The realm of Independents is what initiated the birth of this magazine 50 years ago, as noted by Editor-in-Chief James Spina in his column in our May issue, where he reflects on the sustained unity of partnership that is so unique to the independent arena, highlighted via both eyewear vendors and retailers inspired by eyewear built on an optical heritage. Our May 20/20 issue is a celebration of this collaboration focused on Independent Eyewear as we bring this eyewear art to life in our Style Feature and our special partnership feature Empowered Independents. And Fashion Editor Victoria Garcia dedicates her new products curation to Iconically Independent new frame styles from some of our favorite Independent Eyewear brands.

—Christine Yeh