
SUN DIAL KING
P R I C E : $70
NOTE WORTHY
P R I C E : $16
LIGHTEN UP
P R I C E : $13.95
ZIP TRIP
P R I C E : From $100
HEALTHY LASHES
P R I C E : $10
This article originally appeared in the May 2015 edition of INVISION.
SUN DIAL KING
P R I C E : $70
NOTE WORTHY
P R I C E : $16
LIGHTEN UP
P R I C E : $13.95
ZIP TRIP
P R I C E : From $100
HEALTHY LASHES
P R I C E : $10
This article originally appeared in the May 2015 edition of INVISION.
Lenses and frame are both important. The government requires that eye protection meet the American National Standard for Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices, known as the ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 Standard. A safety frame is designed to keep the lenses in place if there is an impact. The lens material is generally polycarbonate or a safety grade Trivex.
Lenses must be a certain minimum thickness depending on whether the glasses are impact rated. Frames must be able to retain a 2mm thick lens in both the high velocity and high mass impact tests under the Z87.1 standard. The lab that makes the lenses must also have its lenses tested per the standard, which you can see at safetyequipment.org.
ECPs who ask the right questions may find that nearly everyone can use safety eyewear to protect their eyes from injury at work or play. JP Sankpill, chairman of the committee that writes the Z87.1 standard and general manager of U.S. Safety, a digital lab that specializes in safety eyewear, says: “ECPs play an especially critical role in prescription safety eyewear, since they help the patient select the frame style and size that best fits them, and the lens and coatings that are best suited for the work they’re doing.” — CAROL GILHAWLEY
This article originally appeared in the May 2015 edition of INVISION.
Smart Ways to Sell More
Safety Eyewear
DR. ZACH DIRKS
St. Peter Eyecare Center, St. Peter, MN
Belle Plaine Eyecare Center, Belle Plaine, Mn
➤ We’ve been putting Walman Optical’s Perceive HD lens in safety frames. It’s nice to have a no-line bifocal lens in safety materials that now more closely mimics dress eyewear lenses in quality and vision. Perceive HD is the first true digital safety lens and since we use mostly digital progressive lenses in dress wear, it was an easy choice for safety.
➤ Simply ask questions. If you tell people they can have great vision and protect their dress pair from damage, and show them that safety styles have come a long way, patients may decide to pick up a pair for safety use and they’ll be willing to wear them because they’re more fashionable. So often they put a shield over the top of their dress glasses, and those shields get lost or their dress glasses get beat up.
DR. MARY GREGORY
Uptown Eye Care, Monticello, Mn
➤ We have a nuclear plant and other industrial plants near us, and these accounts require their employees to have safety eyewear. We have a contract with an Essilor lab and we place their lenses in frames from Hudson, ArmouRx and OnGuard.
➤ We ask patients to bring in all their glasses. We always ask them what they do at work and what their hobbies are and educate based on their occupation. We show them how their need for a bifocal in their safety glasses is different from a regular pair. After the exam, we give separate Rx’s: one for an everyday lens, another for a computer lens, a sunglass lens and a safety lens.
➤ We have about 40 safety frames they can choose from, but we find the look of the frame is not as critical to them as their dress eyewear because they’re for part-time wear.
Children deserve stylish sunglasses and serious vision protection
Children’s sunwear is hotter than ever, and kids’ shades are no longer merely downsized versions of adult models: They come packed with child-friendly tech features to guarantee that youngsters get the perfect fit, all-day comfort and UV protection. But these are sunglasses we’re talking about, so style is at least as important as performance. The beaches and playgrounds will be popping this season with fluorescent colors and bold two-tone and even three-tone pairings. Mirrored lenses matching or clashing with the frame are guaranteed to get attention, too. Be sure to display your kids’ sunglasses at kids’-eye level and talk with parents about the importance of quality eye protection. Then watch your sales heat up. — CLODAGH NORTON
ALL PRICES MSRP, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
This article originally appeared in the May 2015 edition of INVISION.
Thrill your customers with color,
from cool classics to bold statement hues
Color has power, and you have the power to help customers understand what a difference it can make in their lives, especially in eyewear: their most important accessory. Consider the sophistication of a classic tortoise, the statement-making ability of a bright red or orange, or the immediate fashion upgrade from a neon flash or two. Frame creators have defined 2015 as a year of bold tones, color-blocking and confident coordinated colors and prints, from catwalk favorites including pink and yellow to a choice of beautiful blues: indigo, cobalt or pastels. Easy updates in more muted tones can include Pantone’s color of the year, marsala; naturals like oatmeal; or a classic purple, flattering for many complexions. Of course, spring is the perfect time to try something new — and to suggest to clients that they might enjoy several pairs in various shades to complement their moods and their wardrobe. — CLODAGH NORTON
ALL PRICES MSRP, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
This article originally appeared in the May 2015 edition of INVISION.
ALL PRICES MSRP, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
WILL POWER
➤ Musician-entrepreneur will.i.am has been defying boundaries for years now, including his ILL.I OPTICS venture with Ksubi founder George Gorrow (and an eyewear collaboration this spring with rapper Slick Rick). The singer is seen here in model WA003V in matte milky gray with matte dark gray lamination. Details include a round double bridge and five metal rings on the temples. Distributed by Allison. ill.i.am
$300
TAKE FLIGHT
➤ Model Concorde from TARIAN flies high, with a sexy-yet-refined swooping shape and gorgeous two-tone looks in acetate for day-to-night wearability. Designer Jérémy Miklitarian confides it is his favorite of his summer 2015 line, each with a maximum of 500 pieces per style. Seen here in Parisian pink.; also available in French blue, new gray and new brown. jeremytarian.com
$455
WINGED BEAUTY
➤ Inspired by the radiant colors and patterns of a butterfly wing, model Mariposa (JL 1709SG) from JUDITH LEIBER has undulating sculpted temples decorated with more than 100 Austrian crystals, gold and silver leafing, enamel and intricate etching details. Handmade of Italian acetate. legacie.com
$850
CATCH SOME RAYS
➤ Model SL4500 from SUNLITES is a unisex acetate frame with color pops under the black front and temples and subtle rivets. An optional three-clip kit designed for the frame retails for $65 and includes Polarized, contrast and 3-D magnetic clips. altaireyewear.com
$134
IN THE SWIM
➤ A fashionable look for smaller faces, model P5004 from PARADOX comes in marbled crystal turquoise (shown), crystal brown or cherry red acetate. With spring hinges. aspexeyewear.com
$160
CRUISE CONTROL
➤ An effortlessly cool and sleek aviator look for men, SEAN JOHN model SJ858S has a metal rim and acetate keyhole bridge, plus subtle logo detailing on the inner temples. marchon.com
$196
SEE AND GROW
➤ The inspired new KIDS BY SAFILO collection blends barely-there design and maximum field-of-vision coverage for effective correction for infants and up. Age-specific styles include models SA0003 (for ages 4 to 6) and SA0006 (ages 7-8). safilo.com
$120
This article originally appeared in the June 2015 edition of INVISION.
JOIN THE BRAIN SQUAD!
➤ To share your hot sellers and see collected responses from our monthly surveys, owners and top managers of U.S.-based eyecare businesses are invited to join INVISION's Brain Squad at: invisionmag.com/brainsquad.
DISTRACTION-FREE
PHOTO SHARING
It’s lunchtime. You post a photo on Facebook to get advice on a case, and before you know it, you’ve spent your break scrolling through friends-of-friends’ videos and status updates. Figure 1 is a free photo-sharing website and app for medical professionals, and that’s all it is. Share your findings and get advice while safeguarding patient privacy. Info: figure1.com
QUICK PICKS
P R I C E : $5.40 for 72
WRAP IT UP
P R I C E : $3.95
LOTS OF LOVE
P R I C E : $24
GOOD WOOD
P R I C E : From $79 ($195 as shown)
SUN SAVVY
P R I C E : $129
This article originally appeared in the June 2015 edition of INVISION.
A revival of timeless materials means new ways
to please your luxury-minded customers
Wood, buffalo horn and leather continue to trend in eyewear, but the intrinsic elegance, beauty and historic significance of these materials are nothing new, and the experience of wearing them on the face is pure pleasure. Although natural frame craftsmanship dates to the Middle Ages, today’s sustainable and durable choices are perfect for people who want eyewear that’s built to last. When it comes to unique design, woods such as bog oak and walnut lend themselves unequivocally to spectacle production. New wood labels emerge frequently, offering a wide choice of looks at varying price tags. Horn and leather, still very much in niches of their own, add more options for luxury. Look for styles that are both traditional yet crafted with the latest techniques to fuse functionality with refinement. — CLODAGH NORTON
ALL PRICES MSRP, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
This article originally appeared in the June 2015 edition of INVISION.
ALL PRICES MSRP, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
READY FOR HER CLOSE-UP
➤ Kate Young, stylist to the stars, has introduced her first KATE YOUNG FOR TURA collection. Inspired by movie glamour but happy to work behind the scenes, too, the frames dress up and dress down with equal ease. Model K106 is a Clubmaster-inspired design with a cat’s-eye twist and flowing lines. Young’s launch includes six optical styles and eight sunglasses for women, plus two styles for kids. kateyoungeyewear.tura.com
$250
THINK AHEAD
PRICE: $94 per 100
NEXT GENERATION
PRICE: On request
COLORFUL CORDS
PRICE: $29.95
SHOW OF HANDS
PRICE: $48
TOTE ALLY
PRICE: $19.99
This article originally appeared in the July-August 2015 edition of INVISION.
This article originally appeared in the July-August 2015 edition of INVISION.
Vera Bradley frames were so hot we could not keep them in stock! Sandy Freise, The Optical Shop, St. Charles, MO
JOIN THE BRAIN SQUAD!
➤ To share your hot sellers and see collected responses from our monthly surveys, owners and top managers of U.S.-based eyecare businesses are invited to join INVISION's Brain Squad at: invisionmag.com/brainsquad.
NEW LENSES FROM
RUDY PROJECT
ImpactX-2 Rx lenses, new from Rudy Project, are fast-activating photochromics designed for active sports. They darken to black, red or brown, depending on the model, and they work in all natural light conditions, including in and out of clouds and trees. (They work inside cars, too.) “ImpactX has been a knockout hit among athletes from every field for years by enabling them to go all day with the same pair of sunglasses that adapt to any lighting condition,” says Paul Craig of Rudy Project. “However, the ability to make them in an Rx with edge-to-edge coverage really sets us apart.” Info: rudyprojectusa.com.
From smoldering summer looks to autumnal
wardrobe favorites, retro shades have vintage appeal
Here at the height of sunglasses season, it’s a great time to serve up new shades with retro flair. Excitement abounds, with glam style updates oozing old-school charm and elegance. Women have a world of cat’s-eyes and super feminine curvy shapes to explore, while men can enjoy classics fit for Hollywood superstars. Whether your customers want traditional retro shapes, timeless colors or classy decorative treatments, give them sunnies that offer unique style, quality protection and something a little bit out of the ordinary for the still-sizzling weeks and months ahead. — CLODAGH NORTON
ALL PRICES MSRP, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
This article originally appeared in the July-August 2015 edition of INVISION.
With back-to-school season
upon us,
now’s the time to stock up on frames
A little goes a long way. That’s true of many things in life, and with back-to-school season on the horizon, it’s time to freshen the frame offerings for your youngest customers. Great kids’ eyewear is on the rise from high-end to value, with many brands launching or adding to their children’s lines. The latest children’s models offer more than meets the eye, too. Start with flattering tones, logo treatments and decorations. Then discover the hidden benefits: These are tough eyeglasses, each one built to endure a little more than the average adult frame. Look for flexibility, robust construction and lots of design details for improved comfort and fit. — CLODAGH NORTON
ALL PRICES MSRP, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
This article originally appeared in the July-August 2015 edition of INVISION.
ALL PRICES MSRP, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
DON’T LOOK BACK
➤ It’s summer — there’s no time for regrets. Ondria Hardin, the face of JIMMY CHOO’s latest campaign, wears model Cindy, here in transparent dove gray. The frame’s butterfly silhouette takes cues from the designer’s sandals, with shaded or mirrored lenses. See a video clip from the Mojave Desert photo shoot at invmag.us/cindy. safilo.com
$405
about this feature: Each month, we ask INVISION's Brain Squad what’s selling in their optical shops and dispensaries. Here’s what people say is selling well this summer. Join the Brain Squad to report your hot sellers each month (and get access to way more sales data and intelligence than we can fit in the magazine).
Aspire from ClearVision is an upstart. Basically a zyl frame similar in look to a Mykita. In sunglasses, Maui Jim, baby! Made the investment in the 50-piece tower and sales shot up, especially in the Rx end.— Kevin Count, Corner Optical, Glenview, IL
This article is an online exclusive to INVISIONMAG.COM.
Lightec by Morel. We love the bright fun colors in a very lightweight frame! Dr. Tina Smrkovski, Reed Optical, Claremont, NH
JOIN THE BRAIN SQUAD!
➤ To share your hot sellers and see collected responses from our monthly surveys, owners and top managers of U.S.-based eyecare businesses are invited to join INVISION's Brain Squad at: invisionmag.com/brainsquad.
This article originally appeared in the September 2015 edition of INVISION.
Europa International is our bread and butter. Our first half of the year sales had nearly a 4x turnaround with a selection of over 120 frames for men, women and children. Deidre Morgan, Visionary Eyeworks, Nashville, TN
JOIN THE BRAIN SQUAD!
➤ To share your hot sellers and see collected responses from our monthly surveys, owners and top managers of U.S.-based eyecare businesses are invited to join INVISION's Brain Squad at: invisionmag.com/brainsquad.
Tech details, design blend for innovative looks
Sunglasses may be the ultimate fashion accessory, and that’s true like never before for men. Vintage traits and classical shapes have been reworked with absolute precision and attention to detail. Aviator and wayfarer-inspired square styles reign this fall, with toned-down color palettes, subtle fade effects and lots of premium metals. The tech is never far from sight, with high-quality lenses, nose pads and temple ends emphasizing performance and comfort. Look for innovative design features and finishes including double bridges, keyholes and other clever aesthetic touches for the modern man. — CLODAGH NORTON
ALL PRICES MSRP, EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.
This article originally appeared in the September 2015 edition of INVISION.
BONO AND REVO
TEAMING UP
Revo and U2 lead singer Bono have teamed with Brien Holden Vision Institute on a “Buy Vision, Give Sight” campaign to drive $10 million to improve access to eye screening, prescription glasses and eye health care in under-resourced communities around the world. Ten dollars from the sale of every new pair of Revo sunglasses will support the campaign. Bono, who went public last year with his decades-old glaucoma diagnosis, says his experience receiving good care for the condition has made him determined to find a way to increase access to eye health services for others. Bono has also designed sunglasses for Revo that will debut this fall. Info: revo.com.