On stage at 100% Optical: 2025 eyewear trends

Could you give us an insight into the topic your session will cover?

After two and a half months of rigorous work, our team has identified nine imminent trends that will define the eyewear landscape in the near future.

It’s no secret that fashion trends heavily influence the eyewear industry. So, this presentation will highlight the most significant trends for 2025 based on the research we’ve conducted to map this out. With each trend, I will walk everyone through global design patterns, how they affect the runway designs of the most influential fashion designers, what cues the street influencers are taking and incorporating into their looks, and then, finally, what the market will expect to see with sun and optical eyewear designs. I will also cover visionary concepts, daring frame design references, crucial details, and market-relevant colour palettes for each trend.

What are some of the key messages you wish to highlight?

For years, eyewear has had to settle for being just an accessory in other industry trend reports. However, with a global market size of more than $90 billion, we are ready to have the same resources as other industries. Trend reports are very important for any mature industry as a reference for design, development, buying, merchandising and being commercially successful.

Eyewear is profoundly influenced by a wide range of factors. These influences encompass not only neighbouring industries like fashion, art, music, architecture, and interior design, but also extend to socio-political and environmental dynamics. It’s really important to know how the market is shifting so you can adjust your inventory in time to catch emerging trends. Predicting the future is the result of understanding what signals to look for and then applying logic to how they will be applied in fashion and design.

Who is this topic for? Who might benefit the most from joining?

Independent eye care practices will benefit from referencing the trend presentation as a strategic guide to know where eyewear trends are heading before committing to the seasonal buy.

Design and product development teams can find inspiration, unique concepts and details for upcoming seasonal collections, while fashion and lifestyle apparel or accessories brands might utilise the presentation as a reference before introducing eyewear as a new product offering.

Licensing companies could integrate the latest trends into proposals and presentations, and eyewear and material manufacturers can enhance sales and company promotion by demonstrating a commitment to staying attuned to trends and showcasing their expertise in executing eyewear details and concepts.

Established eyewear brands can use the findings of this presentation for cohesive 'seasonal storytelling' across all styles, discerning which trends to embrace, while rising eyewear brands can look to create breakout collections featuring contemporary silhouettes and colours that capture attention from the press, sales channels, and distributors.

What do you hope the top takeaway will be for attendees?

“Knowledge is power.” My aim is for attendees of the presentation to leave with a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of eyewear design and how closely it’s related to other industries. I am providing actionable insights on leveraging these trends to grow their businesses.

Additionally, due to longer lead times in the eyewear industry compared to sectors like fashion apparel, replicating styles seen in the market often means missing the opportunity to capitalize on that trend. Our trend report is a tool to support eyewear professionals in understanding the reasons behind popular designs, enabling them to take a proactive approach to their business rather than a reactive one.

2024 marks 10 years of 100% Optical. How do you feel about being part of a milestone year for the optical show?

I am truly humbled and thrilled by this opportunity. Celebrating 10 years of 100% Optical is a remarkable milestone that fills anyone passionate about eyewear with immense pride. Not only do I have the opportunity to share trend insights, but being a part of this significant year underscores a decade of innovation and growth within the 100% Optical community. It also shows our collective commitment to elevating eyewear into something that is admired by consumers.

Read more of OT’s coverage ahead of 100% Optical here. 

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