NEW YORK--Ellen Tracy has reached an agreement with ClearVision Optical Company for ClearVision to design and manufacture optical frames and prescription sunglasses under the Ellen Tracy brand name.

The new Ellen Tracy Eyewear collection will offer 20 ophthalmic styles and 5 prescription sunglasses, focusing on unique materials and patterns and a combination of metal and plastic.

The new line will launch to the trade in March 2006 at Vision Expo East, with a preview available starting February 1, 2006. Shipping to eye care professionals nationwide will begin in April 2006. “Eyewear is an important element of a woman’s wardrobe and can often enhance her sense of style,” said Howard Rosenberger, president of Ellen Tracy. “I’m very pleased we will be working with ClearVision Optical to develop the collection. They have extensive experience in bringing fashionable eyewear brands to the marketplace, and in concert with our designer, George Sharp, have been working to ensure the frames complement the personal style and sophistication of the Ellen Tracy consumer. They are the perfect partner to take our eyewear collection to the next level.”

Peter Friedfeld, executive vice president of ClearVision, added, “We’re very excited about this wonderful opportunity to bring to market a collection of eyewear associated with a brand name of this caliber, targeted to women over 40. This discerning segment of the population has been overlooked by many U.S. frame vendors, as well as several of the world’s leading designers. The Ellen Tracy consumer appreciates quality accessories that allow her to make a personal statement and we intend to deliver a sophisticated and stylish line that she will love.”

Friedfeld points out, Ellen Tracy apparel is considered the mainstay of bridge departments in specialty and department stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s. Licensees for the company include fragrance, handbags, jewelry, footwear, belts and hosiery. Ellen Tracy is a division of Liz Claiborne Inc.

ClearVision Optical has been in business for 57 years. ClearVision currently holds licenses with a combination of fashion, lifestyle, and children’s brands: BCBG Max Azria Optical, Izod, Ocean Pacific, Jessica McClintock, Fisher-Price, and Save the Children.