WHAT'S NEW - BUYER'S
FORUM
There
are so many technical details behind good frames. The latest hinges, materials,
and shapes make eyewear architectural wonders. And these factors will continue to
impress patients and draw them in. But
there's something else to remember: The emotional connections. Eyewear is literally
the closest thing to many people all day, every dayso connecting eyewear
with happiness can help turn your frame customers into frame aficionados. At Vision
Expo West, that connection was a hot topic. During a class covering frame fashion
and technology, one ECP spoke about her eyewear, which appeared to be a subtle black
cat eye. Beneath a black front, there was a layer of warm orange, and closest to
the eye was the secret treasure of the frame...leopard spots. No one can see that print, but every time she puts on those frames,
she enjoys the sensation of secretly indulging her wild side.
Savvy eyewear designers are choosing unique paths to foster good
feelings. A case in point is Jason Kirk, designer of the Kirk Originals and Kirk
Heroes lines. Kirk says that he strives to build a basic equation in his clients'
minds: Happiness = Eyewear. In his new Heroes line, each frame is named after an
illustrious member of a fictional Kirk family. When a frame is purchased, the patient
receives not only a wooden storage box and a microfiber sack, but also a deck of
cards with each of the characters. Every time the wearers put on their glasses,
not only will they enjoy the style, but they will think of the story behind the
frames' namesake and have a chuckle. Winning
hearts and minds isn't a new concept, but developing that trait in eyewear just
may be one of the keys to future success in the optical marketplace.
Amy Spiezio
Managing Editor