By Karen Giberson
Visiting EssilorLuxottica’s Milan headquarters was an inspiring experience, one that offered a firsthand look at an impressive array of brands, groundbreaking technology, and a deeply rooted commitment to the world of sun and optical. The passion and dedication of the teams managing both in-house and licensed brands is evident at every stage of development, reinforcing the company’s status as an industry leader. While the company’s portfolio is extensive, some of the most compelling takeaways included:
FASHION DIRECTION
Trend forecasting during the three-day event revealed a striking balance between classic styles and forward innovation. Metal frames, embracing a retro-futuristic aesthetic, were reimagined in titanium-plastic combinations.
NUANCE AUDIO
This revolutionary solution for those with mild to moderate hearing loss is one of the company’s most exciting innovations. Introduced during the visit, this discreet hearing glasses technology is a sophisticated alternative to traditional hearing aids.
RAY-BAN
At the heart of Ray-Ban’s continued success is the brand’s ability to evolve while maintaining its iconic heritage. The Wayfarer Horn, handcrafted from genuine buffalo horn, showcases the brand’s dedication to high-quality materials, while an exclusive collaboration with A$AP Rocky brings fresh energy to the collection.
OAKLEY
Cutting-edge performance with bold, technical style continues to be the hallmark of this brand, an ethos that is mirrored in its equally innovative apparel collection. Blending edgy details with functional design, Oakley’s latest eyewear innovations include the Kato, created for high-performance cycling, and the Sphera, engineered for a weightless feel.
LENSES
Among the most notable advancements in eyewear are the latest evolutions in Transitions lenses. These light-intelligent lenses seamlessly adapt from clear indoors to dark outdoors with exceptional comfort.