CLASSIC COOL
Luxottica unveils its Ralph Lauren Eyewear line, highlighted by three collections: Purple Label, Ralph Lauren and Polo Ralph Lauren. All of the collections translate the designer’s tailored, refined style found in the like-named clothing brands into eyewear. Purple Label contains four men’s sunglasses and three ophthalmics inspired by vintage silhouettes and such details as leather temple tips and glass sun lenses with back-side AR and mirror coatings. The Ralph Lauren collection contains modern, yet timeless, feminine shapes in its 22 ophthalmic and 16 sun styles. Designs range from vintage shapes and stylish aviators to modern shields and glamorous, oversize sunglasses. One style is entirely covered in leather. Classic and authentic, Polo is the foundation of the world of Ralph Lauren menswear, combining the time-honored aesthetic of casual Ivy League style with proper English refinement. The eyewear, which consists of 21 ophthalmics and 15 sunglasses, focuses on iconic shapes (aviators) and traditional colors (tortoises).
Photographed by VANESSA VELEZ/BLACK BOX STUDIO
PHILOSOPHY: “Our new partnership with Luxottica is all about raising the bar,” says Jeff Morgan, president of licensing for Ralph Lauren. “We have built a luxury line in Ralph Lauren, Purple Label and Polo and have elevated our standards in design, materials, finishes, hinges, lenses and fit across all brands, emphasizing our commitment to the fashion eyewear category.” MARKETING: Merchandising materials include one-place displays, countercards, banners and logo plaques.
PRICE POINT: (Purple Label) $$$$$; (Ralph Lauren) $$$; $$$$$ for leather sunglass; (Polo) $$$ to $$$$.
For additional information, contact Luxottica Group, (800) 422-2020; web site: www.luxottica.com
INSIGHT — Ralph Lauren began his fashion career working for A. Rivetz & Co., a New York tie manufacturer. There he received inspiration for his own wide tie designs, with which he founded Polo Fashions in 1968.
