Behind The Brand: Davon Ford of In Search Of

In our exclusive interview with Davon Ford, the visionary behind Baltimore's renowned vintage eyewear retailer, In Search Of, and co-host of the popular Loose Laces sneaker and lifestyle podcast, we delve into his fascinating journey in the vintage luxury eyewear industry. With an impressive background that includes serving as Head of Customer Service at Corey Shapiro's iconic Vintage Frames Company and Creative Director of True Vintage Miami, Davon's expertise is unmatched.

During our conversation, Davon opens up about his entry into the industry, sharing the pivotal moments and experiences that shaped his career. He reflects on what sets In Search Of apart from other retailers, emphasizing the store's unique curation of vintage eyewear that combines style, quality, and a touch of nostalgia.

As a successful entrepreneur, Davon also imparts valuable words of wisdom for aspiring business owners. From the importance of staying true to your vision to the significance of building genuine connections with customers, he provides insightful advice for those looking to make their mark in the industry.

Don't miss out on this inspiring interview with Davon Ford, where he shares his passion for vintage eyewear, the story behind In Search Of, and his invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Read on to discover the man behind the brand and gain a fresh perspective on the world of vintage luxury eyewear.

What inspired you to start your store, In Search Of?

I was always inspired by my want for more and need to share what I thought was cool. I have a deep appreciation for “cool things” and this is my way to share them with them world.

Can you tell us about your experience in the luxury vintage eyewear industry?

My experience in the vintage eyewear game has been phenomenal. In a lot of industries, it’s cutthroat and people are stepping over each other to get to the top. But in the vintage market, we’re all about sharing knowledge, helping each other find frames, and showing love. I started in this industry when I was 18 years old and so many older heads gave me the guidance I needed. Only time things might get heated is if we’re all gunning for a certain model but otherwise it’s nothing but love.

How do you source the stock for your luxury eyewear collection?

Now you know I can’t tell you that [laughs]. But I’ll say I have a vast network and have my eyes on everything.

Are there any particular eyewear brand or designers that you are drawn to? Why?

That’s a hard one to answer. My interests change like the weather. One minute I’m in love with Cartier’s elegant shapes. Next I’m losing my shit over a Casanova frame that’s shaped like the McDonald’s arches. But if I had to pick, I’ll always love Dior, Playboy, and Cazal. Those are always special in my heart. Dior and Playboy were produced by Carerra using a special material named Optyl. It’s ultra lightweight and retains its shape no matter how bent it is once it’s heated. They went crazy with their designs in the 70s and 80s. Making some of the most fantastical yet wearable shapes I’ve ever seen. I’m still discovering amazing models that time has forgotten.

And Cazal needs no introduction. The ultimate cool frame in my eyes. Cari Zalloni did magic with his brand. I’m blown away that one man could make 9 different series of frames and fill each one with bangers. The 600 series is still the pinnacle of eyewear design 40+ years later. I love them so much that I named my son after the brand. Much like the brand, the kid has his own original style.

What criteria do you use to select the eyewear pieces for your collection?

I don’t have a science to my selection, I go with my gut. I look at a frame and think about how cool it’d look on me or someone else. If it can’t pass the cool test I pass on it. Because ultimately who wants a boring bland frame? I want my clients to feel cool and look great.

How do you ensure the authenticity and quality of the vintage eyewear you offer?

Like most other fields, proving authenticity comes down to researching. I was lucky enough to get into the game before the hype and amassed a wealth of catalogs and pictures. So I know the proper shapes, color shades, materials, etc. that a frame is supposed to be made of. Take for example a Cartier Giverny. I know every size and color the frame comes in, what shade the 22k gold or platinum finish should be, how and where the lens logo is supposed to be etched, and most importantly the proper shape. All fake Cartier are gold toned and not plated so the lack of luster is a dead giveaway. Also they are always misshapen. An authentic pair is a sleek oval-like shape meant to accentuate the wearer’s eyes. While the fakes are a bulbous, bubbly round shape that makes you look silly. You start to get an eye for it if you collect for long enough.

Can you share any unique or rare pieces that you have acquired for your collection?

Another hard one but if I had to pick I always love to flex my St. Moritz 403 and 404. A marvelous frame from an obscure brand that I was able to make some of the most expensive models just because I kept singing their praises.

What sets your luxury vintage eyewear collection apart from others in the market?

What sets my collection apart is me. It was curated with my exacting taste and made to reflect what I think the world would appreciate.

How do you stay updated with the latest trends and styles in the vintage eyewear industry?

I set the trends.

What led you to develop a passion for collecting sunglasses and vintage eyewear?

Funny enough, I got into glasses because of an ugly hoodie. Back in 2007, I was big into sneaker forums and streetwear. One day I posted this hideous hoodie and a friend of mine offered me a pair of Porsche 5623 sunglasses for it. I took the chance and did the trade. It was love at first sight. I’ve always liked glasses but most glasses in the late 90s/early 2000s were small. So to find a big frame that would fit my big head was a game changer. Ever since then I’ve been hooked.

What role does social media play in promoting and growing your brand? Which platforms have been the most successful for you?

Facebook, Instagram, and Flickr were crucial to my success. I like to catalog my glasses so I started a Flickr account and would post them. What I didn’t know what that Google Images would index and pick up my pictures so when people searched for a frame I was at the top of the list. This led to people finding me on Facebook and Instagram to discuss and/or buy frames from me. After I found a community on Facebook and Instagram, I came to Android and started posting on there. It took a while, but I eventually started to amass a following. I’m still amazed that people care enough to follow and support me. But people love a spectacle and these glasses are spectacular.

Can you share any future plans or aspirations for In Search Of?

Right now I want to get into my other passion, clothes. I just introduced my first piece this year with my In Search Of 10th Anniversary Varsity Jacket which I couldn’t be prouder of. If plans go well, I’ll be introducing a capsule collection next year that expands beyond just jackets.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to enter the industry?

The best advice I can ever give to any entrepreneur is learn from others’ mistakes. You learn so much by watching others make mistakes. Study their moves and see how you can avoid the same pitfalls.

Take your craft seriously. If you’re going to jump into the game, don’t half ass it. Show your potential customers that you’re serious. Don’t just make an Instagram or Twitter selling things. Make a website, post often, take well lit pictures, and ship fast. You’re asking for people’s money, prove to them that they’re making the right choice in giving it to you.

Just do it. Stop talking about what you’d do if you had XYZ. Shut up and start the business. The beginning will always be rough but you’ll grow. No one makes money just by thinking about it. If you follow these steps, everything else will fall in place with time and dedication.