From the editor
The opportunity to see the latest in frame technologies is always
a highlight of the biannual Vision Expo events.
And, this fall’s Vision Expo West in Las Vegas, Nevada, did not
disappoint. Multiple innovations in frame construction were on
display - from lighter-than-ever eyewear materials to intricate
design features and from cutting-edge hinge construction to
revolutionary temple designs.
This issue of Optical Prism showcases some of those amazing
designs. One of our cover stories, on innovative eyewear, showcases
the latest and greatest in frames from companies like WestGroupe,
Alternative/Plan “B” Eyewear, Safilo, Spectacle Eyeworks and more.
Carrera by Safilo, for example, has introduced a new concept with-
in its Active collection, called adjustable temples. Several Carrera
styles now have a sophisticated adjustable mechanism that gives an extreme
adaptability according to face size.
Spectacle Eyeworks, meanwhile, has created frames with a laminated carbon
fibre layer in the middle of two wooden layers, which gives them the organic
look of wood, but with the strength and durability that is sometimes missing
with standard solid wooden frames.
We also speak with Toronto-based Specsy in this issue about their newest
frame material, “digital concrete,” which they can also create on state-of-the-
art 3D printers. The company now has its sights on adding customizable metal
frames to its collection.
Also in this edition, we have assembled a pictorial to highlight a hot trend for
this fall/winter season - eye-popping looks inspired by 1980s fashion. That’s
right, hot pink, neon green and big and beautiful frames are back!
Our NextGen article is about a pair of young Toronto-area entrepreneurs who
run the start-up company MarsQuest, which designs and creates high-quality,
fashionable sunglasses that are sold for a reasonable price.
We also chat with Mike Christiansen, who designs his own frames which can be
purchased worldwide and in his Venus Eye Boutique stores in western Canada.
And, as mentioned off the top, we were at Vision Expo West in Vegas and have
included a collection of images from the event.
We hope you enjoy this issue; our tribute to beautiful, innovative and
eye-catching frames.
Denis Langlois,
Editor.
6 OPTICAL PRISM November 2018