Blog

March 22, 2024March 22, 2024

X-Ide New Generation

X-Ide is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the creation of a capsule collection that presents 8 styles with double temples, distinctive characteristic of the collection at its launch, here in a contemporary version inspired by the Cyberpunk concept.

Featured model: Rigel

Distributed by Mood Eyewear: www.moodeyewear.com

About Mood Eyewear:

At Mood Eyewear we take pride in presenting the best of the current cutting edge European Optical trends, which incorporates fashion as an aid to vision. Our commitment is to provide our partners with the personal prompt and professional service they deserve. Our exclusive collections are the fruit of creativity with innovation, art, design, knowledge and the highest standards of new technology with a multitude of carefully selected pieces.

Founded in 2006, Mood Eyewear imports and introduces to the Canadian market prestigious optical collections. The group distributes the renowned European brands Adidas Originals, Blackfin, Cremieux, Enrico Cecchi, KunoQvist, KunoQvist Young, Marc Cain, Rye & Lye, UX, X-iDE and now has the Canadian exclusivity of the creative Italian brand Italia Independent.

About X-Ide:

An incisive expression of creativity and Italian style, this is X-Ide, a brand that marries design and artisan craftsmanship, inspirations of yore and contemporary concepts. Ideas come to life through deeply-felt perceptions of the surrounding area, interpreted in light of the most modern trends. “Our passion is fueled by non-stop curiosity, by a quest for the most elusive details and careful observation,” in the words of the creators.

This is how our ideas originate: fascinated by the beauty concealed in every detail. Our vision is to transcend the mundane, distancing ourselves from the conventional. For us, creative thought is to contemplate life as a constantly evolving work of art”. X-IDE is a creative hive where the values of creativity, originality and savoir faire combine, giving rise to a unique alchemy, fueled by the constant quest for excellence.

We are led by a talented group of passionate, dedicated individuals who make design, research and Italianness the signature traits of our identity. Our commitment goes beyond the simple act of creationThrough the fusion of aesthetics and functionality, we express the essence of Italian artistry, combining tradition and innovation. Being creative means getting out of the comfort zone of a creative routine and embracing innovation. X-Ide is a brand capable of moving beyond the dominant mental stereotypes.

March 22, 2024March 22, 2024

EssilorLuxottica and WCO Partner to Establish Global Standard of Care for Presbyopia and Aging Eye

On the occasion of World Optometry Week 2024, EssilorLuxottica and the World Council of Optometry (WCO) announced a global partnership to raise the awareness and understanding of presbyopia and the aging eye, with the aim to establish standards of care for eye care professionals to follow when managing the condition. This initiative will also help eye care professionals with the latest evidence-based scientific approaches, tools and resources focused on the three pillars of mitigation, measurement, and management of presbyopia.

Presbyopia is a naturally occurring condition that people typically begin to develop when they reach 40-45 years of age. Currently, there are an estimated 2.1 billion people worldwide with presbyopia1. As the world’s population is aging, it is estimated that by 2050, more than 4 billion people in the world will have presbyopia (approximately 40% of the world’s population)2.

WCO EssilorLuxottica woman getting an eye exam by an optometrist

With the extension of life expectancy, the majority of individuals will experience an intervention for the vision changes due to presbyopia for about half of their lifespan. Consequently, the different vision care solutions allow them to engage more in visually demanding near activities at older ages compared to previous generations. The demand on our eyes has significantly increased over the past three decades, notably due to the widespread use of digital devices. These changes highlight the importance of effectively evaluating, measuring and managing presbyopia among patients, particularly as it will likely have an impact on their daily activities and quality of life.

Aside from raising global awareness, the program will also feature insights from several international experts in the field, to build the standard of care resolution and bring the latest research and evidence in easily accessible educational materials available to all individuals interested in learning more about presbyopia. To ensure accessibility, assets will be published on both the WCO microsite and EssilorLuxottica’s learning platform, Leonardo. Further updates on the available content and resources will be announced in the coming months.

“We are excited to partner with EssilorLuxottica to bring the importance of addressing our patients’ needs to see well up close. There are many new options to address presbyopia, and we agree that it is important to bring the information to the eye care practitioner so they can provide the best care for the patients. Along with helping to ensure evidence-based techniques are used, the partnership will highlight the eye health changes that are on-going as the patients grow older.”

Dr. Sandra Block, WCO President

“We are thrilled to partner with the World Council of Optometry, an organization that shares our vision to contribute to better eye health and vision care for people everywhere. Through this important program, I am certain that we will raise the global conversation around presbyopia and together make an even greater impact by providing a standard of care to manage the condition, but also providing the resources and support needed to help eye care professionals improve patient outcomes.”

Olga Prenat, Head of Medical and Professional Affairs at EssilorLuxottica

As part of its long-standing efforts to advance knowledge and education on vision care globally, EssilorLuxottica has been partnering with WCO since 2015 at their first World Congress of Optometry, and from then on, actively participating in all their congresses, and supporting other WCO global awareness initiatives such as the Global State of Optometry Survey. The survey will include information on scope of practice, competency levels, demographics, optometric education requirements, and regulatory information.

1 Eliminating poor vision in a generation © Essilor SAS 2019 Market Scope, Global Presbyopia-Correcting Surgery Market Report, April 2012
2 Global population of 7.6 billion people in 2020 and 10 billion people in 2050 Source: United Nations, internal analysis

Click HERE for the full press release.

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March 22, 2024April 9, 2024

The Art of the Frame: Unveiling GIGI STUDIOS’ Fashion‑Forward Vision

Elegant GIGI STUDIOS glasses with tortoiseshell frames on a clear, shattered glass surface with green foliage accents

By Mark Matthews

GIGI STUDIOS is not just an eyewear brand; it’s a manifesto of individuality and creativity. With a 60-year family legacy, the brand combines artisanal wisdom with a youthful passion for innovation. At GIGI STUDIOS, eyewear is more than an accessory—it’s an extension of your unique style.

Continuing a Six-Decade Legacy

Originally a family-run business, GIGI STUDIOS has successfully translated decades of experience and craftsmanship into contemporary eyewear designs. The brand stands as a tribute to the art of fashion, fostering a blend of sophistication and innovation
in each piece it crafts.

The Five Pillars Behind GIGI STUDIOS

Innovative Designs: From trendsetting to timeless, meeting the fashion needs of a diverse audience.
Extensive Collection: The broad spectrum of designs ensures that there’s something for everyone.
Quality & Reliability: From production to after-sales service, quality is non-negotiable.
Optimal Deliveries: Timeliness is key, made possible by the brand’s efficient production processes.
Flexible Partnerships: Customized strategies are the backbone of their business relations, guaranteeing mutual growth.

Fashion-forward woman in a smart beige suit and blue-striped shirt, showcasing GIGI STUDIOS' bold patterned eyewear

Stylish man in a beige jacket holding a small dog, wearing GIGI STUDIOS tortoiseshell glasses

Exploring the Collections

GIGI STUDIOS caters to a variety of tastes through its five distinct collections:

VANGUARD focuses on high fashion with cutting-edge designs.
LAB introduces lightweight, groundbreaking innovations.
ICONS revives timeless styles with a modern twist.
XS offers bold but petite options.
MEN delivers modern masculinity through its array of frames.

A Commitment to Sustainability

GIGI STUDIOS is devoted to responsible operations. From recycling acetate and stainless steel to partnering with NGOs, the company continually strives to make a positive impact on both society and the environment.

The Le Club de Lecture Campaign

Launching their Fall/Winter 23/24 campaign, “Le Club de Lecture,” GIGI STUDIOS takes us to a forgotten Parisian library where nine distinctive personalities come together over their shared love for books. This campaign introduces new designs in the VANGUARD collection, featuring intricate geometries and daring color palettes, and expands their MEN collection, demonstrating a commitment to both aesthetic purity and unique character.

GIGI STUDIOS is more than a fashion statement; it’s a lifestyle. Through a careful amalgamation of heritage, innovation, and a comprehensive product range, the brand provides not just eyewear but a full fashion experience. A look through the frames crafted by GIGI STUDIOS, one sees a world of limitless potential, where each piece is a portal to a unique vision.

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March 21, 2024March 21, 2024

WCO Launches Groundbreaking Competency Framework for Optometry

The World Council of Optometry (WCO) introduces a revolutionary resource aimed at harmonizing the optometry profession and enhancing optometric education globally: the WCO Competency Framework for Optometry. Developed with a vision to define optometry in terms of essential competencies required to engage effectively in the international eye care agenda, this framework marks a significant milestone in advancing eye health worldwide.

Dr. Yazan Gammoh, WCO Education Committee Chairman

“Recent vitally important global reports such as the World Report on Vision and UN General Assembly resolutions have outlined the challenges facing eye care, the impact of vision impairment on the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and the inclusion of addressing refractive error correction within universal health coverage. This urged WCO to revise its competency model to better prepare optometrists to meet the eye care needs of their communities.”

Dr. Yazan Gammoh, WCO Education Committee Chairman

Associate Professor Peter Hendicott, WCO Immediate Past President

“Optometry needs to be prepared to participate in multiple roles within health systems, and to work with others in the delivery of care. The competencies described in the framework give optometry opportunity to participate widely, potentially in leadership roles in teams.”

Assoc. Prof. Peter Hendicott, WCO Immediate Past President

Elevating Optometric Education Worldwide

At the heart of the WCO’s mission lies a commitment to supporting optometrists and championing eye health and vision care as a fundamental human right. Recognizing the diverse landscape of optometric education and practice across the globe, the WCO identified the pressing need for a unified global standard. The Competency Framework addresses this need by providing a comprehensive guide for developing core curricula for tertiary-level optometry programs.

A Roadmap for Consistency

Divided into five essential domains—refractive error, visual function assessment, ocular health and diseases, public health, and professional practice—the framework outlines the competencies expected of optometry graduates. By establishing a minimum level of professional identity across all countries, it ensures consistency in optometric education and practice. Moreover, these competencies are aligned with the WHO Eye Care Competencies Framework, further reinforcing their global relevance.

Addressing the Global Burden of Visual Impairment

With over 2.2 billion people worldwide suffering from vision impairment, the demand for qualified optometrists has never been more critical. The Competency Framework equips optometrists with the necessary skills, knowledge, and abilities to fully participate in addressing this global burden. By guiding curriculum development and informing policymakers, it facilitates the recognition of optometry as a vital component of integrated, people-centered eye care.

Shaping the Future of Optometry Education

Adaptable to the unique needs of each country, the Competency Framework serves as a dynamic resource that transcends borders. It empowers educators, regulators, and policymakers alike to shape the future of optometry education and practice. Ultimately, it moves us closer to realizing the World Health Organization’s vision of accessible, equitable eye care for all.

Join Us in Building a Brighter Future

The WCO invites optometrists, educators, policymakers, and advocates to join forces in harnessing the transformative potential of the Competency Framework. Together, we can ensure that everyone, everywhere, has access to the quality eye care they deserve. Let us unite in shaping a future where optometry plays a central role in safeguarding vision and enhancing lives.

For more information and to access the WCO Competency Framework for Optometry, visit the WCO website’s Resources page.

WCO Competency Framework for Optometry document cover

Click HERE for the press release.

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March 20, 2024March 20, 2024

CooperVision Enhances North American Academic Programs to Support Education and Training of Future Eye Care Professionals

Building upon the success of its array of academic programs, CooperVision has introduced several enhancements to provide additional educational opportunities to U.S. and Canadian optometry students and residents. These include the integration of specialty contact lens initiatives, the rebranding of its student-focused philanthropic program, and a new in-person educational summit for members of the CooperVision Student Leadership Societies.

Enhancements Empowering Future Optometrists

CooperVision’s Give Brightly^TM program—formerly known as Adopt-a-Patient^®—offers optometry students with additional “hands-on” fitting experience while enabling them to gift a one-year supply of contact lenses to patients in need. While the company previously offered a separate and similar initiative for its specialty lenses, Give Brightly^TM now includes CooperVision’s diverse portfolio of soft and specialty contact lenses, including MiSight^® 1 day* for age-appropriate children.

Through the program, each student may select one patient per academic year to fit with complimentary CooperVision 1 day, scleral, hybrid, or CRT contact lenses, then provide the appropriate follow-up care.

Investing in Tomorrow’s Eye Care Professionals

Members of CooperVision’s Student Leadership Societies will also have access to a new benefit this year. These students, who represent schools and colleges of optometry across the U.S. and Canada, will attend an educational meeting with networking opportunities at CooperVision’s facilities in Rochester, N.Y. The three-day summit includes tours of two of the company’s global, Rochester-based manufacturing and distribution sites, as well as a variety of educational sessions. Student Leadership Society members are second- or third-year optometry students selected by faculty at their schools to serve a one-year term. Selected students receive several other opportunities throughout the year, including a grant to attend the American Academy of Optometry annual meeting. A list of the 2023-2024 members can be viewed here.

“At CooperVision, we believe that advancing the profession includes investing in the future of optometry. From access to industry conferences to valuable networking connections and everything in between, we are deeply committed to strengthening the academic experience of today’s optometry students with ample learning opportunities that will best support the next generation of eye care professionals.”

Michele Andrews, OD, Vice President, Professional & Government Affairs, Americas, CooperVision

In addition to Give Brightly^TM and the Student Leadership Societies, CooperVision’s academic programs include the Best Practices^SM Student Program, complimentary contact lenses for students, and Myopia Management Certifications with MiSight^® 1 day and Paragon CRT^®. To learn more about CooperVision’s student programs, visit www.coopervision.com/practitioner/student-programs.

Click HERE for the press release.

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*Indications for use: MiSight® 1 day (omafilcon A) soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses for daily wear are indicated for the correction of myopic ametropia and for slowing the progression of myopia in children with non-diseased eyes, who at the initiation of treatment are 8-12 years of age and have a refraction of -0.75 to -4.00 diopters (spherical equivalent) with ≤ 0.75 diopters of astigmatism. The lens is to be discarded after each removal.

EssilorLuxottica and WCO Partner to Establish Global Standard of Care for Presbyopia and Aging Eye

The Art of the Frame: Unveiling GIGI STUDIOS’ Fashion‑Forward Vision

Continuing a Six-Decade Legacy

The Five Pillars Behind GIGI STUDIOS

Exploring the Collections

A Commitment to Sustainability

The Le Club de Lecture Campaign

WCO Launches Groundbreaking Competency Framework for Optometry

Elevating Optometric Education Worldwide

A Roadmap for Consistency

Addressing the Global Burden of Visual Impairment

Shaping the Future of Optometry Education

Join Us in Building a Brighter Future

CooperVision Enhances North American Academic Programs to Support Education and Training of Future Eye Care Professionals

Enhancements Empowering Future Optometrists

Investing in Tomorrow’s Eye Care Professionals

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