VIVA PARTNERS WITH WILLIAM RAST » William Rast, the “New America” denim lifestyle brand founded by Trace Ayala and Justin Timberlake, has signed a multi-year licensing agreement with Viva International Group to design, produce and globally distribute William Rast Eyewear and William Rast Racing Eyewear (pictured) focusing on styles for men and women in both the premium and sportswear categories. The William Rast ophthalmic frames and sunglasses will debut in 2011.

L’AMY AND CHLOE EXTEND LICENSING AGREEMENT » L’Amy has extended its existing licensing eyewear agreement with Chloe, a global leader in the women’s fashion and accessories industries. This multi-year extension builds upon the companies’ six year licensing relationship.

MARCHON’S IWEAR DEBUTS » Marchon Eyewear introduces iWear, an edgy, fun collection for tweens. Designed specifically for those with smaller faces but big personalities, the new collection features flat metal fronts with zyl temples in vivid, contrasting colors.

SIGNATURE RENEWS LAURA ASHLEY LICENSE » Signature Eyewear has renewed its Laura Ashley Eyewear collection license, originally signed in 1991, through December 2011. The eyewear collection includes ophthalmic frames, sunglasses and ready-made readers, and is designed for women who appreciate subtle Victorian details with a modern twist.

VIVA IN AGREEMENT WITH MARK NASON » Viva International Group has entered into a global licensing agreement with footwear designer Mark Nason, for the design, marketing and global distribution of Mark Nason-branded eyewear, including sunglasses and prescription eyewear. Mark Nason founded the Mark Nason brand of rock-n-roll-influenced footwear in Manhattan Beach, Calif., in 2003. The eyewear line will debut in early 2011, featuring classic rock-n-roll elements and signature embellishments such as Italian leather and metal works.

MONDOTTICA INT’L ESTABLISHES U.S. DISTRIBUTION » Hong Kong-based Mondottica International is licensing its name and trademarks to the newly formed New Jersey-based Mondottica USA, founded by Mitchell Barkley and Gary Podhaizer. Effective March 1, 2010, Mondottica USA has assumed all U.S. distribution rights for Mondottica International’s bestselling Hackett brand and will provide product, service and support to U.S. customers previously served by Spectacle Eyeworks of Vancouver, Canada. Additionally, in Fall 2010, Mondottica USA will launch Mondottica International’s Anna Sui collection of ophthalmic frames and sunglasses. Mondottica International will continue to supply design, marketing and production support for the brands.

OLIVER PEOPLES COLLABORATES WITH BALMAIN » Oliver Peoples is collaborating with luxury fashion house Balmain for two limited-edition Balmain sunglasses to be introduced in Spring 2010. Consistent with Balmain’s 2010 collections, the two unisex sunglasses are bold statements with sleek, modern design elements.

KAENON TEAMS WITH RODENSTOCK » Southern California-based Kaenon Polarized names Munich, Germany-based Rodenstock as its European distribution partner effective immediately. Rodenstock’s initial focus in 2010 will be in Germany and Italy. Knitoptic Sarl will continue to operate as Kaenon’s exclusive partner in Switzerland.

OPTICAL EXCHANGE NAMED DISTRIBUTOR FOR MARKUS T » Los Angeles-based Optical Exchange, a leading distributor of high-end eyewear and fashion accessories, has been appointed exclusive North American distributor of Markus T Eyewear. Markus Temming, the designer of Markus T Eyewear, is known in Europe for his artistic interpretations and distinctive use of such materials as titanium and horn.