ClickZ Eyewear Newsletter - 08.29.2024

goodr's sporty specs and Warby Parker's ambitious 600-store expansion plan.

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ClickZ
August 29, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

Specialty Bites 🍪

This summer, the eyewear game is all about small but not tiny sunglasses. Gone are the days of oversized, chunky shades; now, it's all about sleek, refined styles that scream sophistication without overshadowing your outfit. Think 1990s and 2000s vibes, but with a modern twist. Celebrities like Sydney Sweeney, Kendall Jenner, and Zoë Kravitz are leading the charge, proving that these subtly chic shades can elevate any look, whether you're strutting down a runway or running errands in New York City.

Remember last summer's kitschy gas-station sunglasses? Or the micro shades of 2017 that barely covered the pupils? Well, 2024 is all about balance. The latest trend is discreet, neutral-toned sunglasses that are just big enough to cover your eyes. These demure silhouettes harken back to the minimalist rage of the early 2000s, adding a touch of retro-cool to any ensemble. Sydney Sweeney's refined oval-shaped pair at the Miu Miu fall 2024 show is a perfect example.

Even in casual settings, stars like Katie Holmes and Kaia Gerber are embracing this understated elegance. It's a palate cleanser after last year's roaring Y2K trend.

goodr has launched three new athletic sunglasses styles: Bolt G, Bug G, and Astro G. Each offers unique features like no-slip grips, aerodynamic shapes, and anti-fog coatings. Priced at $35, these polarized, UV400-protected frames are perfect for various sports and outdoor activities. Available now at goodr.com.

Sanrio U.S. and Knockaround have launched new Hello Kitty 50th-anniversary sunglasses in the U.S. and Canada. Priced at $39.99, these sunglasses feature a blue-to-pink gradient frame and polarized rose pink lenses. They come in a custom microfiber pouch and box, embodying Hello Kitty's playful design.

Windsor Eyes, an independent eyewear distributor, has partnered with Miami-based Innovative Eyewear to distribute smart eyewear across the U.S. This collaboration aims to leverage Windsor's extensive network and Innovative's cutting-edge technology to make smart eyewear mainstream, targeting both independent practices and large retail outlets.

View of the store window for the Warby Parker eyeglass shop at 144 South Clark Street in the Loop. GETTY IMAGES

Warby Parker plans to expand to 900 stores, despite strong online sales growth. The brand's unique try-at-home model disrupted the eyewear industry, but physical stores remain crucial for revenue and customer engagement. This dual approach leverages in-store experiences and online convenience to drive growth and customer loyalty.

An inventor from Hialeah, Fla., has developed the PRECISION GLASS, an innovative eyewear device designed for active vision improvement. This electronic system enhances real-time vision for individuals with impairments, offering better image focus, field of view, and depth perception. The design is user-friendly and available for licensing or sale.

Performance Platters 🍽️

TikTok is revolutionizing peak season marketing, driving engagement and conversions through its unique blend of community, commerce, and entertainment. Brands should adopt a full-funnel approach, leveraging TikTok's advertising solutions to capture attention and influence purchasing decisions. This strategy promises significant business outcomes during the festive season.

B2B marketers in North America and Europe plan to boost social media and video content this year, driven by Gen Z's digital habits. Short-form social videos are seen as high ROI, with LinkedIn video uploads set to rise 45% YoY. This trend underscores the growing importance of video in B2B marketing.

Beauty brands like ColourPop, Smashbox, Curology, and Dr.Jart are leveraging new e-commerce platforms such as TikTok Shop and Amazon's Premium Beauty Store. These strategic expansions highlight the industry's shift towards digital and direct-to-consumer channels, emphasizing convenience, accessibility, and the importance of social commerce.

ClickZ is a Contentive publication in the DTC Ecommerce division