Vision Expo Expands the NOW Awards to Celebrate Global Eyewear Innovation Beyond the Show Floor
Friday, November 14 2025 | 12 h 03 min | News
Vision Expo, organized by The Vision Council and RX, proudly announces the 4th installment of the NOW Awards. Presented in partnership with the Accessories Council, this year’s Awards are expanding beyond the Vision Expo show floor and invites all members of the global eyewear community to participate in this celebration of innovation, artistry, and storytelling. Exhibition at Vision Expo is not required.
This exciting development reflects Vision Expo’s commitment to fostering creativity and connection across every corner of the eyewear world. From established houses to independent designers making their U.S. debut, the NOW Awards provide a unified platform to showcase visionary design and innovation that defines what’s next in eyewear.
A Global Stage for Design Excellence
A judging committee of influential leaders across design, retail, education and fashion will evaluate submissions. The 2026 NOW Awards judges include Gary Black, founder of Black Optical; Christian Roth and Eric Domege of Christian Roth Eyewear and the CFDA; Selima Salaun, designer and owner of Selima Optique; Victor Sanz, creative director of TUMI; Bob Schulze, owner of Globe Design and Vision; Dr. Jennifer Tsai of Line of Sight; and Jeneene Allen, founder and fashion educator at ASGNMT.
“The idea behind NOW has always been to create a space where creativity leads,” said Nico Roseillier, Creator and Director of NOW by Vision Expo. “By opening the NOW Awards to the entire industry, we’re giving every designer, no matter where they are, the chance to showcase their work in a deeply meaningful way. This is about celebrating the global language of design.”
Award Categories
The NOW Awards recognize excellence across multiple categories celebrating both established and emerging talent. Entries will be evaluated across the following categories.
Categories include:
Best Sunglass (Independent & Branded)
Best Optical (Independent & Branded)
Best Direct to Consumer
Optical Achievement
Best Emerging Brand
Ultimate Accessory, presented by the Accessories Council
Call for Submissions
Submissions for the 2026 NOW Awards are now open here, and designers, brands, and creators from around the world are encouraged to enter. Entries will close on February 9 and product must be received by February 16.
Vision Expo 2026: The Premiere Hub for Eyewear and Eyecare Innovation
Vision Expo 2026 will take place March 11–14, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The event remains the premier destination for the global vision community to connect, discover, and be inspired by the latest trends, technology, and education in eyecare and eyewear.
Source: Vision Expo
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