CFDA launches eyewear designer group

The Council of Fashion Designers of America has created an Eyewear Designers of the CFDA group with the aim 

of boosting the profile of the eyewear sector.

Optical Affairs’ Christian Roth will act as the group’s spokesperson, while L.A. Eyeworks’ Gai Gherardi, Selima Optique’s Selima Salaun, and Focus Group West’s Blake Kuwahara will serve on the executive committee.

“The formation of the Eyewear Designers of the CFDA gives credit to the important role that these designers play not only in the accessories space, but in the American fashion industry at large,” Steven Kolb, chief executive officer of the CFDA, told WWD.

The group will focus on runway partnerships or ready-to-wear collaborations and the eyewear section will be the showcased at its own CFDA press day next year.

Other designers announced as members of the group include Oliver Peoples’ Larry Leight, Illesteva’s Daniel Silverman, and Grey Ant’s Natalie Levy and Grant Krajecki.