By Christine Brophy
Associate Editor

SOMERVILLE, N.J.--Viva International Group debuts eyewear from upscale Italian designer Ermenegildo Zegna this month at Vision Expo East. Collections include 16 optical styles and 19 sun styles geared toward stylish, affluent and worldly men between the ages of 30 to 55.

Above: Leather detailing on this aviator style gives wearers an upscale look. Below: The VZ3002.

“Viva is very excited about launching the first Ermenegildo Zegna eyewear collection. Ermenegildo Zegna is the hottest men’s brand in the marketplace today, and we are pleased to be allowed the opportunity to offer a product that demonstrates our quest for quality and innovative design,” said Roxanne Galari, brand manager at Viva International.

Ermenegildo Zegna is a brand that has spanned four generations of the Zegna family in Italy. In the ’60s, the brand was known in the ready-to-wear market for high-quality clothing made with the finest textiles. Later, the company branched out into knitwear, accessories and sportswear.

The frames are designed to be timeless and classic accessories that will take a man from one season to the next. The initial collection has a “vintage-futuristic” look and is made with titanium and zyl. Styles are dressed up in a variety of ways from leather detailing to the Ermengildo Zegna signature pinstripe. Sunglasses also feature polarized lenses.

Roxanne Galari

One style, the SZ3018 is a titanium frame with rubber detailing, polarized lenses and flex hinges. Another, the VZ3002 is a 3-piece mount square shape metal frame with a Chevron temple design.

Optical styles are priced to the dispenser from $70 to $105 and sunglasses range from $90 to $165. Distribution is limited to high-end optical retailers. POP materials include counter cards, a double-sided banner, a mirror and 1- and 3-piece displays.