Community has become an enduring buzzword for brands seeking to foster customer loyalty and grow through word-of-mouth endorsements. Freckle Eyewear is no different, proudly marking 10 years of trading, surviving, and thriving as a Black woman-owned business in South Africa. Rooted in the spirit of African excellence and luxury experiences, Freckle Eyewear has not only offered the finest designer sunglasses styles but has also actively opened doors for young people, creating employment opportunities and pathways for growth.
Founded by Lihle Lamola, Freckle Eyewear was born from a vision that economic participation is vital to Africa’s story — and from a passion for unique designer sunglasses straight off the international runway. Today, Freckle Eyewear continues to blend global designer brands like TOM FORD, LOEWE, CARTIER with local opportunity, demonstrating that luxury can stand tall anywhere in the world.
Over the past decade, the business has steadily expanded, with growth supported partly by strategic partnerships with other local high-end boutiques and the utilisation of content creators and influencers. By building a trusted name while mentoring and employing young people meaningfully, from staff members to agency partners who are youth-owned businesses.
Weathering storms with resilience
When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted industries across the continent, Freckle Eyewear leaned into innovation and community support by ensuring their clients still received service through sourcing unique, exclusive pieces, prioritising staff well-being, and continuing to serve customers amid uncertainty — reflecting the resilience typical of Africa’s entrepreneurs.
“As a Black woman in business, I carry the hopes of generations who have fought for access and dignity,” shares Lihle Lamola. “Reaching this 10-year milestone is not just a personal celebration but a collective victory that demonstrates what is possible when we build, together.”
Creating opportunities for the next generation
Over the past decade, Freckle Eyewear has created employment for over 50 young people, equipping them with skills, mentorship, and professional exposure within the high-end retail sector.
Lihle Lamola is a visionary and strategic leader with over 20 years of experience in business development and more than a decade in executive leadership roles, mainly within the retail sector. A talented entrepreneur and accomplished businesswoman, she is the founding managing director of Freckle Eyewear and has business interest in logistics and manufacturing industries.
“For us, it was never just about selling sunglasses, we are in the business of selling luxury experiences,” says Ms Lamola.
Stepping into the next chapter
• As we enter our next decade, Freckle Eyewear remains committed to expanding its impact across the continent. Plans are in motion for domestic store expansion and new brand collaborations introducing dedicated Freckle Eyewear homes to showcase our latest collections while deepening partnerships that support sustainable growth and shared prosperity in Africa’s luxury retail space.
The 10-year milestone was celebrated on 28th June 2025, gathering partners, customers, staff, media and influencers who have been part of the journey. The enchanting evening commenced with a sundowner reception, where we savoured a selection of handcrafted cocktails by Don Julio as the sun sets in a breath-taking display of colours.
Following this, we went to indulge in a sumptuous sit-down dinner featuring a gourmet menu meticulously crafted by a local culinary chef, trained by a Michelin-awarded chef.
