what's new
Lines & Launches
By Lindsey Aspinall

Top: Style 1723 P13; bottom: Style 469 MO2

Inspired Style
JAI KUDO ANNOUNCES A NEW LINE

In 1996, JAI KUDO first began supplying uncut single-vision ophthalmic lenses to the U.K. market. Three years later they launched the company's first frame collection, and today they're established in 30 different countries. The collection features a range of acetate and metal frames for both men and women. Models combine contemporary, urban styling with practical functionality. "We find inspiration from all corners of life," say Caron and Steven Kraitt, the company's designer and marketing/creative director. "We draw new ideas from the world of textiles, interiors, and furniture design, while fashion forms the anchor of our collections and plays a vital role in the development of all our frames." The eyewear focuses on accessible eye shapes combined with striking styles, explains the pair. "The shapes and materials we employ represent the style and individuality of the people who chose to wear JAI KUDO frames."

Wholesale prices range from $33 to $103. For more information, visit www.jaikudo.com.

Change it Up
ALLISON LAUNCHES TRY CHANGE

Top: Style FR008; bottom: Style FR004

Allison USA has introduced the Try Change collection, a unique line that can be customized by the wearer. The temples ("Wishbones"), nosebridge pieces, and lenses can be mixed and matched for the ideal look. The collection features 36 temple/bridge options and 14 recommended base shapes for the lenses, but since the frame is a three-piece rimless design, there are infinite shapes.

"The big idea behind this innovative collection is that the frame changes with you," says Richard R. Babboni, president and CEO. "Try Change allows its owner, with no additional help from the optician, to change the color of the temples and bridge piece to match whatever they are wearing that day. Owning Try Change is like having a wardrobe for your face."

Frames are $40 and Wishbones are $15, wholesale. For more information, call 877-255-5757.

Animal House
INTRODUCING WESC EYEWEAR

Top: The Baboon; bottom: The Red Fox

WESC ("WE are the Superlative Conspiracy") Eyewear launched in 2004 following a 1999 apparel launch. "WESC is not merely a brand in the fashion industry, but a company within the skate, surf, and snowboard culture," explains John Clasing, business manager, WESC Eyewear USA. "It's created 'street fashion'—a fashion with its roots in a subculture that sets its own rules and follows its own trends." Animals are used as both style names and to model frames for promotional material.

"The inspiration behind the eyewear was creating something new—something with an attitude that other brands didn't have," says Björn Falk, CEO, WESC Eyewear. "That's also why we use animals instead of models. We wanted to do something different. The ambition is to surprise."

Frames are a mix of acetate, monel, and titanium. Wholesale prices range from $75 to $115. For information, visit www.wesc.com.