Under a worldwide agreement between Altair and bebe Stores, Inc., a leading specialty store retailer, Altair Eyewear launches its bebe sunwear collection consisting of 14 styles. The collection infuses iconic bebe embellishments, stylish hardware and chic motifs to complete the look of the bebe woman, whether sensual, sophisticated or subtle. Shapes range from modified square and oversized round designs to a classic double-bar aviator. Highlights consist of bold chain detailing on the temples, colorful bow accents, Austrian crystals, logo treatments, floating lenses and rich colorations. The sunglasses are Rxable. Together with its ophthalmic collection bebe was just voted as best “launch” in the EyeVote Readers’ Choice Awards.


PHILOSOPHY:
“bebe’s unique styling and details are attracting new customers and opening doors to new opportunities,” says Steve Wright, Altair president. “We’re excited about the additional distribution channels the bebe brand brings to us.”

MARKETING:
Merchandising materials include a single-place display, five- or ten-place display, mirror, countercards and posters. Each sunglass comes with a black patent leather case with pink lining, featuring bebe’s signature “i ♥ bebe” printed on the inside and a cleaning cloth featuring bebe’s tossed heart pattern.

PRICE POINT:
$$ to $$$. For additional information, contact Altair Eyewear, (800) 505-5557; website: www.altaireyewear.com

INSIGHT
bebe is an American clothing retailer founded in 1976 by Manny Mashouf. The name bebe was inspired by the phrase “to be or not to be” from Hamlet. Mashouf’s goal with the bebe brand was to offer stylish women distinctive and inspirational apparel and accessories bearing an unmistakable hint of sensuality. The products are marketed under the bebe, BEBE SPORT, bbsp, 2b bebe and PH8 brand names.