In the face of uncertainty during lockdown, a prominent Toronto-based makeup artist, hair stylist, and content creator Meghan Victoria, embarked on a unique journey that would transform the eyewear industry. Drawing from her extensive background in the beauty world, Meghan recognized a gap in the market for sunglasses that not only fit wider faces but also celebrated and flattered their unique features, thus, Sol Kyst was born.
The Birth of Sol Kyst: A Vision for Inclusivity
Founded in 2021, Sol Kyst emerged as an inclusive Canadian eyewear brand dedicated to serving a niche that had long been overlooked. Meghan’s vision was clear: to design sunglasses that not only functioned seamlessly for wider faces but also made a bold fashion statement, instilling confidence and beauty in the wearers.
In our interview with Meghan, she shared the evolution of the brand’s name. Originally conceived as ‘sunkissed,’ a nod to her signature bronzed and glowy makeup style, Meghan later rebranded as ‘Sol Kyst,’ the Swedish translation of ‘sun-kissed.’ This change paid homage to her Swedish background and extended a warm embrace to the wider-faced Scandinavian community – many of which are customers.
Crafting Beauty Through Thoughtful Design
Meghan’s experience as a makeup artist played a pivotal role in the design process. She employed techniques from her beauty career, using line work to create the illusion of a chiselled jawline and accentuating cheekbones. Sol Kyst was not just about widening standard measurements; it was a thoughtful crafting of features associated with wider faces, making the brand a beacon for ‘wide-face babes.’
After unveiling the prototype on social media, the response was overwhelming. A single video generated 120,000 views, translating into over $10,000 in orders within the first 24 hours. This enthusiastic reception affirmed that Sol Kyst had struck a chord with an underserved market.
Beyond Standard: Quality and Sustainability
Sol Kyst frames are crafted from acetate, a superior material known for its durability, longevity, lightweight feel, and comfort. The lenses, made from nylon, offer superior optical quality, emphasizing Sol Kyst’s commitment to providing a greener and higher-quality alternative to traditional plastic lenses.
From Local Recognition to Global Expansion
The brand gained further traction after a noteworthy appearance on CBC’s Dragon’s Den. Sol Kyst accepted a deal to partner with Michele Romanow, propelling the company into a phase of global expansion. The mission remains the same: to redefine size inclusivity in eyewear and create a community that celebrates the diverse beauty of wider faces.
Sol Kyst stands as a testament to Meghan Victoria’s vision and dedication, proving that thoughtful design, inclusivity, and quality craftsmanship can seamlessly converge in the world of eyewear. As it continues to expand its reach, it is not just about sunglasses, but rather empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty and face the world with confidence.
Learn more about Sol Kyst and the different styles available on their website here.
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