Safilo Group and Pierre Cardin has announced the renewal of their global licensing agreement for the design, manufacturing, and distribution of prescription frames and sunglasses under the Pierre Cardin brand. This renewal, which will now run until 2031, demonstrates the strong collaboration between the two Groups, whose partnership began with the presentation of the first Pierre Cardin eyewear collection back in 1991. Angelo Trocchia, Ceo of Safilo Group, commented: “We are delighted to renew this partnership, which has delivered pride and success for more than three decades.”

January 2026

Matsuda brings together Japanese craftsmanship and the poetic atmosphere of Paris through its Rêverie collection. A long-standing tradition of visual collaborations, central to the brand’s creative heritage, continues with photographer Olivia Arthur. Shot in Paris and shaped into a catalogue, the imagery explores the delicate space between reality and imagination, where artist and muse intersect. The Rêverie project revisits the spirit of storytelling and playfulness that defined Matsuda’s visual language in the 1980s and 1990s, translating it into a contemporary context.

January 2026

Sea2see has expanded Breeze Ultralight collection with new models made from recycled all-metal frames. The minimal collection features six models, such as Alira, Lizaro, Eolina and Ventys. Designed in Denmark and produced in Italy from high quality nickel-free recycled stainless steel, these new frames fully align with the Sea2see philosophy of sustainable eyewear. Founder of Sea2see, François van den Abeele said: “We have introduced excellent quality upcycled metals that complement the Breeze Ultralight line and provide the characteristics of lightweight comfort and ease-of-wear.”

January 2026

The first Guess Jeans eyewear collection has been unveiled by Guess. Developed under the vision and innovation-driven approach of Guess Jeans Chief New Business Development Officer Nicolai Marciano, the collection brings together current trends with functional, easy-to-wear designs. Targeting a young audience ranging from Gen Z to Gen Alpha, the brand stands out with unisex styles produced using quality materials. The star motif featured on the models, along with the italicized Guess Jeans logo, are among the distinctive elements that emphasize the collection’s dynamic and youthful identity.

January 2026

Kaleos unveils the latest model within its exclusive Shapes collection. Produced in Japan and limited to just 250 pieces worldwide, the new model Shapes#003 continues the brand’s ongoing exploration of bold design and sculptural eyewear. Presented entirely in black, Shapes#003 takes a strikingly architectural approach. The flat-top profile, oversized wraparound silhouette, and deep, dark lenses create a powerful, avant-garde presence that feels both futuristic and precise. Strong geometric lines define the frame, giving the model a confident, statement-driven character.

January 2026

Pantone, the prestigious color institute with a strong influence across fashion, architecture, photography, art and design, has announced Cloud Dancer as its Color of the Year for 2026. A soft white shade, Cloud Dancer provides a strong foundation for the entire color palette, allowing other colors to stand out. Pantone colors traditionally make a visible impact on the optical sector as well. Accordingly, Cloud Dancer is expected to influence the optical world, from frame designs and eyewear packaging to collection campaigns and optical store interiors.

January 2026

J.F. Rey has unveiled its new women’s eyewear collection, reflecting the brand’s commitment to design freedom and a color-driven approach. The French brand explores color as a means of expression and identity, highlighting rich and unexpected combinations across the range. Comprising 11 shapes and 55 color options, the series is crafted from metal, acetate, and hybrid constructions. All models share a common design philosophy that unites color, emotion, and artistic language. The brand’s signature Totem hinge stands out as a defining architectural detail, adding a distinctive visual signature.

January 2026

Mido Eyewear Show opens its doors from 31 January to 2 February 2026. The event will host around 1,200 exhibitors from 50 countries, reflecting the sector’s dynamism with 140 new entries and significant returning brands. Fashion Square, the heart of Hall 1, will be completely renovated, while The Lens of Time exhibition awaits visitors in Hall 6. The Design area will remain a hub of creativity and experimentation in Halls 2 and 4. The Academy section will host over 90 new brands, and the Start Up area will feature around 20 new companies. During the show, the Best Store, CSE, and CSE Corporate awards will also be presented.

January 2026

Google has announced plans to bring AI-powered glasses to market in 2026 in collaboration with Samsung, Warby Parker and Gentle Monster. Powered by Gemini AI, the glasses will be offered in two different versions. The screen-free model is designed for fully voice-based use, featuring a camera, microphones and speakers. The second version includes a small display integrated into the lens, providing personalized and context-based information. Running on the Android XR operating system, the glasses will offer features such as real-time translation, voice-activated photography and environmental awareness.

January 2026

Rodenstock closed the year on a high note as its B.I.G. Exact® Sensitive lenses were honoured with an award at the prestigious Optician Awards 2025. This latest recognition follows a series of international accolades received by B.I.G. Exact® Sensitive throughout the year. Earlier in 2025, the lenses were awarded the German Innovation Award and the Silmo d’Or, and in October received the Gold Medal of Grupa Mtp at the Optyka Fair in Poland. Combining individual visual sensitivity with precise biometric data, the awarded lenses deliver a fully personalised visual experience tailored to each wearer’s perception of contrast, light and clarity.

January 2026