NEW YORK--Fashion is clearly in the air and everywhere else as attendees get ready to gather this week at International Vision Expo East to preview the hottest and most exclusive eyewear fashions and trends. Three special pavilions - The Galleria, The Designer Boutique and The Underground serve as the runways on which this season’s latest eyewear trends and frame selections will be unveiled where else but in in the fashion capital of the world.
“International Vision Expo is the place to see products, and this year, we offer more brands than ever before,” said Deborah Malakoff, vice president, Vision Council of America. “The show is the best place to dial into the hottest trends in eyewear, meet the most exciting designers and find them easily in the organized Galleria, Underground and Designer Boutique.
The hugely popular and always-hip Galleria returns to International Vision Expo East in its well-known location on Level 4 for a seventh year. With its enormous selection of high-end eyewear designs from every part of the globe, the kinetic excitement in the space is impressive indeed. The variety of boutiques in the Galleria help attendees easily find the kind of unique frames and styles at a selection of prices that will quickly help them stand out in the market while meeting the needs of their most fashion-conscious patients and customers. Exhibiting companies also help buyers better understand how to position eyewear as a fashion purchase.
The Designer Boutique, an extension of The Galleria on the show floor (booths 3634-3656 and 3733-3757), can be easily identified this year by a special Designer Boutique logo in the show directory and in on-site signage. “We are extending the fashion buzz and focus right onto the show floor with the companies in the Designer Boutique,” said Eileen Baird, Vice President and Show Manager, International Vision Expo. “Attendees will be able to see an even wider selection of these exclusive urban styles on the show floor in addition to The Galleria setting, making it easier than ever for fashion-forward buyers to find exactly what they need no matter where they are.”
The cool white elegance of The Underground is a chic counterpoint to the event’s nonstop high-energy buzz, and a sophisticated respite for buyers in search of luxury, established couture designers. Located in the Special Events Hall on Level One, The Underground provides a more private showroom-style setting with meetings arranged by appointment.
“We frequently hear that the addition of The Underground three years ago continues to make a significant difference in the way the vision community does business,” noted Baird. “Creating a convenient and highly-stylized fashion Mecca in the midst of International Vision Expo ensures that our attendees do not have to travel all over New York City in order to conduct business. It also helps us address the needs of the sought-after designers who prefer to schedule appointments in advance and in an ambiance different than the traditional exhibit floor environment.
“Understanding and meeting the needs of the entire vision community is one of the many reasons why International Vision Expo East is happily celebrating its 20th anniversary this year,” Baird said.
