It may feel like a panic button has been pressed for the luxury market. This year, Vogue Business released “The Luxury Slowdown Survival Guide”; McKinsey & Company and The Business of Fashion’s “State of Fashion 2025” report unveiled that for the first time since 2016 (excluding 2020), the value created by the luxury industry is expected to be lower than the previous year; and economic forces globally are forecast to impact the sector in the months ahead.

The plus side? As with all price points and markets, there are nuances, and high-end eyewear continues to be met with a pleasant reception. Eyecare Business attended a buzzing Eyewear Design Week in New York City in mid-March (pinpointing trends such as futuristic, tech-forward embellishments; bold materials like wood and leather; and standout displays of chunky patterned acetates) and discovered the many ways industry leaders are staying at the forefront of navigating this unique space.

For starters, this month’s Lab Insider column reveals how one high-end optical business elevates the patient experience; Staff Hiring, Training + Retention taps several insider sources for tips on teaching employees that product is only part of the convo with top-tier customers; and Eye for Beauty delivers insight into integrating aesthetic enhancements into an optometry practice. To present high-end styles visually, this month’s eyewear fashion feature highlights opulence in both sunglasses and ophthalmic frames. So, although luxury presents an intricate story, it’s a dazzling one to tell.

Beyond the luxe line of conversation, EB May also reveals key insights in the contact lens market, presents #EBNewProducts across a range of price points, and so much more. 

We hope you enjoy the issue.

Kerri Ann DeCindis,

Editor-in-Chief