glasses not as accessories, but as expressions of personality and power. Through her story, we explore how nature, creativity and grit have helped her reshape what it means to see – and be seen – wearing her iconic frames.

A Podlit AB Production.