John Varvatos launches men's eyewear for Spring 2006

John Varvatos launches John Varvatos Men's Eyewear for Spring 2006 with high fashion eyewear company Base Curve, an independent division of California-based REM Eyewear. The collection will include both ophthalmic and sunglass styles, and will debut in New York at Vision Expo East in March 2006. The line will be launched in Europe at next Mido (May 5-8, Milan).

Inspired by the design philosophy that won him the 2005 Menswear Designer of the Year Award, presented by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), John Varvatos Eyewear is a unique blend of vintage details and modern silhouettes.

The John Varvatos sensibility is based on the appreciation of old world luxury and attention to detail, and when combined with modern functionality, results in a lifestyle collection that is easy and casual. John Varvatos Eyewear continues this tradition with its fusion of vintage design elements and modern, masculine silhouettes.

All frames will be handcrafted in Japan using special manufacturing techniques and materials. Vestiges from the past such as fine filigree detail on bridges, end pieces and temples are incorporated in fashion-forward shapes with clean, aerodynamic lines. The frames are finished with hand-crafted details including signature temple tips and hallmarked inner logo plaques.

Base Curve is positioned to take advantage of REM's extensive resources and infrastructure while focusing on bringing eyewear to the premium marketplace.

On working with Base Curve, Varvatos commented: 'I chose Base Curve for the boutique feeling of their organization and their ability to focus on the Varvatos brand as well as their passion and understanding of my aesthetic'. Base Curve CEO, Mike Hundert, said: 'We are thrilled to be working with a designer that shares our vision of creating truly original eyewear with artisan-quality andsuperior design'.

The eyewear collection will be made available to exclusive optical boutiques and upscale specialty stores.