Kenmark Group launches Kensie Eyewear. Consisting of 14 ophthalmic frames and four sunglasses, the new collection reflects the sensibility behind Kensie—“It’s really nice to feel pretty, whether it’s all-out girly or a raw and modern twist on femininity.” Eyeglass shapes are contemporary variations on butterflies, cat eyes, ovals and rectangles paired with vibrant colors ranging from black, brown and tortoise to lipstick, merlot and violet. Textures and patterns from Kensie clothing have been translated into the eyewear through metal cut-outs, laser etchings and the layering of materials, inviting a playful mingling of light through transparency and shadows. Each sunglass is equipped with CR-39 lenses with fashion gradient and/or solid tints.

 
Photographed by Annie Gallagher/Black Box studio


PHILOSOPHY:
“Kensie Eyewear fills a void in our portfolio for the twenty-something female market. The detailing and romantic styling of the eyewear and sunwear capture the playful, pretty look of the Kensie girl,” says Amy Moore, Kenmark Group product director. Eric Karls, Kensie president and CEO, adds, “I’m excited about the partnership with Kenmark.  The company has a proven record of capturing and marketing the culture of the brands they license.”

MARKETING:
Merchandising materials include two- and four-place displays, posters, countercards, postcards and a logo block. Each ophthalmic frame comes with a case featuring a Kensie logo that slides open to reveal interior journal writings.

PRICE POINT:
$$. For additional information, contact Kenmark Group, (800) 627-2898; web site: www.kenmarkoptical.com

INSIGHT
Kensie is all about feminine, pretty clothes and is designed and operated by Vancouver-based founders Eric and Lani Karls, who launched onto the scene with mac & jac in 1994, followed by kensie and kensiegirl. In 2006, the brands were purchased by Liz Claiborne Inc. All three brands are sold internationally at department and specialty stores