This month, we’re excited to feature Indie McFarlane, founder and designer of Indy Sunglasses The cool NYC-based brand known for its effortless edge and modern, wearable frames. Rooted in downtown ease and everyday versatility, Indy Sunglasses captures the spirit of New York style: confident, understated, and always on the move.
We caught up with Indie to learn more about her inspiration, building a brand in New York City, and the styles she’s reaching for right now.
Where and when was the brand founded?
INDY was founded in 2017 in Scotland - from my bedroom floor.
What was the catalyst in starting the brand?
As an eyewear enthusiast, I was frustrated that I could never find sunglasses that felt expensive, actually protected your eyes, and looked good. It was either flimsy fast fashion pairs or $700 designer frames — there was no middle ground. I took everything I loved about high-end eyewear, from materials to protection, and created INDY to offer that same quality at an accessible price.
What is the dream for the brand in the next 5 years?
To continue building INDY, expand into new categories like sport and blue light, and provide the best affordable premium eyewear on the market.
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOU
Do you have a favorite collection or piece to date?
We’re currently developing a new frame using custom bio-acetate with detailed sparkle glitter flakes - I think they’re going to be fabulous, and I’m really excited about them.
What’s your favorite thing in your closet right now?
My vintage Burberry handbag.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
I recently read that success is a game of who has the most patience, and that really stuck with me.
Is there one unforgettable defining time in your career that changed you?
We used to sell in most Topshop stores across the USA and UK. I poured everything into those launches - inventory, travel, time - funding it through my bar jobs. It took about a year to roll out, and after the final launch in Las Vegas, Topshop filed for bankruptcy. I lost everything at around 23.
I had to pivot to online, and that experience really hardened me and made me more resilient. In a way, it shaped me as a founder and forced me to learn how to build a successful online business.
If you could be from any other decade (or era), which would it be?
I was born in the 90s, but I think it would have been amazing to be in your 20s during that time. The fashion felt effortless, and everyone had their own unique style.
Best gift you’ve ever received?
I’ve been lucky to receive a lot of beautiful gifts, but most recently my best friend gave me a necklace with the letter G for my late brother. I treasure it.
What does the word “Classic” mean to you?
Something you never regret wearing.
QUICKFIRE
Sweet or salty: Sweet
Coffee or tea: Coffee
Never without: My sunglasses
Color you couldn’t live without: Black
Your favorite accessory: Eyewear
Your favorite wardrobe piece: My vintage Prada boots I found on eBay from Italy
Favorite city: New York
Last trip you were on: Sicily
Favorite restaurant: Emilio’s Ballato
Hotel you’re dreaming of: San Domenico Palace, Taormina
I’m a firm believer in: If you work hard and stay consistent, you can achieve anything
I’m deeply grateful for: Family and friends
The world needs more: Kindness
If you had to pick one Classic Six piece, what would it be? Gloria Convertible Sweater is a beautiful staple
