The Italian Trade Agency is bringing seven eyewear brands to Hong Kong in a showcase of the country’s prestigious craftsmanship and expertise.
From its effortless flair for fashion and rich cultural heritage to its world-famous artists and artworks, it’s no secret Italy is known for making beautiful things – almost as far back as the history books go, in fact. Aside from excellence in all things design, the Mediterranean country is also famous for its cutting-edge and meticulous manufacturing capabilities. Indeed, from sourcing to producing, Italian companies take immense pride in maintaining the highest quality.
In fact, the highly respected “Made in Italy” label is a clear and proud representation of those standards. With a long history of exquisite handmade products and impeccable designs that continue to lead global trends, that label is also proof of Italy’s dedication to integrity and virtue.
Enter the ITA. The Italian Trade Agency is a governmental agency that promotes the best of “Made in Italy” products and brands internationally, covering various sectors from fashion to food. In order to do so, the ITA has offices around the world, including right here in Hong Kong.
Now the Italian Trade Agency, together with the Eyewear Association ANFAO, are introducing even more leading Italian eyewear brands to Asian markets by bringing seven new companies to this year’s Hong Kong International Optical Fair. Because long-gone are the days when eyeglasses were regarded simply as a corrective tool and treatment for a condition: they’re now inseparable from fashion and style. At the annual fair, visitors can view the latest eyewear products and technologies, and meet the suppliers of optical and optical-related products – everything from frames, lenses and sunglasses to safety eyewear, contact lenses, optometric instruments, equipment and technology.
And if you’re in need of optical inspiration, Prestige has rounded up seven trendsetting Italian eyewear brands that are on display on November 8-10 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
LIO
If you’re seeking extravagant and eccentric frames that stand out from the crowd and underline your identity, look no further than Lio. The brainchild of Adriano Lio, who started the Veneto-based company in 1989 at the age of 19, the brand’s handmade frames have become a firm favourite, with strong focus on meticulous craftsmanship and recycled materials.
LOOK OCCHIALI
A brand leader with more than 40 years of experience in manufacturing frames, Look Occhiali uses high-quality materials such as cellulose acetate, exclusive Nil, Alumix and Xinox when developing its eye-catching frames. The brand’s three main collections – icons, fashion and sport– combine research, creativity and Italian style with
an international flavour.
IOVES
One of the oldest manufacturers in the Italian eyewear heartland of Cadore, Ioves Spa encompasses three leading brands: West, Amarcord and Diva. While West’s modern optical frames are at the forefront of the latest fashion trends, Amarcord is a ladies’ classic that blends quality materials with fresh designs. Further raising the glam factor, Diva eyewear’s optical frames and sunglasses come complete with Swarovski crystals that enhance the detailing of each frame.
SPECTAFUL
Featuring lightweight, minimalist designs and light colours, Spectaful frames combine metal with durable Technopolymer, a first in the world of eyewear. With no welded joints in its frames and unbeatable strength and resistance to impact and oxidation, these trendy specs are like no other. Best of all? The brand is debuting four new styles – Dudu, Bro, Sofia and Patty – in Hong Kong.
MAD IN ITALY
Founded in 2010, Mad in Italy is inspired by the hint of madness that characterises the Italians. Already synonymous with quality, style and comfort, the brand’s renewed collection now also includes models in acetate and titanium. Thanks to their lightness, the fashionable frames adapt perfectly to the face, guaranteeing total comfort. Mad in Italy also offers a wide range of beautifully combined colours and avant-garde shapes that make you stand out from the crowd without being overly extravagant.
NIK03
Designed, developed and produced entirely in Italy, Nik03 has become a key player in quality metal eyewear, in Europe and around the world. The Nik03 collection includes eyewear that’s completely nickel free or is plated in precious metals. Made with 95 percent recycled steel, the brand is driven by the passion of its founders to create traditional handmade metal eyewear, which is proudly displayed at this year’s Hong Kong International Optical Fair.
MODO EYEWEAR
Known for its timeless designs, extreme lightness and lasting quality, Modo continues to push the boundaries of innovation through continuous research into materials for a perfect balance between refined aesthetics and functionality. Since 1990, Modo’s bold frames have offered intense colours, unique shapes and uncompromising construction that makes them both durable and comfortable.