On stage at FIT, Vittorio Verdun, VP marketing for Luxottica Group, center, and Karen Giberson, president of Accessories Council, second from right, with the students selected as Next Generation winners for sunglass design (from left) Jessica Dubon, Kerry Norton and Jee Min Lee. |
In the eyewear category, first place for optical frames went to graduating senior, Raine Anakanu while second place went to Hodaya Louis. In sunglasses, first place went to Apple & Eve (students Jessica Dubon and Kerry Norton) while second place went to Jenn Min Lee.
Other Award benefactors were Cipriani Accessories, LeSportsac, Nine West, Riviera Trading and Miriam Haskell who honored students’ work in handbags, belts/small leathers, footwear, hats/gloves and jewelry.
Noted accessory designer Rafe Totengco of Rafe New York was on hand to share a few words of wisdom. Rafe, himself an FIT alum, spoke about his experience as a designer and hopes to inspire the graduates to continue on their path in accessories. ■