"They are interested in styles that
have interesting design elements with
a premium look at an affordable price.”
Gamberini recommends Marcolin's
Harley-Davidson eyewear collection for
boomers. He says the collection
features a wide variety of options,
shapes and colours.
Linda Mulford-Hum of Centennial
Optical says boomers look for unique
design, quality, fit, comfort and a price
that won't break the bank when
looking for eyewear.
"Today’s boomers demand variety to
find that 'perfec fit' that blends design,
comfort and price built for their individual needs. That means there are a
lot more brands available for them to
choose from and technology needs to
constantly evolve to keep up with their
demand," she says.
Boomers are a "self-aware" group, she
says, that are looking for eyewear that
makes an "authentic statement that is
on trend, but still expresses who
they are."
Mulford-Hum says Centennial has
just launched a brand called Aspire
that is directly targeted to boomers.
"Using the latest in 3D printing
technology, Aspire Eyewear is the
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416•630•4470
next generation of eyewear designed
with a new, modern aesthetic that
allows patients to truly express
themselves through their eyewear,"
she says.
Holly Rush, president of Luxottica
Wholesale North America, says
boomers lead very active lifestyles and
eyewear companies have responded by
developing collections to reflect that.
Mark Ginsberg, senior vice-president,
global marketing at Marchon Eyewear,
says boomers want eyewear that works
with their look both at the office and
on the go.
A customers' choice in eyewear,
however, is boundless by age and more
by their personal style, she says.
"A secure fit with anti-reflective lenses
is also becoming a popular request.
Comfort, performance and fit are key,
too," he says.
"Boomers are looking to make a statement. They are embracing vintage to
classic plastic eyewear styles in an
array of textured shapes and colours."
He recommends boomers look for a
brand they identify with most and focus
on styling and functionality when
shopping for new glasses. He says
boomers should check out Marchon's
Flexon, Nautica and Calvin Klein
collections.
"Today’s boomers are spending more
time on computers and portable smart
devices. Boomers are now more likely
to own two pairs of frames, transitioning
from work to the weekend, with a
focus on quality, lifestyle and fashion,"
he says.
"Our boomer customers select their
eyewear based on their lifestyle and
the image they want to project through
their fashion choices. For example, a
boomer who is a fan of rock and roll
may select an iconic Ray-Ban frame,
while another who appreciates handmade Italian craftsmanship may go
for something from Persol," she says.
Rush recommends customers work
with an optician to select a frame
that compliments their face.
"A good rule of thumb is opposites
attract, so if you have a square face, go
for a round or oval frame. In addition
to selecting frames based on face shape,
I recommend different frames for
different uses and occasions. Building
out an eyewear 'wardrobe,' so-to-speak,
is a smart and fun way to ensure your
eyes are protected, vision is optimal
and your look is complete," she says.
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