ITALY. Italian sunglasses giant Luxottica has introduced new models for its leading brands Ray-Ban, Vogue, Prada, Miu Miu and Salvatore Ferragamo.
RAY-BAN
Ray-Ban presented its updated sun collection for 2006 at MIDO, the International Eyewear Exhibition held in Milan in May. The range stands out for its fashion-inspired models, such as the new masks for the Aviator family’s RB 4081 and RB 4082 models, the firm said. There are eight new models, four in plastic and four in metal. All models are identified by the Ray-Ban signature engraved or silkscreen-printed on the arms and stamped on the lenses.
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Ray-Ban’s RB 4082 (left) features an Aviator-style mask front made entirely from injection-moulded plastic. Broad shapes and soft lines characterise the personality of RB 4081 (right) | ||
Model RB 3302, a combination with metal double-bridge front and temples in injection-moulded plastic, has a wrap-around design and chunky arms. There is a distinctive curve on the metal front and an engraved Ray-Ban signature on a metal plaque near the hinge. Seven colour options are available in subdued, masculine tones. One features a gunmetal front with green lenses and arms in opaque, matt-effect black. RB 3302 is also available in a version with polarised lenses.
RB 4082 has a sophisticated, innovative design, which features an Aviator-style mask front made entirely from injection-moulded plastic. Soft lines and oversize shapes come together in a retro look. The broad front is set off by slim, linear arms decorated with a silkscreen-printed logo. Six classic tones are offered, such as black frame and green lenses.
RB 4081 (injection-moulded) and RB 4084 (injection-moulded): Broad shapes and soft lines characterise the personality of this oversize model entirely in injection-moulded plastic. The broad, aviator-style design is described as even more contemporary and suitable for the lifestyles of all eyewear users. The metal logo is set on the inner surface of the arms. Available in six colour options, including a black acetate frame and matching smoke-tinted lenses.
The injection-moulded model with glass lenses stands out for its distinctive retro design and broad, square-look styling. The design of the double-bridge model follows fashion trends. The regular arms feature a metal logo set on the inner surface of the arm. Dark shades stand out among the seven colour options. RB 4082 is also available with polarised glass lenses that ensure complete protection and maximum visibility even in the most extreme light conditions.
RAY-BAN JUNIOR COLLECTION 2006
Luxottica Group has expanded its range of Junior models for children aged from eight to 12. All models carry the hallmark Ray-Ban signature, silkscreen-printed, engraved or pressure-applied. They are claimed to ensure functionality, comfort and fit, as well as maximum eye protection. Innovative, contemporary design characterises the materials and colours used and the styling of the frames, according to the firm.
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Ray-Ban Junior models RB 9506 S (left) and RB 9507 S (right) are claimed to ensure functionality, comfort and fit, as well as maximum eye protection | ||
Ray-Ban offers a new version of the classic Ray-Ban Aviator model RB 3025. The new all-metal model is said to stand out for its timeless drop-shape front and is available in five colour options, including the distinctive 213/53, which combines a metal frame with slightly mirrored lenses in shades of grey. The soft, face-hugging lines of the slim metal Aviator-style profile underline the personality of this mask-type model. The contemporary styling and lightweight materials give RB 9506 S imaginative appeal with great stability of fit, according to Luxottica. The five colours include a steel frame with slightly mirrored lenses.
VOGUE EYEWEAR
Vibrant colours, brilliantly lustrous sheens and assertive, wrap-around design are the hallmarks of the new Vogue sunglasses collection. The models project an edgily modern, assertive look for all situations. Gisele Bundchen, the international top model, is the brand’s new international face.
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Vogue’s model VO 2446S (left) has metal details on the bridge and hinges. VO3574S (right), made entirely in injection-moulded plastic, stands out for its oversize, wrap-around front | ||
VO3574S (combination with metal front and acetate arms), made entirely in injection-moulded plastic, stands out for its oversize, wrap-around front, which interprets the latest fashion trends. In model VO 2446S metal details adorn the bridge and hinges. The chunky flex arms are enhanced by a Vogue logo blocked out in metal. The model is available in a range of five colours. One option is gold matched with a tobacco-tinted single lens.
A mask-style model with metal front and acetate arms incorporates soft, sinuous lines. Small metal studs enhance the broad, wrap-around front with a distinctive double bridge feature. Glamour is the keynote. A delicately blocked out metal logo is set into both arms and framed by two studs. A rich colour palette is offered, in solid colours, such as all black, and in two-colour options, one of which contrasts black with white.
PRADA
The Autumn/Winter 2006 collection is described as having edgy styling combined with soft and sensuous shapes. The materials set off acetate against metal with innovative technology, understated decorative motifs and sophisticated details. Women’s models offer classic models and sinuously innovative frames enhanced by elegant lines. For men, classic models are reinterpreted with an innovative, contemporary approach.
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Model SPR25G (left) is a face-hugging, extremely lightweight model. Model SPR75G (right) is a reinterpretation of the classic 1950s-style Aviator eyewear rendered even more face-hugging by a metal face that introduces a decorative arrow motif with an engraved logo | ||
Model SPR25G is a face-hugging, extremely lightweight model. The laterally profiled lens aims to impart a confident, sensual look. The metal logo in relief on the arm is designed to be sophisticated and understated. Black, camel and various shades of tortoiseshell are offered.
Model SPR75G is a reinterpretation of the classic 1950s-style Aviator eyewear rendered even more face-hugging by a metal face that introduces a decorative arrow motif with an engraved logo. The two-colour arm has unusual colour combinations such as black, blue or red with white, as well as more subtle matchings such as tortoiseshell with soya.
Model SPR58G is a men’s model in super-lightweight metal with face-hugging rounded lenses profiled at the sides for a confident look. The metal plaque with the logo is placed in the centre of the arm, creating a contrast effect of polished and opaque surfaces. The colours of the metal are classics, ranging from graphite to silver, bronze or rose gold.
PRADA LINEA ROSSA COLLECTION
The Prada Linea Rossa lifestyle collection of technically advanced products is adapted to everyday life, leisure time and sporting activities. The collaboration of athletes and designers, as well as the prestigious America’s Cup, are said to have made crucial contributions to Prada Linea Rossa eyewear.
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The Prada Linea Rossa lifestyle collection of technically advanced products is adapted to everyday life, leisure time and sporting activities | ||
The Autumn/Winter 2006/2007 collection features model SPS01G in a dynamic shape that is flattened, with soft volumes and a prominent side contour. A new use of the logo sees it placed in the middle of the arm on both sides in this model only. Technical details include anti-slip rubber inserts. Colours range from white, black and red to blue, stone and dark brown.
Model SPS02G is a new model developed specially for the crew of the Luna Rossa yacht: the ample size
and wrap-around style are said to ensure that the wearer’s eyes are fully protected from the sun, wind and water. Its lean, streamlined design is available in a wide range of metallic colours: black, dark brown, stone, petrol, blue and red.
A model designed for sport, SPS01F has been tested in extreme regatta conditions. The face-hugging shape, internal components in super injection-moulded rubber and upper air vents all make this an extremely technical, lightweight model. The frame flaunts the distinctive red stripe carried by all Prada’s leisurewear collections.
MIU MIU
Miu Miu’s new sunglasses collection makes ironic use of the logo, which is transformed into a decorative element through skilful use of colours, metals and stones. This is a dynamic, feminine collection that alternates restrained, elegant tones with bright, exciting colours. Men’s models are also available.
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Model SMU21F (left) is an attractive feminine frame in three-layer acetate. SMU24F (right) is a small model in six-base acetate with a conical arm and a discreet logo | ||
Model SMU21F is an attractive feminine frame in three-layer acetate. The face extends into the arm, tracing a soft “feather” laser decoration that contrasts with the colours of the layers underneath, revealing unexpected colour combinations. Among the colour options are the distinctive black cherry/pink/lilac, caramel/caramel/cherry, the original flame-effect tortoiseshell and the classic milk and black.
Model SMU24F is a small model in six-base acetate with a conical arm and a discreet logo that projects a calm yet confident image. Available in black, milk, tortoiseshell and black cherry.
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
Spring 2006 presents DIVINE, a jewelled frame that brings back Hollywood glamour and sparkles. It is a broad acetate frame with temples illuminated by a composition of round and oval Swarovski crystals in different gemstone colours. Each one is hand-mounted in a prong-setting as a tribute to the Florentine traditions of craftsmanship and jewellery design. The black, navy and cinnamon frames have a silver-tone decoration set with crystals in pale amethyst, peridot, topaz, aquamarine and lime, alternating with rhinestones.
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Spring 2006 presents DIVINE, a jewelled frame that brings back Hollywood glamour and sparkles | ||
The tortoise and light horn versions have golden trim and are set with topaz, smoky topaz, jonquil and lime colour crystals. Each pair comes in its own matching silver faux leather case. DIVINE will be available at Ferragamo boutiques from September 2006 and opticians worldwide from November 2006.
About Luxottica Group
Luxottica Group, the global leader in eyewear, counts nearly 5,500 optical and sun retail stores mainly in North America and Asia Pacific and a portfolio that comprises leading premium in-house and licensed brands, including Ray-Ban, the best-selling sunglasses brand in the world. Among others, the brand portfolio includes in-house brands Vogue, Persol, Arnette and REVO and licensed brands Bvlgari, Chanel, Donna Karan, Prada and Versace. Luxottica Group’s global wholesale network spans 120 countries, with a direct presence in the key 28 eyewear markets worldwide. For 2005, Luxottica Group posted consolidated net sales and net income of €4.3 billion and €342.3 million, respectively. Visit www.luxottica.com
