Italian Eyewear Exhibition “Reflections” Debuts in New York During Eyewear Design Week

Friday, March 6 2026 | 10 h 17 min | News

The inaugural Italian Eyewear Exhibition (IEE) New York, branded in the U.S. as Reflections, made its debut during New York Eyewear Design Week, bringing Italian eyewear design and craftsmanship to the heart of Manhattan.

Organized by the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) in collaboration with ANFAO – the Italian Optical Goods Manufacturers’ Association, the event took place at the iconic IAC Building, the all-glass architectural landmark designed by Frank Gehry.

Sixteen Italian companies presented their latest collections to an audience that included more than 100 buyers from across the United States, supported by a hosted buyers program organized by ITA. In total, approximately 300 visitors attended the event, including buyers, media, influencers and industry professionals.

Participating brands included Aerial Vision International, Aru, Atmosphera, I.o.v.e.s., Italiana Design, L.G.R, La Giardiniera, Lara D, Logoproject Design, Mad in Italy, Manifattura Italiana Occhiali, Marcolin, Nannini Italian Quality, Original Vintage Sunglasses, Stilitaly and Vanni.

The exhibition was conceived as an immersive experience inspired by the theme “Reflections,” with mirrored installations and transparent surfaces highlighting eyewear as an intersection of design, craftsmanship and material innovation.

The program included a daytime session dedicated to business meetings followed by an evening reception featuring artistic performances and institutional remarks celebrating the connection between Italian eyewear and the U.S. market.

Participants included ANFAO President Lorraine Berton, ITA President Matteo Zoppas, Italian Consul General in New York Giuseppe Pastorelli, and ITA New York Director Erica Di Giovancarlo.

“Bringing the excellence of Italian eyewear to the heart of Manhattan and presenting it to such an authoritative group of industry professionals means not only promoting a product, but also telling our story, our know-how and our ability to innovate,” said Matteo Zoppas, President of the Italian Trade Agency.

ANFAO President Lorraine Berton highlighted the enduring strength of Italian eyewear design.

“Our sector has deep roots in history, but it also has an extraordinary ability to adapt and look to the future,” she said. “Italian eyewear succeeds because it is an emotion you can wear.”

The eyewear sector remains a key pillar of Italy’s manufacturing economy, with 90% of production exported globally, more than 22,000 employees, and an estimated €5.6 billion industry value, much of it concentrated in the Belluno district.

Organizers say the strong participation from U.S. buyers and industry professionals signals continued interest in Made in Italy eyewear and suggests potential for future editions of the exhibition.