Whats New

Oct
2004

What's New

Photographed by Nedjeljko Matura
Marchon: MICHAEL
Michael Kors

Chic American style
Marchon Eyewear and Michael Kors have teamed up to launch the MICHAEL Michael Kors Eyewear collections of ophthalmic frames and sunglasses. Aimed at fashion-driven men and women between the ages of 30 and 50, the collections represent Kors’ chic, luxurious American style. The line consists of 23 sunglasses and 24 ophthalmic styles, all available in a variety of colors such as berry horn, black corduroy, black crystal, dark tortoise, olive, shiny gold/ brown, roseberry, sky blue and violet. Shapes range from variations on rectangles to cat eyes and aviators in metal and zyl and such combinations as zyl and leather and zyl and stainless steel. The MICHAEL Michael Kors collection is marked by its ability to deliver affordable luxury with superior craftsmanship and detailing, Marchon says.
PHILOSOPHY: “Michael Kors is a true eyewear visionary, who beautifully translates his philosophy of American luxury and sportsmanship into eyewear,” says Al Berg, Marchon CEO. “Teaming up with Marchon, Michael has created finely crafted collections with signature styling and details.”
MARKETING: Planned merchandising materials include a four-place display, two countercards and logo plaque.
PRICE POINTS: (Frames) $$-$$$$; (Sun) $$. For additional information, contact Marchon Eyewear, (800) 645-1300; web site: www.marchon.com


Metzler International:
40 Degrees North

Fresh, fun urban eyewear
Metzler International (USA) introduces 40 Degrees North, a 35-piece metal (some are stainless steel) and zyl frame collection inspired by fast-paced city living. Aimed at urban men, women and children, the collection consists of trendy variations on almonds, cat eyes, bowties, ovals, rectangles and other geometric designs, including an egg shape. Several of the frames are semi-rimless. Colors range from metal tones to shades of blue, black, brown, green, lilac and red and combinations of black and crystal with antique, matte and shiny finishes. Most frames are equipped with spring hinges and adjustable nosepads.
PHILOSOPHY: “The 40 Degrees North collection combines cutting-edge design, vibrant new color techniques and a very affordable price tag,” says John Castagnetti, Metzler’s director of new product development. “The collection is the perfect synergy for the young urbanite.”
MARKETING: A full line of promotional items is available.
PRICE POINTS: $-$$. For additional information, contact Metzler International USA, (866) METZLER, web site: www.metzlerusa.com


Luxottica: Miu Miu Collection

Provocative styling for the hip
Luxottica Group introduces its Miu Miu Collection. Reflecting Miuccia Prada’s vision of an alternate style targeted to a young, hip, urban audience, the collection aspires to become a new “classic.” Included are 14 ophthalmics and 12 sunglasses, all elaborately crafted and characterized by their attention to detail. Ophthalmic frames range from a plastic elongated rectangular design with a straight browbar and a narrow semi-rimless metal with plastic temples to an elongated plastic butterfly with wide temples. Highlights in the sunwear collection are an oversized, circa 1950 Hollywood-inspired plastic and a flat metal wrap with an opening between the lenses and the temples. Colors range from metal and earth tones to bright hues.
PHILOSOPHY: “With the addition of Miu Miu to the Luxottica family, we are expanding our reach to those consumers who crave trendsetting fashion that allows them to express their individuality,” says Vittorio Verdun, Luxottica director of marketing. “Miu Miu gives our customers a new brand that will help them reach a new market segment.”
MARKETING: Merchandising materials include a three-place display, posters, countercards and logo plaque. Each frame comes in a hard case with a cleaning cloth.
PRICE POINTS: (Frames) $$-$$$$; (sunglasses) $$-$$$. For additional information, contact Luxottica Group (800) 422-2020; web site: www.luxottica.com

The Lens Work: T4Rim

Designs for the 21st Century
The Lens Work introduces T4Rim, a contemporary interpretation of the classic rimlon frame style. Geared to sophisticated men and women who recognize the benefits of lightweight technology, the T4Rim combines extreme lightweight, durability and flexibility. The frame is made from Marsyn, a high-performance polymer that combines strength and rigidity at elevated temper- atures with long-term heat resistance. The material also offers dimensional stability and is hypoallergenic and compliant with FDA standards. Frame highlights include interchangeable nosepads, high flexibility, form consistence and easy assembly and they won’t slide, pinch or press on the wearer’s face. Styles are available in a wide range of contemporary shapes and fashion colors.
PHILOSOPHY: “Our mission statement is to develop fresh, new products that incorporate cutting-edge materials and the latest technology to create fashionable eyewear. T4Rim is the next logical step to offer the optical industry,” says Kelly Kim, president and founder of The Lens Work.
MARKETING: Merchandising materials include a two-tiered transparent display case. All frames come with a plastic case and cleaning cloth.
PRICE POINTS: (Frame with lenses) $$$$. For additional information, contact The Lens Work, (800) 987-0735

 

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