Gold defies downturn

As a result of increases in sales of its gold optical frames, Dunelm Optical will add a number of precious metal frames into next year's collections.

The company has seen a 20 per cent rise in demand for gold women's frames in past six months alone. Director Peter Beaumont said: 'Silver and gold frames have perennial appeal, which is why they make up over 15 per cent of our entire metal optical portfolio. Recently we've noticed a marked difference in the orders that have been coming in.

'With the trend for jewellery inspired designs still prominent, we predict that ladies are increasingly matching their eyewear to their jewellery for maximum effect. We'll be capitalising on this in the spring summer collections.'