A series of sessions that explore the intersection of fashion, luxury service, and innovation in eyewear.

Friday, March 14

  • An elegant opening to EYECON, this exclusive brunch—sponsored by VAKAY eyewear—sets the tone for a weekend of luxury, design, and thought leadership. A refined setting for industry insiders to connect over curated conversations and exquisite dining.

  • [Approved for 1 hour of ABO credit]

    Panelists

    • Dee Carroll, Editor-in-Chief at INVISION Mag

    • Edward Beiner, Founder of the Edward Beiner Group

    • Gisela Assis, Co-founder of LAPIMA

    • Alcia Hartman, Founder of EYEQ Stylist Opticians

    Course Description: This course will explore the essential dynamics of vendor-retailer partnerships in the luxury eyewear market. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of best practices in fostering strong business relationships, optimizing inventory strategies, and implementing innovative collaboration methods that drive sales and enhance customer satisfaction. The course will also cover the evolving challenges in the optical industry and how professionals can adapt to changing consumer trends.

  • [Approved for 1 hour of ABO credit]

    Panelists:

    • Siria Alvarez – VIP/Restaurant Manager, Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi

    • Jeff Rednour – General Manager, Equinox Hotels

    • Dr. Jennifer Tsai – Optometrist & Founder, Line of Sight

    • Julia Gogosha – Founder, Gogosha Optique

    Luxury isn’t just about price—it’s about emotion, storytelling, and the seamless fusion of aesthetics and service. This panel explores how leaders in eyewear, fashion, and hospitality design experiences that captivate, indulge, and inspire. From curating high-touch retail environments to crafting elevated dining and hotel experiences, our panelists will uncover the art of making customers feel exclusive, valued, and deeply connected to a brand.

  • Panelists:

    • Marge Axelrad, Editorial director emeritus at Vision Monday/VMAIL

    • Alain Mikli, Creator and Founder of Alain Mikli Eyewear

    • Tommy O’Gara, founder of The Light Co.

    • Christos Karabelas, founder of SOMA Optical

    Join us for an in-depth conversation with three visionary forces in eyewear: Alain Mikli, the legendary designer known for his avant-garde aesthetic and pioneering craftsmanship; Tommy O’Gara, the creative mind behind some of the most technically refined and beautifully engineered frames in the industry; and Christos Karabelas, founder of SOMA Optical, a boutique celebrated for its expertly curated selection and commitment to independent eyewear. Moderated by Marge Axelrad, this panel will explore the intersection of artistry and innovation in eyewear design, touching on material advancements, the evolving role of independent eyewear in the luxury space, and how designers continue to push creative and technical boundaries. Christos will also highlight the vital role of independent retailers in championing design-driven brands, fostering creativity, and shaping consumer appreciation for craftsmanship.

  • As the city skyline glows, SolAmor Eyewear hosts an evening of refinement and connection. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails while mingling with industry tastemakers in an unforgettable setting.

Saturday, March 15

  • A refreshing start to the day, this KURO Athletics-sponsored run through Central Park blends wellness with networking. An invigorating way to engage with like-minded professionals in the eyewear industry.

  • [Approved for 1 hour of ABO credit]

    Panelists:

    • Christine Yeh, Executive Editor at 20/20 Magazine

    • Will Claye, Olympic Athlete

    • Gary Black, Founder of Kuro and Black Optical

    • Drew Oppermann, VP of Sales at DITA Lancier

    Join us for an insightful discussion with some of the leading experts in sports vision, high-performance eyewear, and the growing influence of fashion in the space. This panel features Will Claye, Olympic medalist and athlete, representing DITA Lancier is Drew Oppermann, VP of Sales, and Gary Black, founder of Kuro Athletics, brings his expertise in performance-driven eyewear.

    Together, they will explore how cutting-edge eyewear technology is enhancing athletic performance, the intersection of luxury, function, and fashion, and the growing demand for sport-specific designs. With performance eyewear becoming a key accessory in luxury fashion, discover how these industry leaders are shaping eyewear not just for athletes, but for the fashion- conscious consumer. Learn about vision optimization, sustainable innovations, and the role of eyewear in everyday style.

  • Dr Fayiz Mahgoub, Sr Manager of Learning and Development Leonardo EssilorLuxottica, who will explore how this innovation is reshaping the industry and elevating the eyewear experience.

    • Karen Giberson - President & CEO of the Accessories Council and Editor-in-Chief of AC Magazine

    • Selima Salaun – Founder and Creative Director of Selima Optique

    Join Karen Giberson, President & CEO of the Accessories Council and Editor-in-Chief of AC Magazine, for an exclusive conversation with Selima Salaun, the creative force behind Selima Optique. In this engaging interview, Selima will delve into her vast archive of over 50,000 optical and sunglass frames, revealing the historical significance, artistry, and design inspirations behind some of the most iconic eyewear pieces. As a lifelong collector and industry trailblazer, she will share how her passion for preserving the legacy of eyewear has influenced her work and shaped the future of optical design. This is a must-attend discussion for optical brands and retailers looking to explore the intersection of fashion, history, and innovation in eyewear.