lines and launches

Future Perfect

Amy Spiezio · Photography by Peter Baker

SAFILO'S BALENCIAGA HITS THE RUNWAY

The new Spring/Summer 2008 Balenciaga collection of sunglasses from Safilo reflects a futuristic spirit and a couture style that distinguishes the creations of Nicolas Ghesquière, the artistic director of the fashion house. Inspired by the sobriety and rigor of the Ghesquière's style, the shapes are pure, forged from materials including acetate and brushed metal in a color range from natural to acid shades. Highlighted with industrial and spatial iconography of the brand, details such as screws inserted on the ends of the earpieces are signature features. The sunglass collection also includes a special Balenciaga Edition series—a model from the archives reinterpreted with cutting-edge materials and methods. The sunglasses of the edition series for Spring/Summer 2008 feature a double 'B' mirrored logo and come complete with a unique case. For more information, visit www.safilo.com.

High Performance

IZOD PERFORMX SUN FROM CLEARVISION The Izod name is synonymous with clean, modern, masculine designs that keep up with an active lifestyle. ClearVision Optical's Izod PerformX memory metal sunglasses offer memory metal bridge and temple components and custom double- injected plastic temple tips. Brand manager Pam Elfreich notes, "The Izod PerformX consumer values memory metal designs that can hold up to their active lifestyle needs. Combine this feature with a high quality, polycarbonate, polarized sun lens and a TriflectionTM flash mirror lens coating that cuts glare and you have an outstanding product that the Izod customer will appreciate wearing while golfing, driving, fishing, or any other activity they enjoy doing outdoors." A sporty sunglass case is also included with each pair. Call 800-645-3733.

frame spotlight

Idol Style

ZYLOWARE SPINS RANDY JACKSON EYEWEAR

American Idol judge, music producer, and frame afficionado Randy Jackson has launched his namesake line of eyewear with Zyloware. Chris Shyer, president, said, "People constantly ask Randy where they can find his cool eyewear." Adds James Shyer, chief operating officer, "Randy Jackson Eyewear fills an important need the male consumer has been looking for: a cool, stylish collection that is wearable and available at reasonable price points." Randy Jackson Eyewear speaks to men ages 25 to 50 with stylish designs in plastic, metal, and semi-rimless frames. Modern double bridges, two-tone colorations, and hanging lenses are some of the product highlights. Each style is subtly branded, with logos solely on the interior temple tip. Each frame comes with a hard-sided leatherette/tweed case. The point-of-purchase includes a four-piece display, a one-piece display, a signature plaque, a frameboard identifier, and a countercard. For more information, visit www.zyloware.com.

Inside the Line…
In a recent talk with Eyecare Business, Randy Jackson shared his history and his hopes for a his new eyewear line. First diagnosed with an astigmatism in high school, he has worn eyewear his entire adult life. Although some have recommended he try surgical cures, Jackson says he prefers to keep his signature look and opt for eyewear. A college athlete until a career-ending injury, Jackson retired from sports and delved into music. The music industry veteran's career spans 25 years, beginning as a bass player for the rock band, Journey. Since then, he has played on more than 1,000 albums and played on stage with stars including Madonna, Aretha Franklin, and Elton John. Jackson then took his career to the corporate side of the music business as a talent executive for major labels Columbia and MCA Records. He still produces music for artists including Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Travis Tritt, Boyz 2 Men, and others and in 2007 he won a Grammy® award for producing an album for R&B artist Van Hunt. Being in with the movers and shakers of the music world keeps Jackson on the run and on the road. But he's never without a variety of his signature eyewear—especially now that he has his own line. About his collection, Randy Jackson said, "I'm a person who loves to wear glasses. It's another opportunity to tell you who I am. And I think that all men can enjoy wearing glasses and look good in them. But there isn't much out there for men. So I decided I'd create a line—for all men that want to look good."