BUYER'S FORUM
The Sweet Smell of Spring

In this issue, we take a look at the hottest trends in sports eyewear products and marketing. What better time to do that than when the snow is melting and people are once again heading outdoors to explore the warmer weather?

We got a taste of spring in New York as Vision Expo East was underway. Despite a snowy start on Friday, the halls bustled with ECPs eager to get a look at what's new for the coming season. Fresh trends were spotted. Colors reminiscent of life in the ocean washed up on booth displays. Frames in teal, royal blue, turquoise, coral, and purple were offered in acetate, titanium, monel, and, in some cases, silver and gold. Designers also took to combining these materials, balancing chunky plastics with delicate, flattened matte metals.

Another interesting development was the increase in eye size for ophthalmic frames. With the baby boomers passing age 50, ophthalmic designers are making room for progressive lenses. But there is also the feeling that the minimalist look has become a classic-—allowing big frames to make a pointed statement.

So even though the bright sunshine tempted attendees, many stayed in to explore and still managed to get a sense of spring through the latest in eyewear.